Mayhew and Big Elk Lake Phosphorus Reduction Program

The Benton SWCD is applying to use Clean Water funds to work with livestock producers in implementing a variety of BMPs including, but not limited to cropland erosion control projects (water and sediment control basins, grade stabilization structures), extending buffers where appropriate to exceed state buffer laws, riparian pasture management and conversion to other uses, nutrient management and feedlot pollution control systems. Our goal is to reduce runoff from these sites and improve water quality within the Mayhew Lake and Big Elk Lake watersheds. The Mayhew Lake Nutrient TMDL (phosphorus) implementation plan has identified several sources of phosphorus as well as strategies and priority areas to reduce phosphorus inputs to the lake. Spring time phosphorus loading was identified as the primary area of concern. The Big Elk Lake TMDL places a high priority on upgrading feedlots with runoff problems. The implementation plan for both TMDLs recognizes the need to assess landowner interest and inventory, plan and design phosphorus reduction projects in high priority work areas, known as Tier 1 and Tier 2 zones. With the help of a BWSR Clean Water Legacy grant the Benton SWCD has spent the last three years working on these assessments. This was time well spent as we have identified numerous projects that will help meet both water quality goals and farmer goals. Many of the water quality projects have also been designed and are awaiting additional assistance. These Clean Water Legacy funds will provide the financial and technical assistance needed to install those projects and will continue assessing other farms in the high priority work areas.