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JAMES RIVER WATERSHED 319 PROJECT
Flowing through the heart of the Ozarks, the James River is currently listed on the 303d list (59 miles affected) and also ranked number 5 out of 66 watersheds on the Unified Watershed Assessment (UWA). Maintaining water quality is crucial to the watershed's economic well-being. Tourism, contributes billions of dollars into the area economy and supplies jobs for thousands of citizens each year. In 1998 alone, 6.2 million visitors came to Table Rock Lake to recreate, fish and enjoy its scenic beauty - tourists will not come to visit a green, murky, algae-filled lake.
The alarming fact is that water quality trends in the watershed are on the decline. The James River is threatened by many sources both point and non-point pollution. Point source contributions for phosphorous, are currently being addressed by state and local governments. This project will address the contribution of non-point sources.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Three 14 digit sub-watersheds in the James River Basin have been targeted for specific restoration activities other activities will be carried out in the entire James River Basin. "Upper Flat Creek", "Urban Target" and "Lower Finley/Elk Valley" are 3 sub-watershed selected. Several practices will be implemented in the agricultural watersheds (riparian corridor restoration, sinkhole protection, well plugging, and nutrient management). Additional practices will be implemented in the urban watershed (soil test rebates for lawns and septic tank maintenance assistance).
A qualified, trained Project Manager (NRCS staff) will spend 100% of their time on the restoration component of this project. The James River Basin Partnership will lead the technology transfer portion. Numerous water quality information, education and action activities will be carried out in the James River watershed by the JRBP and its members and friends.
OBJECTIVES
1. Aid restoration in three prioritized 14-digit HUC watersheds through the implementation of Best Management Practices.
2. Provide an effective information/education campaign to benefit the entire basin. This project will also continue the efforts to complete a watershed assessment based on scientific data.
PRODUCTS
Restoration goals (products) for this project include: 110,000 ft riparian forest buffer, 15 nutrient management plans, 400 urban soil tests, septic tank maintenance for 15 septic tanks, 15 wells and/or cisterns decommissioned, 25 sink holes protected, 5500 acres of planed grazing systems, 1100 acres of woodlands exclude from livestock, 750 acres of pasture improvement and/or establishment. A WEND model will be used to measure the impact of the restoration goals. In addition to the restoration goals we will produce many items for public education and awareness programs (newsletter, septic tank brochures and many public meetings of varying format). We will track the numbers of people reached by this efforts.
PROJECT SPONSOR
James River Basin Partnership
COOPERATING AGENCY
EPA/DNR
CONTACT
James River Basin Partnership
Holland Building, Suite 204
205 Park Central East
Springfield, MO 65806
Diana Sheridan
telephone: 417-836-8878
email: dls586g@smsu.edu
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