2021 Big Elk and Mayhew Lakes Phosphorus Reduction Program
Spring time phosphorus loading has been identified as the main concern for Mayhew Lake, whereas summer loads dominate the Big Elk Lake nutrient impairment and Elk River turbidity impairment. Locations have been pinpointed within the watershed where the phosphorus originates from, as well as strategies that may be undertaken to reduce nutrient loading. Practices were strategically chosen to achieve maximum pollution reduction benefits. Some example practices include, nutrient management, feedlot runoff control, manure storage, riparian pasture management, & cropland & streambank erosion control projects. An estimated 673 pounds per year of phosphorus, 274 pounds per year of nitrogen and 684 tons per year of sediment will be reduced by implementing seven projects.
Annie Felix-Gerth
(Projects and Practices)(b) $16,000,000 the first year and $16,000,000 the second year are for grants to local government units to protect and restore surface water and drinking water; to keep water on the land; to protect, enhance, and restore water quality in lakes, rivers, and streams; and to protect groundwater and drinking water, including feedlot water quality and subsurface sewage treatment system projects and stream bank, stream channel, shoreline restoration, and ravine stabilization projects. The projects must use practices demonstrated to be effective, be of long-lasting public benefit, include a match, and be consistent with total maximum daily load (TMDL) implementation plans, watershed restoration and protection strategies (WRAPS), or local water management plans or their equivalents. A portion of this money may be used to seek administrative efficiencies through shared resources by multiple local governmental units. Up to 20 percent of this appropriation is available for land-treatment projects and practices that benefit drinking water.
There are 16 projects in progress, and we expect to install 7 of them. Combined their estimated reductions are; phosphorus 673 lbs./yr., nitrogen by 274 lbs./yr., BOD by 1,349 lbs./yr., COD by 3,862 lbs./yr., soil by 1,624 T/yr., and TSS by 684 T/yr.
LOCAL LEVERAGED FUNDS