IDEM: Summary of Current 319(h) Grant Projects

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Nonpoint Source > Funding > Current Section 319/205j Projects > Summary of Current 319(h) Grant Projects Summary of Current 319(h) Grant Projects

Listed below are summaries of projects funded with Section 319(h) grants by the Indiana Department of Environmental Management that are actively working on researching, planning, and implementing solutions to nonpoint source pollution issues in watersheds across Indiana.

Additional details about these projects can be found through the EPA’s Nonpoint Source Grants Reporting and Tracking System (GRTS). GRTS is the primary tool for management and oversight of state Nonpoint Source (NPS) Management Programs under Section 319 of the Clean Water Act. The U.S. EPA recently added new tools to the GRTS database to enable the public to search for information about NPS pollution control projects. IDEM has provided a brief tutorial with more information on accessing and using the U.S. EPA GRTS website.

FFY 2011 Funds

Little Calumet River East Branch WMP (EDS# A305-2-11)

Save the Dunes Conservation Fund will develop a watershed management plan (WMP) for the Little Calumet River East Branch watershed, Hydrologic Unit Code (HUC) 0404000104, conduct water quality monitoring to establish baseline data and identify potential contributing areas, and participate in education and outreach efforts for this watershed.

Indiana Clean Lakes Program (EDS# A305-2-25)

Indiana University will conduct an assessment of Indiana lakes and reservoirs to determine water quality and track trends in lake eutrophication levels, train and support a corps of volunteer lake monitors, and conduct education and outreach on lake and watershed nonpoint source pollution issues. Education/outreach efforts will include publishing and distributing the quarterly Water Column newsletter and maintaining and updating the Indiana Clean Lakes Program web site.

Plummer Creek WMP (EDS# A305-2-13)

The Greene County SWCD will produce a WMP for the Plummer Creek watershed, HUC 0512020203, conduct a monitoring program to develop a baseline and assist with the development of the watershed management plan, and conduct an education and outreach program for stakeholders designed to bring about behavioral changes that will lead to reduced nonpoint source pollution in the watershed including field days, workshops, newsletters, press releases, and public meetings.

Partners & Projects Protecting the White River Implementation Project (EDS# A305-2-15)

The Upper White River Watershed Alliance will develop, promote, and implement a cost-share program for BMPs such as cover crops, riparian buffers, rain barrels, rain gardens, and others that address the water quality concerns outlined in the Lower Fall Creek, Cool Creek, Stony Creek, Morse Reservoir/Cicero Creek, and Geist Reservoir/Upper Fall Creek watershed management plans. The Alliance will also conduct an education and outreach program designed to bring about behavioral changes and encourage BMP implementation that will lead to reduced nonpoint source pollution in the watershed including giving presentations, distributing a cost-share program brochure, and assisting the Indianapolis Museum of Art with the implementation of the FLOW project to enhance public education and awareness of the Upper White River watershed.

Upper St. Joseph River Watershed Project (EDS# A305-2-16)

The St. Joseph River Watershed Initiative will produce a WMP for the Upper St. Joseph watershed, HUCs 0410000301, 0410000302, 0410000303 and 0410000304. The Initiative will conduct a water quality monitoring program to help determine critical areas and nonpoint pollution sources. When the WMP is complete, the Initiative will develop and promote a cost-share program to implement BMPs such as cover crop, conservation tillage, manure management, nutrient and pest management, rain gardens, bioretention, and others that address the water quality concerns outlined in the Upper St. Joseph WMP. The Initiative will also conduct an education and outreach program designed to bring about behavioral changes that will lead to reduced nonpoint source pollution in the watershed including disseminating a cost-share pamphlet to landowners, conducting workshops and field days, distributing SWCD newsletters, and maintaining a webpage on the SJRWI website to keep the public up to date on the project and its activities.

Upper Maumee WMP and Implementation (EDS# A305-2-21)

The Allen County SWCD will produce a WMP for the entire Upper Maumee watershed, HUC 04100005. The District will conduct a monitoring program to help with the development of the WMP. Once the WMP is complete, the District will develop, promote and implement a cost-share program to landowners within the Indiana portion of the watershed to implement best management practices (BMPs) such as conservation tillage, two-stage ditches, cover crops, rain barrels, rain gardens, pervious pavement, and others that address the water quality concerns outlined in the Upper Maumee WMP. The District will also conduct an education and outreach program designed to bring about behavioral changes that will lead to reduced nonpoint source pollution in the watershed including conducting workshops and field days, submitting press releases to the media, developing newsletter articles, and maintaining an Upper Maumee River Watershed Project webpage housed on the Upper Maumee Watershed Partnership’s website.

Deer Creek-Sugar Creek WMP & Implementation (EDS# A305-2-22)

The Carroll County SWCD will develop a WMP for the Deer Creek – Sugar Creek watershed, HUCs 0512010504, 0512010505, and 0512010506. The District will conduct a monitoring program to establish a baseline of water quality for the development of the WMP. Once the WMP is complete, the District will develop, promote, and implement a cost-share program to implement BMPs such as cover crops, riparian buffers, livestock exclusion, and others that address the water quality concerns outlined in the Deer Creek – Sugar Creek WMP. An education and outreach program designed to bring about behavioral changes that will lead to reduced nonpoint source pollution in the watershed will be implemented including public meetings, field days, workshops, and press releases about the project to the media.

Two-Stage Ditch Implementation (EDS# A305-2-8)

The Nature Conservancy will promote the two-stage ditch as a best management practice to improve water quality and instream habitat, and construct at least eight segments of two-stage ditch throughout the state to increase accessibility to the practice. TNC will conduct an education and outreach program to encourage two-stage ditch implementation, including implementing two-stage ditches in areas of the state where the practice would be most applicable, conducting workshops and field days at two-stage ditches, submitting press releases to the media highlighting the two-stage ditch construction projects and field days, and updating the website regularly with information on two-stage ditches and locations where sites have been constructed.

Region of the Great Bend of the Wabash River WMP Implementation (EDS# A-305-2-6)

The Wabash River Enhancement Corporation (WREC) will develop, promote and implement a cost-share program for BMPs such as riparian buffers, cover crops, nutrient management, livestock exclusion, conservation tillage, rain gardens, rain barrels, green roofs, pervious pavement, and others that address the water quality concerns outlined in the Region of the Great Bend of the Wabash River WMP. WREC will conduct a monitoring program, at the two existing stations on the Wabash River during years two and three of the project, to determine loads and changes in loads across the project’s reaches. They will also monitor the paired watersheds within the established locations to develop a statistically significant relationship that demonstrates change in water quality. In addition, WREC will implement a comprehensive education and outreach program designed to bring about behavioral changes and encourage BMP implementation that will lead to reduced nonpoint source pollution in the watershed. They will maintain the project’s website and update the website regularly.

Flatrock-Haw WMP Implementation (EDS# A305-2-7)

The Bartholomew County SWCD will implement the Flatrock-Haw Creek WMP by developing, promoting and implementing a cost-share program for BMPs such as nutrient management, cover crops, livestock stream exclusion, rotational grazing, pasture/hayland planting, heavy use area protection, waste management utilization, conservation tillage, conservation cover, drainage water management, rain barrels, rain gardens, permeable pavement, and others that address the water quality concerns outlined in the WMP. The District will conduct a monitoring program to enhance baseline data, conduct trend analysis, and increase community involvement and public awareness about the project and water monitoring. The District will also conduct an education and outreach program designed to bring about behavioral changes and encourage BMP implementation that will lead to reduced nonpoint source pollution in the watershed. The program will include newsletters, news releases to local media, brochures, and field days or workshops.

FFY 2010 Funds

Capacity Building and Public Support for Watershed Groups and SWCDs (EDS# A305-10-64)

The Indiana Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts (IASWCD) will develop needs assessment tools and distribute them to watershed groups and all 92 Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs). The tools will be used to determine the need for training and support in areas that will help build capacity for the group. The IASWCD will evaluate the responses received and develop and conduct no less than two training workshops each year based on the needs identified. They will also conduct an outreach and education program to increase public awareness and support of nonpoint pollution reduction projects and clean water initiatives including: publishing the IASWCD Weekly Update e-newsletter, submitting releases to the media regarding watershed and water quality issues, promoting recognition programs to SWCDs and watershed groups, and acknowledging successful watershed practices through means such as the Annual River Friendly Farmer and District Showcase awards. In addition, the IASWCD will assist IDEM with conducting no less than two Watershed Network Sessions each year.

Watershed Leadership Academy (EDS# A305-10-66)

Purdue University will once again recruit watershed leaders from diverse backgrounds and conduct the Indiana Watershed Leadership Academy (IWLA) course at least two times during the term of the grant agreement. Purdue will award graduates of the Academy with a Professional Certificate in Watershed Management from Purdue University. Each Academy course will combine two face-to-face training sessions with distance education. Purdue will update lesson topics to meet watershed leader needs; develop, prepare, and distribute materials; integrate interactive multi-media teaching tools and examples into modules for enhancing the learning process; manage an interactive web site; hold at least six yearly interactive online meetings to enhance community and discuss learning; review assignments; and provide personal feedback. In addition, Purdue will develop a minimum of twenty-four one hour webinars on topics of relevance to watershed managers. Purdue will tape the best aspects of the live webinars and provide them as on-demand web-based video learning for the public.

Two-Stage Ditch Outreach and Technology Transfer (EDS# A305-10-84)

The Nature Conservancy (TNC) will conduct an education and outreach program to promote two-stage ditches as a best management practice (BMP) for nonpoint source pollution reduction. Target audiences will include county surveyors, landowners, and groups active in watershed management. The program will include: meeting with county surveyors in the target area to discuss two-stage ditch technology, working to secure letters of support from at least twelve counties including potential locations for installation of a two-stage ditch, hosting workshops located strategically across Indiana to help the target audiences understand how two-stage ditches are constructed and how they perform, and meeting with five community groups working on watershed management. A media relations program will be conducted utilizing a wide variety of tools for engaging the public and target audiences and providing information on two-stage ditch technology including: a webpage focused on the two-stage ditch; Powerpoint presentations that provide an overview of two-stage ditch technology and are targeted to county surveyors, community organizations, and landowners; and press releases or articles to educate farmers, landowners, community members and local officials.

Middle St. Joseph River WMP Development and Implementation (EDS# A305-10-65)

The St. Joseph River Watershed Initiative (Initiative) will produce a watershed management plan (WMP) for the Middle St. Joseph River watershed, Hydrologic Unit Code 0410000305. A steering committee of local stakeholders will be formed and will meet quarterly to guide the development of the WMP. Once the WMP is complete, the Initiative will conduct a cost-share program to implement best management practices (BMPs) such as cover crops, conservation tillage, nutrient and pest management, livestock exclusion fencing and alternative watering systems, rain gardens, and others that address the water quality concerns outlined in the Middle St. Joseph River WMP. A chemical and biological water quality monitoring program will be conducted to help with the development of the WMP. An education and outreach program designed to bring about behavioral changes that lead to reduced nonpoint source pollution in the watershed will also be conducted. The program will include: field days; winter meetings; public meetings; an educational display/exhibit that describes the watershed and the watershed planning process; a brochure and fact sheets on topics such as watershed planning and water quality pollutants; information to local SWCD newsletters, extension service newsletters or local/regional newspapers about the project; and a water quality social indicators awareness survey to stakeholders in the watershed, with the results used to help plan, implement and evaluate NPS projects.

Silver Creek Watershed Improvement Project (EDS# A305-10-80)

The Clark County SWCD is implementing the Silver Creek Watershed Management Plan (WMP) by conducting a cost-share program to implement best management practices (BMPs) in the watershed such as livestock exclusion fencing, cover crops, vegetative buffers, and others that address the water quality concerns outlined in the Silver Creek WMP. The District will install livestock exclusion fencing, an alternative watering system, and a rain garden as demonstration projects to educate the public on improving water quality through BMPs. The District will also conduct a monitoring program for trend analysis. An education and outreach program designed to bring about behavioral changes and encourage BMP implementation in the watershed will be conducted including Steering Committee meetings, a brochure on proper septic system maintenance, news releases to the local media, newsletters to watershed stakeholders addressing nonpoint source pollution and its impact on water quality, a fertilizer and pesticide brochure, a nonpoint source website, and field days or workshops to promote the BMPs at the demonstration sites.

Hogan Creek Watershed Project (EDS# A305-10-85)

The Dearborn County SWCD will implement the Hogan Creek Watershed Management Plan (WMP) by conducting a cost-share program to implement best management practices (BMPs) such as cover crops, pasture/hayland improvement, livestock exclusion, alternative watering systems, buffers, and others that address the water quality concerns outlined in the Hogan Creek WMP. The District will also conduct an education and outreach program designed to bring about behavioral changes and encourage BMP implementation in the watershed including field days or workshops; flyers, pamphlets, newsletters, press releases and fact sheets which promote cost share programs; field days and watershed events; classroom presentations to educate primary school students about the importance of preventing nonpoint source pollution and the benefits of improving water quality in the watershed; a teacher’s workshop; and a septic system management workshop to educate homeowners on the importance of septic system care.

Pigeon River WMP Development and Implementation (EDS# A305-10-86)

The LaGrange County SWCD will produce a watershed management plan (WMP) for the Pigeon River watershed, Hydrologic Unit Codes (HUC) 040500011008, 040500011009, 040500011010, 040500011101, 040500011102, 040500011103, 040500011104, 040500011105, 040500011106, and 040500011107. A steering committee of local stakeholders will be formed and will meet quarterly to guide the development of the WMP. Once the WMP is complete, a cost-share program will be conducted to implement best management practices (BMPs) such as manure management plans, comprehensive nutrient management plans, and other practices that address the water quality concerns outlined in the Pigeon River WMP. The District will conduct a monitoring program to establish a baseline of water quality and help isolate problematic locations for BMP installation. An education and outreach program designed to bring about behavioral changes that lead to reduced nonpoint source pollution in the watershed will also be conducted and will include: a field day and a workshop to educate the public on water quality testing and land use problems and solutions; a brochure educating stakeholders about the watershed and WMP development and implementation; a brochure educating stakeholders about water quality issues and the cost-share program, annual media releases; and meeting with Amish Bishops on a quarterly basis to provide progress on WMP development and BMP implementation.

Mill Creek – Blue River Watershed Project (EDS# A305-10-87)

The White River RC&D will produce a watershed management plan (WMP) for the Mill Creek – Blue River watershed, Hydrologic Unit Code 0514010407. The RC&D will form a steering committee of local stakeholders that will meet quarterly to guide the development of the WMP. The RC&D will also conduct a monitoring program to gather reliable baseline data to understand and prioritize watershed problems. An education and outreach program designed to bring about behavioral changes that lead to reduced nonpoint source pollution in the watershed will be conducted including: a brochure or flyer, media release, and watershed newsletter quarterly to increase public understanding and support for a WMP; stakeholder meetings; field days; presentations to local officials to solicit input in the planning process and to address the current state of the project and its future plans; a storm drain marking event and stream clean-up day each year; volunteer water quality monitoring each month for two years using Hoosier Riverwatch methods; classroom presentations each year to educate primary school students about the importance of preventing nonpoint source pollution and the benefits of improving water quality in their watershed.

Busseron Creek Watershed Implementation (EDS# A305-1-2)

The Sullivan County SWCD will implement the Busseron Creek Watershed Management Plan (WMP) by conducting a cost-share program to implement best management practices (BMPs) such as conservation tillage, pasture and hay planting, livestock exclusion, buffers and filter strips, irrigation management, rain gardens, and others that address the water quality concerns outlined in the Busseron Creek WMP. The District will install a demonstration project to educate the public on improving water quality through BMPs. The District will also conduct a monitoring program to detect changes in water quality as well as to further refine critical areas to effectively implement BMPs, and to identify trends in pollutant loads. An education and outreach program designed to bring about behavioral changes and encourage BMP implementation will be conducted including: updating the current Busseron Creek Watershed website; conducting Technical and Planning Committee meetings at least quarterly; distributing an electronic newsletter about the watershed and nonpoint source pollution at least quarterly; submitting media releases to inform stakeholders about meetings and updates; conducting a septic workshop; conducting a workshop on rain gardens, lakeside landscaping, or other urban BMP; and hosting a field day to showcase the demonstration project.

FFY 2009 Funds

Capacity Building and Public Support for Watershed Groups and SWCDs (EDS# A305-10-64)

Watershed Leadership Academy (EDS# A305-10-66)

Two-Stage Ditch Outreach and Technology Transfer (EDS# A305-10-84)

Middle St. Joseph River WMP Development and Implementation (EDS# A305-10-65)

Silver Creek Watershed Improvement Project (EDS# A305-10-80)

Hogan Creek Watershed Project (EDS# A305-10-85)

Pigeon River WMP Development and Implementation (EDS# A305-10-86)

Mill Creek – Blue River Watershed Project (EDS# A305-10-87)

Busseron Creek Watershed Implementation (EDS# A305-1-2)

Water Quality Improvement in the Upper Tippecanoe/Grassy Creek Watershed (9-272)

The Tippecanoe Watershed Foundation (TWF) is developing and implementing a cost-share program for best management practices (BMPs) that reduce nonpoint source pollution in the watershed such as conservation tillage, livestock exclusion, wetland restoration, riparian buffers, and 2-stage ditches, that address the water quality concerns outlined in the Upper Tippecanoe River Watershed Management Plan (WMP). A water quality monitoring program will be conducted including long-term trend monitoring using a tributary approach throughout the watershed, pre-BMP implementation monitoring, and post-BMP implementation monitoring for projects that have been implemented over the past 12 years. TWF is also conducting an education and outreach program designed to bring about behavioral changes as they relate to animal waste management, fertilizer use, erosion control, no-till and conservation tillage practices, septic system maintenance, ditch cleaning, zoning, land use planning, and construction practices. The TWF will develop and distribute a survey throughout the watershed to understand the awareness, attitudes, capacity, and behaviors of residents of the watershed. The survey shall follow the EPA Region V Social Indicator framework.

St. Marys River WMP Implementation (9-274)

The Allen County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) is developing and implementing a cost-share program for BMPs such as conservation buffers, filter strips, cover crops, and nutrient, pest, and manure management that address the water quality concerns outlined in the St. Marys River WMP. The SWCD will conduct a water quality monitoring program to determine the effectiveness of the WMP implementation project. The SWCD is also conducting an education and outreach program designed to bring about behavioral changes and encourage BMP implementation in the watershed including field days to showcase BMPs, workshops to educate the public on water quality concerns and promote water quality conservation practices, brochures describing water quality concerns and conservation practices, newsletters, and press releases to the local media. The SWCD will develop and distribute a survey throughout the watershed to understand the awareness, attitudes, capacity, and behaviors of residents of the project watershed. The survey shall follow the EPA Region V Social Indicator framework. The survey is a follow-up survey from the initial survey conducted with Purdue University in 2008.

Pigeon Creek WMP Implementation Phase 2 (9-275)

The Steuben County SWCD is developing and implementing a cost-share program for BMPs such as conservation buffers, a constructed wetland, rain gardens, and green roofs that address the water quality concerns outlined in the Pigeon Creek WMP. The SWCD will conduct a monitoring program to determine the fate and source of pollutants in the watershed and to guide future sampling and/or remediation of point and nonpoint source pollution. They will also conduct an education and outreach program designed to bring about behavioral changes and encourage BMP implementation including: presentations to schools and others on water quality issues, public meetings, press releases, signs at highly visible BMP sites throughout the watershed, workshops on water quality issues, and a brochure regarding septic maintenance.

Bean Blossom Watershed Implementation Project (9-276)

The Monroe County SWCD is implementing a cost-share program for BMPs such as rain gardens, rain barrels, cover crops, livestock exclusion fencing, buffer strips, and others that address the water quality concerns outlined in the Bean Blossom Creek WMP. Two innovative BMPs will also be implemented in the watershed as demonstration projects to educate the public on improving water quality through BMPs. These BMPs will be located on public land or an area where the public has access on a regular basis; in a critical area identified in the WMP; and used/showcased as part of an education and outreach effort. The SWCD will conduct a monitoring program to determine if the quality of the water within the Bean Blossom watershed has improved over the past several years of the WMP. An education and outreach program will also be conducted to help bring about behavioral changes and encourage BMP implementation. This will include outdoor field days, public meetings, presentations, newsletters, and workshops on NPS pollution. A survey will be conducted throughout the watershed to understand the awareness, attitudes, capacity, and behaviors of residents of the project watershed. The survey will follow the EPA Region V Social Indicator framework. Survey data will be used to develop descriptive statistics of the target audience to inform planning and future implementations efforts.

Central Muscatatuck Watershed Project (9-277)

The Historic Hoosier Hills RC&D is developing and implementing a cost-share program for BMPs such as conservation tillage, pasture/hayland improvement, livestock exclusion, riparian buffers, and others that address the water quality concerns outlined in the Central Muscatatuck River WMP. The RC&D will also conduct an education and outreach program designed to bring about behavioral changes and encourage BMP implementation. The Program will include field tours or field days to educate watershed stakeholders about the cost-share program, workshops to educate watershed stakeholders about septic systems, river or lake clean-ups, a monitoring program for educational purposes based on Hoosier Riverwatch methods, public meetings, workshops to provide teachers information on developing water quality and nonpoint source pollution curriculum, signs to recognize landowners who participated in the cost-share program, a brochure to promote the cost-share program, news releases to the local media, articles to partner newsletters, and radio announcements.

Big Walnut/Deer Creek Watershed Implementation (9-278)

The Putnam County SWCD is developing and implementing a cost-share program for BMPs such as wetland restoration, riparian buffers, nutrient management, exclusionary fencing/alternative watering systems for livestock, and suburban/urban stormwater practices (above and beyond municipal separate storm sewer systems [MS4] requirements) that address the water quality concerns outlined in the Big Walnut-Deer Creek WMP. The SWCD will also implement two BMPs as demonstration projects. These BMPs will be located on public land or an area where the public has access on a regular basis; in a critical area identified in the WMP; and will be used/showcased as part of an education and outreach effort. A monitoring program will be conducted to help isolate and/or identify pollution sources in priority subwatersheds. The SWCD will conduct an education and outreach program designed to bring about behavioral changes and encourage BMP implementation including public meetings, a Project WET and a Hoosier Riverwatch workshop, news releases to local media, a field day exhibiting the demonstration projects, educational signs for the demonstration sites, a targeted septic outreach program with a focus on realtor, homeowner, and neighborhood education of septic system maintenance. Finally, a survey will be developed and distributed throughout the watershed to understand the awareness, attitudes, capacity, and behaviors of watershed residents. Survey data will be used to develop descriptive statistics of the target audience to inform planning and future implementation efforts. The survey will follow the EPA Region V Social Indicator framework.

Upper Wabash River WMP Implementation (9-282)

The Upper Wabash River Basin Commission is developing and implementing a cost-share program for BMPs such as conservation tillage, riparian buffers, cover crops, and others that address the water quality concerns outlined in the Upper Wabash River WMP. The Commission will conduct a monitoring program to evaluate trends in water quality, as well as educate watershed stakeholders. They will also conduct an education and outreach program designed to bring about behavioral changes and encourage BMP implementation including a brochure advertising the cost-share program to landowners and operators, a workshop to promote the cost-share program and BMPs, brochures addressing residential water quality topics, news releases to the local media, field days to educate watershed stakeholders about water quality impairments and BMPs that improve water quality.

Eagle Creek Watershed Implementation Project (10-1)

Indiana University (IU) is addressing agricultural and urban nonpoint source water pollution concerns in the Eagle Creek watershed by implementing the Eagle Creek WMP. IU will develop and implement a cost-share program to implement BMPs such as rain gardens, swales, two-stage ditches, and conservation tillage that address the water quality concerns outlined in the Eagle Creek WMP. They will promote the cost-share program and identify projects in part through an education and outreach program including watershed committee meetings, a quarterly watershed newsletter, news releases, agricultural field days, urban field days, and workshops. IU is also conducting a monitoring program to document trends in the watershed and provide information to educational programs.

FFY 2008 Funds

Indian Creek Watershed Project (9-91)

Historic Hoosier Hills RC&D will implement the Indian Creek WMP by developing and implementing a cost-share program for BMPs that address the water quality concerns outlined in the WMP. The Grantee will also provide public education and outreach and conduct water quality monitoring.

Salt Creek Watershed Cost-Share and Outreach Program (8-189)

Save the Dunes Conservation Fund will implement the Salt Creek WMP by developing and implementing a cost-share program for BMPs in the Salt Creek Watershed. BMPs may include conservation design, low impact development (LID), and traditional agricultural BMPs that address the water quality concerns outlined in the Salt Creek WMP. The Grantee will also conduct a public education and outreach program and water quality monitoring.

White River Watershed Project (8-190)

Delaware County SWCD will install BMPs in the White River watershed in accordance with the goals set forth in the White River WMP. The BMPs will be placed in the Buck Creek, Killbuck/Mud Creek, and Prairie Creek subwatersheds. In addition to these BMPs, a WMP will be developed for Truitt Ditch and Muncie Creek sub-watersheds located within the greater Upper White River Watershed. BMPs will be placed in these subwatersheds upon approval of the WMP. A public education and outreach program will be conducted as well as water quality monitoring.

Wabash River: Lafayette – West Lafayette Reach WMP (9-54)

The Wabash River Enhancement Corporation (WREC) will produce a WMP for the Middle Wabash-Little Vermillion Basin. During the planning process, WREC will conduct an education and outreach program designed to bring about behavioral changes that will lead to reduced nonpoint source pollution in the watershed. They will also conduct an extensive water quality monitoring program to identify and target the most critical sources of pollution in the watershed, and a social behaviors monitoring program to help with planning and future implementation efforts. A coordinator will meet with local leaders in the community to educate and influence policies to benefit water quality.

Tanners Creek Watershed Project (9-56)

Dearborn County SWCD is implementing the Tanners Creek WMP by developing a cost-share program to install BMPs that address the water quality concerns outlined in the WMP. An education and outreach program is being designed to bring about behavioral changes and encourage BMP implementation that will lead to reduced nonpoint source pollution in the watershed.

South Laughery Creek Watershed (9-57)

Historic Hoosier Hills RC&D will implement the South Laughery Creek WMP by implementing a cost-share program to install BMPs that address the water quality concerns outlined in the WMP. The Grantee will also conduct an education and outreach program designed to bring about behavioral changes and encourage BMP implementation that will lead to reduced nonpoint source pollution in the watershed.

Little Duck & Lilly Creek Implementation Project (9-89)

Madison County SWCD will implement the Little Duck/Lilly Creek WMP by implementing a cost-share program for BMPs that address the water quality concerns outlined in the Little Duck/Lilly Creek WMP. The Grantee will also conduct a public education and outreach program and water quality monitoring in the watershed.

Middle Eel River Watershed Initiative (9-90)

Manchester College will develop a WMP for the Middle Eel River. Once the WMP has been approved by the State, the grantee will begin implementing BMPs in identified critical areas of the watershed to improve water quality. The Grantee will also develop and execute a monitoring program to assess water quality before and during BMP implementation to compare with water quality data collected after BMP implementation. A public education and outreach program will also be conducted.

FFY 2007 Funds

Development and Demonstration of Outcomes-Based Evaluation Framework for the Indiana Nonpoint Source Program (7-186)

Purdue is working in cooperation with other states, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5, and the Regional Water Quality Leadership Team to continue the development and testing of a social indicators framework for the purpose of assessing the impacts of watershed planning and implementation projects on social outcomes identified by the regional team. Purdue will also provide support to IDEM staff in the development of the environmental indicator framework. Indicators identified will be used to measure changes in hydrology, water quality, and biological communities where needed. Purdue will develop a 2-tiered set of indicators, including a core indicator set that shall be used by all 319 projects collecting environmental data, and a supplemental indicator set to measure water quality outcomes in a scientifically-defensible way.

Little Elkhart River WMP Update (7-182)

The LaGrange County SWCD is producing a watershed management plan (WMP) for four 14-digit hydrologic unit code (HUC) watersheds within the Little Elkhart River watershed: 04050001140040, 04050001140050, 04050001140060, and 04050001140070. This WMP may be an addendum to the previous plan completed for three (3) subwatersheds in the Little Elkhart River watershed: HUCs 04050001140010, 04050001140020 and 04050001140030. A monitoring program will be conducted to establish baseline conditions and help with the development of the WMP. The District will also develop and implement a cost-share program to implement best management practices outlined in the Little Elkhart River Watershed Management Plan. Public education/outreach activities will include a brochure, field days, pasture walks, workshops, and steering committee meetings.

Kessinger Ditch WMP Implementation (7-183)

The Knox County SWCD is developing and implementing a cost-share program for BMPs outlined in the Kessinger Ditch WMP. BMPs may include no-till, cover crops, riparian buffers, wetland restoration, livestock exclusion, alternative watering systems, and nutrient management plans. A water quality monitoring program will also be conducted to help monitor the success of the project. Public education/outreach activities will include public meetings, field days, mailings to watershed residents on proper septic maintenance, press releases to the media, and presentations to school students.

St. Marys WMP and Implementation (7-184)

The Allen County SWCD is producing a WMP for the Indiana portion of the St. Marys watershed, HUC 04100004. A monitoring program will be conducted to supplement data collected for the TMDL to aid in the development of the WMP. Once complete, the district will begin by implementing a cost-share program for BMPs outlined in the St. Marys WMP. An education and outreach program will also be implemented and will include quarterly public steering committee meetings, press releases to the media, newsletters, a brochure on proper operation and maintenance of septic systems, and field days.

Busseron Watershed Planning & Implementation (7-187)

The Sullivan County SWCD is producing a WMP for the Busseron Creek watershed, HUC 05120111160. A steering committee of local stakeholders will be formed to guide the development of the WMP. A monitoring program will be conducted to investigate water quality concerns in the watershed. The district will also implement an outreach program to educate the public about the project and encourage behavior change and better environmental decisions. The program will include field days or workshops, newsletters, educational material about watershed management to schools, civic groups and other organizations, and information to the local media. When the WMP is complete, the District will implement a cost-share program to install BMPs in critical areas in the watershed as identified in the plan.

Big Blue River WMP (8-131)

The Henry County SWCD is producing a WMP for the Big Blue River watershed, HUC 0512020401. The District will conduct a physical, chemical, and biological monitoring program based on Hoosier Riverwatch methods in the watershed. Education and outreach activities will be conducted to raise public awareness and participation in the Big Blue River Watershed Project including public meetings; Steering Committee meetings; press releases; stream clean-ups to improve aquatic habitat, create awareness and encourage public involvement in the project; newsletters; a field day to showcase existing best management practices; and educational events targeted towards classrooms, services clubs, and the general public that cover topics such as septic systems, runoff sources, and water quality monitoring.

South Fork Wildcat Creek/Blinn Ditch/Kilmore Creek Project (8-54)

The Clinton County SWCD is developing and implementing a cost-share program for BMPs, such as conservation tillage, filter strips, riparian buffers, rain gardens, livestock exclusion, and others, that address the natural resource concerns outlined in the South Fork Wildcat Creek-Blinn Ditch and Kilmore Creek-Boyle's Ditch WMP. BMPs will be implemented in critical areas as described in the WMP. The District is also conducting an outreach program to educate the public about the project and encourage participation. This will include information to the media, mailings to watershed landowners, a booth at each Clinton County Fair and SWCD Annual Meeting, field days, steering committee meetings, information on septic system maintenance, public meetings, and programs designed to educate students about water quality.

Little Vermillion Watershed Project (8-55)

The Vermillion County SWCD is producing a WMP for the Little Vermillion River watershed, HUCs 05120108140040, 050, and 060. A steering committee of local stakeholders will be formed to guide the development of the plan. A monitoring program will be conducted to identify nonpoint sources of pollution and determine critical areas in the watershed. When the WMP is complete, the District will implement a cost-share program to reduce sediment, nutrient, and E. coli loads in the watershed using BMPs outlined in the WMP. An outreach and education program will also be conducted to educate the public about the project and raise awareness of water quality issues and best management practices. This program will include newsletters, public meetings, press releases to local media, a septic workshop focusing on maintenance and other septic issues, and no-till field days.

Whitewater River Initiative (8-56)

The Wayne County SWCD is implementing a cost-share program for BMPs, such as filter strips, livestock exclusion, and others, that address the natural resource concerns outlined in the Middle Fork of the East Fork of the Whitewater River WMP. BMPs will be implemented in critical areas as described in the Plan. The District is also producing a WMP for the West Fork Whitewater River Watersheds (HUCs 05080003010; 05080003020; 05080003030). A West Fork Steering Committee will be established and meetings will be conducted to guide the development of the WMP. Education and outreach activities will be conducted to raise public awareness and participation in the Whitewater River Initiative Project including West Fork and East Fork workshops or field days about nonpoint source pollution and other related water quality topics, Middle Fork Reservoir Clean-ups, West Fork Clean-ups, brochures, public meetings, newsletters, and press releases. A physical, chemical, and biological monitoring program will also be conducted in both watersheds.

Hogan Creek Watershed Project (8-93)

The Dearborn County SWCD is developing and implementing a cost-share program for BMPs, such as filter strips, livestock exclusion, and others, that address the natural resource concerns outlined in the Hogan Creek WMP. BMPs will be implemented in critical areas as described in the WMP. The District is also conducting education and outreach activities to raise public awareness and participation in the Hogan Creek Watershed Project, including newsletters to watershed residents and/or news releases to the local media, field days, workshops, classroom presentations to educate primary school students about nonpoint source pollution reduction and water quality, presentations to update local groups and officials on the progress of the project, and meetings with the Hogan Creek Steering Committee.

Little Blue River Watershed Project (8-94)

The Rush County SWCD is implementing the Little Blue River WMP by implementing a cost-share program for BMPs, such as conservation tillage, cover crops, livestock exclusion, and others, that address the natural resource concerns outlined in the Little Blue River WMP. BMPs will be implemented in critical areas as described in the Plan. Education and outreach activities will be conducted to raise public awareness and participation in the Little Blue River Watershed Project, including educational programs for youth organizations, brochures, field days or workshops to promote BMPs, a river clean-up, press releases, public meetings, and steering committee meetings. A physical, chemical, and biological monitoring program will be conducted to identify trends and estimate contaminant loads in the Little Blue River watershed.

East Fork White River Watershed Projects Continued Implementation in Clifty Creek Watershed and Management Planning for the Haw Creek Watershed (8-97)

The Bartholomew County SWCD is implementing a cost-share program BMPs such as conservation tillage, nutrient and pesticide management, cover crops, livestock stream exclusion, rotational grazing, and others that address the natural resource concerns outlined in the Clifty Creek WMP. BMPs will be implemented in critical areas as described in the Plan. The District is also producing a WMP for the Haw Creek Watershed, HUC 05120205060. Education and outreach activities will be conducted to raise public awareness and participation in the East Fork White River Watershed Projects, including Steering Committee meetings; public meetings; new and existing educational programs such as Ag Day, Water Quality Week, the Creek Lab and the Outdoor Lab; education at venues such as schools and fairs; newsletters; news releases; and radio public service announcements. The District will also be conducting a chemical monitoring program in the Clifty Creek and Haw Creek watersheds.

FFY 2006 Funds

Indiana Watershed Promotion/TMDL Support (6-170)

The Indiana Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts is providing a Watershed Information Specialist (Specialist) position that serves as a liaison with IDEM Office of Water Quality staff to help promote watershed management efforts throughout the State. The Specialist will meet regularly with the IDEM Watershed Specialists, Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) and Nonpoint Source (NPS) staff, and the Indiana watershed workgroup. The Specialist' tasks include:

developing presentations on the watershed planning, implementation and TMDL process;
identifying groups with potential interest in developing watershed projects in 303(d) listed watersheds and contacting them to provide information;
providing media relations for the IDEM Watershed Specialists including publishing quarterly Watershed Update newsletters and weekly SWCD Update newsletters in electronic format that promote watershed activity success stories and provide general watershed management information; and,
providing needed tools for use by the Watershed Specialists and others.

Lower Fall Creek Watershed Improvement Project (7-3)

The Marion County SWCD is producing a WMP for the Lower Fall Creek watershed; HUCs 05120201110-010, 020, 030, 040, 050, 060. The District is also constructing a comprehensive Geographic Information System (GIS) for the watershed that will include land use, streams, 303(d) listed streams, and monitoring site location data. Monitoring will be conducted to identify the location of water quality problems in the watershed. The District will conduct a public education and outreach program consisting of steering committee and stakeholder meetings to gain input into the development of the plan, workshops focused on issues specific to the Lower Fall Creek Watershed, an educational brochure, newsletters focusing on issues specific to the Lower Fall Creek WMP, and demonstrations of BMPs for addressing the water quality problems identified in the plan.

Patoka Lake Source Water Protection Plan (7-157)

The Patoka Lake Regional Water and Sewer District with its partners is implementing the Source Water Protection Plan for the Patoka Lake Watershed. Cost-sharing on management measures to improve water quality will be available to landowners in this important drinking-source water basin. BMP opportunities exist with livestock production, pasture land, construction sites and row-crop agriculture. Public meetings, field days to demonstrate BMPs, clean-up events, volunteer water quality monitoring training and septic system maintenance education will be part of the project.

Owen County Watershed Initiative (6-171)

The Owen County SWCD is developing a WMP for the Big/Limestone Creek, Mill/Little Mill Creek, and Fall/McCormick's Creek watersheds; HUCs 05120202020010, 05120202020020 and 05120202020030. A monitoring program will be conducted in the watersheds to establish baseline water quality. The District will also conduct an education and outreach program consisting of public stakeholder meetings to inform the public of data and gain as much input as possible; displays to promote the project; public presentations; a website; mailings and group email notifications; and articles to the media.

Silver Creek Watershed Improvement (6-172)

The Clark County SWCD is developing a WMP for the Silver Creek watershed. A monitoring program will be conducted to establish a baseline and determine existing water quality problems. The District is also conducting an education and outreach program consisting of demonstrating riparian buffer enhancement plantings and other water quality improvement activities; conducting quarterly steering committee meetings to gather input into the development of the plan; distributing an urban riparian buffer brochure; conducting annual volunteer stream sweep activities; developing a watershed awareness display for use at public events, and conducting field days or workshops to educate landowners about BMPs and water quality, including a field day at the demonstration of riparian buffer enhancement plantings.

Pigeon Creek Headwaters Project (7-135)

The Gibson County SWCD is implementing the Highland Pigeon WMP by developing and implementing a cost-share program to reduce sediment and nutrient loading to the Smith Fork, Halfmoon Ditch, and Snake Run watersheds using BMPs including filter strips, waterways, grade stabilization structures, riparian buffers and equipment modifications for nutrient and crop residue control. The District is also conducting an education and outreach program consisting of a field day to showcase the installed BMPs, articles to the media, and programs concerning watersheds issues and land use to schools and community groups.

Big Walnut/Deer Creek Watershed Management Plan (6-176)

The Putnam County SWCD is producing a WMP for Big Walnut Creek and Deer Creek watersheds, Hydrologic Unit Codes (HUCs) 05120203010, 20, 30, 40, and 50. A steering committee of local stakeholders will be organized to guide the development of the watershed plan. A monitoring program will be conducted to identify nonpoint source pollution and critical areas within the watershed. The SWCD will also conduct an outreach and education program including press releases to local papers; public stakeholder meetings; and an outreach brochure highlighting the project and its goals.

Elkhart River Watershed Management Plan (6-177)

The Elkhart River Restoration Association, Inc. (ERRA) is developing and implementing a WMP for the Elkhart River watershed. A steering committee of local stakeholders will guide the development of the plan. The ERRA will submit to IDEM, with the complete plan, an Implementation Plan describing all activities that will be implemented during the implementation phase of the project, including information about cost-share projects and education activities. A monitoring program will be conducted to investigate water quality concerns in the watershed. The ERRA will also conduct an outreach program to educate the public about the project including brochures, field days to promote BMPs, and installation of at least one agricultural and one urban BMP as demonstration sites for a field day.

Youngs Creek WMP Implementation Phase III and Indian Creek WMP Development (7-103)

The Johnson County SWCD is continuing to implement the Youngs Creek WMP, and is also developing a WMP for the Indian Creek watershed, HUC 05120201170. A cost-share program will be implemented in the Youngs Creek watershed to install BMPs such as livestock exclusion, riparian buffers, conservation tillage, and others that address the natural resource concerns outlined in the WMP. The District will conduct outreach activities to increase public awareness and participation in the Youngs Creek and Indian Creek watershed projects. These activities will include public meetings; press releases; a webpage hosted on the Johnson County Soil and Water Conservation District website; newsletters for watershed residents; and workshops or field days about nonpoint source pollution.

Pete's Run and Little Deer Creek Implementation (7-7)

The Howard County SWCD is implementing the Pete's Run and Little Deer WMPs by implementing a cost-share program to implement BMPs including pest and nutrient management, manure management, stream bank protection, tree planting, livestock watering facility, wetland restoration, and animal mortality facilities. An education and outreach program will also be conducted consisting of information about the project submitted to the media or a local SWCD newsletter, workshops on septic systems and proper maintenance, distributing a Tile and Drainage Handbook, promoting the project by setting up a booth at community events, and organizing a water quality volunteer monitoring group.

LaGrange Water Quality Improvement (7-79)

The LaGrange County SWCD is implementing a cost-share program to install BMPs in the St. Joseph River watershed, HUC 04050001; focusing on the Bontrager Ditch/Emma Lake subwatershed, HUC 04050001140010. The cost-share program will include the development of Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plans (CNMPs) and may also include BMPs such as cattle exclusion fencing, alternative watering systems, buffer and filter strips, and others that address the water quality concerns outlined in the St. Joseph River or Little Elkhart River WMPs. The District will conduct an intensive monitoring program within the Bontrager Ditch/Emma Lake subwatershed and the Bontrager Ditch-Hostetler Ditch subwatershed (HUC 04050001140020) to determine the effectiveness of the BMPs.

The monitoring program will be designed as a paired watershed study with the Bontrager Ditch/Emma Lake subwatershed designated as the treatment watershed and the Bontrager Ditch-Hostetler Ditch subwatershed designated as the control watershed. Each subwatershed shall have six sampling sites, with one site near the watershed's mouth having an auto-sampler and continuous flow monitor. Public outreach activities will also be conducted including newsletters, pasture walks, a field day, and water quality workshops.

Upper Tippecanoe/Grassy Creek Implementation (7-80)

The Tippecanoe Environmental Lake & Watershed Foundation (TELWF) is implementing the Upper Tippecanoe River WMP by developing a cost-share program to install BMPs to reduce sediment, nutrient and E. coli loading in the Upper Tippecanoe Watershed, focusing on the Grassy Creek-Robinson Lake/Ridinger Lake (HUC 05120106010060), Elder Ditch (HUC 05120106010070), and Smalley Lake (HUC 05120106010030) subwatersheds. The TELWF is also conducting public education and outreach activities, including a field day highlighting completed BMPs; education days addressing watershed issues such as land use, riparian zones, erosion control, nutrient management, and septic system issues/maintenance; newsletters, and a brochure on BMPs.

Sugar Creek Watershed Management Plan (7-81)

The Hancock County SWCD is producing a WMP for the Sugar Creek watershed, HUC 05120204060. An advisory group will be formed to guide the development of the watershed plan. The District will conduct a monitoring program to assess water quality conditions in the Sugar Creek watershed for the plan development. Education and outreach activities will also be conducted to raise public awareness and participation in the Sugar Creek Watershed Project. Activities will include news releases to the local media; newsletters about the project to watershed stakeholders; workshops and/or field days to educate stakeholders about agricultural and urban BMPs; displays to promote the project; and organizing a Hoosier Riverwatch volunteer monitoring group.

Central Muscatatuck Watershed Management Plan (7-87)

The Historic Hoosier Hills RC&D is producing a WMP for the Central Muscatatuck watershed, HUCs 05120207010 and 05120207030. A monitoring program will be conducted to assess water quality conditions in the Central Muscatatuck watershed. The RC&D will also conduct education and outreach activities to raise public awareness and participation in the Central Muscatatuck watershed project, including public meetings; news releases to the local media; and river or lake clean-ups.

FFY 2005 Funds

Partnership for Turtle Creek (5-162)

The Sullivan County SWCD and the Partnership for Turtle Creek are continuing to implement a cost-share and an education program to reduce sediment loading in the Turtle Creek and Little Turtle Creek watersheds following the guidance of the Turtle Creek WMP. The Partnership will develop and promote cost-share programs to reduce nonpoint source pollution in the Turtle Creek and Little Turtle Creek watersheds, and to stabilize the shoreline of Turtle Creek Reservoir. BMPs may include but are not limited to bio-logs, fabric, and geo-textile rolls, conservation buffers, riparian buffer zones, grassed waterways, and exclusion fencing. A public education and outreach program will also be conducted including newsletters, steering committee meetings, displays and information distributed at local fairs and festivals, watershed demonstrations using the EnviroScape model, workshops to teach water quality testing and information about the project submitted to the media.

Development/Demonstration of Evaluation Framework for NPS Program (5-163)

Purdue University is developing a framework to assess the impacts of 319-funded watershed planning and implementation projects on social outcomes such as knowledge, attitudes, and behavior of watershed residents and stakeholders, and environmental outcomes such as the effect of implemented management practices on water quality. This evaluation framework will enhance Indiana's ability to account for the success of watershed projects that improve water quality at both the project and statewide program level.

Lower Sand Creek Watershed Project (5-165)

The Jennings County SWCD is implementing the Sand Creek WMP by implementing a cost-share program and providing education and outreach. The District will develop and promote a cost-share program that fulfills the objectives of the Sand Creek WMP. BMPs will be implemented in critical areas as described in the WMP. Outreach and partnership-building activities will be conducted to raise public awareness and participation in the Sand Creek Watershed Project including conservation/education field days about nonpoint source pollution or BMPs, public meetings, a "Sweep the Creek" stream clean-up event, brochures, newsletters about the project, a display about the project for use at community events, and signs to promote the watershed project and recognize landowners participating in project-sponsored conservation efforts. The District will also assist teachers with teaching materials and establish a watershed education curriculum for future use.

Lake George Stabilization and WMP implementation (5-175)

The City of Hobart is stabilizing the banks on Lake George in Fred Rose Park and developing land use planning recommendations for minimizing impacts of future development. The City will install approximately 4,200 feet of bioengineered bank stabilization on Lake George in accordance with the design plans developed through the Lake and River Enhancement Program. In addition to stabilizing the shoreline, the City will educate the public and encourage activities that reduce erosion including posting educational signs at public access locations and "no-wake" buoys in the lake to mark shallow water/aquatic plant zones, and conducting a public tour of the construction site and techniques necessary to save riparian vegetation. The City will also prepare specific policy recommendations to prevent further degradation of water quality from growth and development. Recommendations developed will be presented to the Hobart Plan Commission, and Board of Works and City Council, if appropriate.

Lower Eel River Watershed Management Plan (5-134)

The Clay County SWCD is developing a watershed management plan for two watersheds (HUC 05120203080 and 05120203090) in the Lower Eel Watershed. The District will conduct a monitoring program to establish baseline conditions and help with the development of the plan. A steering committee will be formed and meetings held at least bi-monthly to guide the development of the plan. Public meetings to educate the public about the project and get stakeholder input will also be held, and information will be submitted to the media no less than quarterly about the project and related activities.

South Fork Wildcat Creek-Kilmore Creek Watershed Management Plan (5-160)

The Clinton County SWCD is developing a WMP for the South Fork Wildcat Creek-Blinn Ditch (HUC 05120107040090) and the Kilmore Creek-Boyles Ditch (HUC 05120107040040) watersheds. The District will conduct a chemical and biological monitoring program in the watersheds to establish baseline water quality and help with the development of the plan. An education and outreach program will be conducted to help bring about behavioral changes that will lead to reduced nonpoint source pollution in the watershed including the following: stakeholder meetings, quarterly mailings to stakeholders, steering committee meetings, articles to local newsletters, press releases to the media, a booth that will promote the project at community events, and a workshop or field day designed to educate the entire county on local water quality issues. The District will also conduct two surveys, one at the beginning and one at the end of project to evaluate stakeholder knowledge.

Stony Creek Watershed Management Plan (5-161)

The Hamilton County Surveyor's Office is developing a WMP for the Stony Creek-North Trib (HUC 05120201070070), Stony Creek-William Lehr Ditch (HUC 05120201070060), Stony Creek-William Lock Ditch (HUC 05120201070050), and Stony Creek-Headwaters (HUC 05120201070040) watersheds. A public education and outreach program will be conducted including a steering committee to direct the project, public meetings to solicit input and participation into the development of the plan, press releases, and newspaper articles. Stakeholder surveys will be conducted to determine awareness of the area's water quality to help target education program.

Little Blue River Watershed Project (5-164)

The Rush County SWCD is developing a WMP for the Little Blue River watershed, HUC 05120204030. A steering committee will be established to assist in the development of the plan, and public meetings will be conducted to inform the public about the project and to solicit input on the WMP. The District will implement two demonstration projects to promote BMPs. One demonstration project will be located in an urban area and demonstrate BMPs such as filter strips or riparian buffers, and one demonstration project will demonstrate agricultural BMPs such as livestock exclusion and alternative watering systems. Education and outreach activities will be conducted to increase awareness about the watershed project and nonpoint source pollution including news releases or articles, a display about the watershed project at the Rush County and Shelby County Fairs, education programs/presentations about topics such as water quality, nonpoint source pollution, and best management practices, a field day at a demonstration area, a community watershed clean-up day, and educational water quality monitoring activities.

Prairie Creek/Tree Planting & Wetland Restoration Project (5-172)

Pheasants Forever is improving water quality in the St. Joseph River Watershed (HUC 04050001) by establishing prairie grass, woodland plots, and restored wetlands in priority areas outlined in the St. Joseph River WMP. Pheasants Forever will develop and implement a cost-share program to plant 200 acres of prairie grass, 30 acres of trees, and complete 5 wetland projects. They will also conduct public outreach to promote the project and educate the public on methods to improve water quality throughout the targeted area through newspaper and newsletter articles, brochures, demonstration sites at the LaGrange County Fairgrounds and Par Gil Natural Resource Learning Center, a display at the LaGrange County 4-H fair, public presentations, a Leopold Education Workshop geared to educate youth in natural resource stewardship, and a public field day to promote and display the project's efforts.

Little Calumet River Watershed Management Plan (6-01)

The Gary Storm Water Management District is developing a WMP for the West Branch of the Little Calumet River watershed, including three 14-digit hydrologic unit code watersheds: 071200003030050, 04040001040020, and 04040001040030. A Watershed Management Planning Steering Committee will be formed to oversee development of the plan. The District will conduct a monitoring and assessment program to gather needed information to complete the plan including a stream reach survey, E. coli sampling, a stream reach characterization, vegetative community characterization, an inventory of land use, and an ownership inventory. All applicable data will be mapped using a GIS to coordinate with the Gary Sanitary District GIS system. The District will conduct public education and outreach activities within the watershed to increase awareness of water quality issues and nonpoint source pollution including steering committee/public meetings, fact sheets on the Little Calumet River watershed, surface water runoff, septic systems, Gary storm water management, and habitat protection for water quality, a watershed awareness/ educational activity to teach the public about nonpoint source pollution and BMPs, and a volunteer monitoring program.

Clifty Creek Watershed Project (6-05)

The Bartholomew County SWCD is implementing the Clifty Creek WMP by implementing a cost-share program and providing education and outreach. The education, outreach and partnership-building activities include workshops, public meetings, newsletters, news releases, informational displays for use at events, educational road signs within the watershed, information about the project on the kidcommons Children's Museum website, and contributing toward the project construction and developing accompanying educational programming for a permanent water quality exhibit in the kids commons Children's Museum. The District will develop, promote, and implement a cost-share program that is consistent with the sediment, nutrient, and E. coli load reduction goals outlined in the Clifty Creek WMP, including implementing two educational cost-share demonstration projects. The District will continue conducting water quality monitoring in the watershed. A multi-parameter water quality probe and data logger will be incorporated into the monitoring network. Additional monitoring around major conservation projects will also be added to help document water quality improvements.

Tippecanoe River 2-Stage Ditch Demonstration (6-75)

The Nature Conservancy will install a 2-stage ditch, monitor its water quality and economic performance, and advertise its effectiveness to other water quality decision makers. Field days will be held at the project site in years two (2) and three (3) of the contract term to demonstrate the 2-stage ditch. The Conservancy will also conduct a stream monitoring program that consists of chemical and habitat monitoring at least three (3) stations upstream, downstream, and within the 2-stage ditch installation, and in at least three (3) stations in an adjacent control stream. The Contractor shall also monitor macroinvertebrate and fish communities on an annual basis at the same locations.

Tanners Creek Watershed Implementation (6-128)

Dearborn County SWCD is implementing the Tanners Creek WMP by implementing a cost-share program and providing education and outreach. The cost-share program consists of BMPs such as conservation tillage, pasture/hayland improvement, livestock exclusion, and others that address the natural resource concerns outlined in the plan. Dearborn County is also conducting comprehensive education and outreach activities to raise public awareness and participation in the Tanners Creek Watershed Project.

Spring Creek-Lick Run Watershed BMP Implementation (6-111)

The Clinton County SWCD is implementing the Spring Creek-Lick Run WMP. A cost-share program will be developed to install BMPs in target areas as identified in the plan. The focus of the program shall include filter strips, riparian buffers, fencing of livestock, alternative watering systems and CNMPs. The District will also conduct a public education and outreach program.

Southern Laughery Creek Watershed Implementation (6-164)

Historic Hoosier Hills is implementing the Southern Laughery Creek WMP. The project will use a focused education program, development of sustainable partnerships and implement BMPs with a cost-share program to reduce sediment, nutrient and pathogen loading from crop and livestock production; reduce or remediate the erosion of stream banks leading to loss or degradation of aquatic habitat (due to land development, transportation, and agricultural practices); improve aquatic habitats; establish riparian habitats; and reduce pollutant loading to streams, ponds, and ground water by inappropriate or failed on-site septic systems.

Lauramie Creek Watershed Management Plan Implementation (6-166)

Tippecanoe County Surveyor's Office is implementing the Lauramie Creek WMP by promoting and implementing a cost-share program designed to assist landowners with implementing rural and agricultural BMPs including riparian buffers, filter strips, agricultural field practices, exclusionary fencing and alternative watering systems for livestock and conducting stream bank restoration. In conjunction with the cost-share program, an outreach and educational campaign will be undertaken that includes developing five educational brochures, each detailing the specific benefits and cost savings associated with one of the BMPs listed above. They will also develop and place educational signs along portions of I-65 in order to warn travelers about the potentially toxic water quality and aquatic life impacts that traffic related spills and accidents can have on Lauramie Creek.

E. coli for Dunes Creek Project (6-150)

United States Geological Survey will analyze E. coli monitoring data previously collected for Dunes Creek, Trail Creek and Kintzele Ditch. These data once analyzed may yield an understanding of the sources, nature, and related factors of high E. coli contamination and help assess the impact of these waterways on downstream Lake Michigan and associated beaches. Through this knowledge, mitigation strategies should be able to be developed.

Indiana Training Program for Nonpoint Source Pollution Control and Water Resource Management (6-156)

The Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC) will survey water resource professionals on training needs and develop and deliver four (4) workshops during a two-year period in the state of Indiana. The workshops will provide needed tools for watershed coordinators, environmental managers and others in water quality planning and implementation. Potential workshop topics include erosion and sediment control at construction sites, watershed modeling, watershed monitoring strategies, and streambank stabilization/restoration approaches. The workshops will last a full day, and feature technical presentations on the topics selected by the survey population.

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