2021 Metro WBIF - Vermillion River (Dakota SWCD)
This project has multiple components to address priorities in the Vermillion River watershed.
A subwatershed analysis (SWA) will be completed to prioritize and identify specific practices in a portion of the lower mainstem of the Vermillion River.
Ag BMPs based on locations identified in previously completed SWAs will also be installed. BMPs would include structural practices and nonstructural practices as identified within the completed SWAs. Potential practices include: cover crop, critical area planting, filter strip, grade stabilization structure, grassed waterway, stream and shoreline protection, water and sediment control basins.
Outreach and technical assistance with irrigation operators on irrigation water management to address groundwater sustainability and limit nutrient leaching will be completed.
Nitrate reduction nonstructural BMPs including cover crops and perennial vegetation will be implemented within high or very high aquifer susceptibility areas.
Annie Felix-Gerth
(a) $13,591,000 the first year and $13,375,000 the second year are for performance-based grants with multiyear implementation plans to local government units. The grants may be used to implement projects that protect, enhance, and restore surface water quality in lakes, rivers, and streams; protect groundwater from degradation; and protect drinking water sources. Projects must be identified in a comprehensive watershed plan developed under the One Watershed, One Plan or metropolitan surface water management frameworks or groundwater plans. Grant recipients must identify a nonstate match and may use other legacy funds to supplement projects funded under this paragraph.
One SWA will be completed. 9 tons of sediment will be reduced annually through agricultural BMPs. Outreach and technical assistance provided for up to 30 irrigation operators. Nitrate reduction BMPs will be implemented on 100 acres.
This project resulted in the completion of one Subwatershed Assessment (SWA) with targeted BMPs for the Upper Main Stem and South Branch of the Vermillion river; installation of three grassed waterways to fix gully erosion to reduce 110.38 tons of sediment per year; 117 acres of cover crops for 745 lbs of nitrogen and 21.4 tons/sediment per year over three years; and development of the Irrigation Management Assistant tool with 17 registered users, 15 participants in the Minnesota Irrigator Program, and additional outreach to irrigators across the watershed.
LOCAL LEVERAGED FUNDS