Tennessee
A New Era for the West Sandy Creek Watershed -
Tennessee Works with Landowners to Reduce Erosion
In response to a history of water quality problems in the western
embayments of Kentucky Lake Reservoir, the Tennessee Nonpoint Source Program
contracted with Austin Peay State University Center for Field Biology to work
with landowners to reduce erosion in the West Sandy Creek Watershed. This
project has involved multiple state, federal, and local agencies in the Henry
County area near Paris, Tennessee (about 70 miles west-northwest of
Nashville).
A total of 73 agricultural best management practices (BMPs) have been
implemented in West Sandy Creek. For example, 95 percent of the land used for
row crop agriculture is under no-till BMPs, and numerous roadside BMPs have
been installed in cooperation with the Henry County Road Commission. Over the
past five years, more than 20 in- stream BMP structures have been installed to
enrich biotic habitat and reduce sediment and organic particulates.
Water quality data indicate a significant improvement in water quality
since BMP installations. In-stream structures include log and rock wing
deflector weirs and artificial riffle systems.
Educational forums and demonstration projects have been stressed in all
project activities. Each year, several public meetings, workshops, and field
days are offered to raise public awareness and provide hands-on experience for
interested residents and professionals in the West Sandy Creek watershed and
surrounding areas.
CONTACT: Greg Upham
Nonpoint Source Program Tennessee Department of Agriculture
(615) 360-0690 |
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