Partridge River E. Coli Reduction Match

This project will reduce Escherichia coli (E. coli) loading caused by outdated, unlined manure storage basins, unrestricted access of livestock to streams, and a lack of properly functioning vegetative buffers on the Partridge River in northern Todd County, Minnesota. The Partridge River is a major tributary to the headwaters of the Crow Wing River, a highly recreated river for fishing and water enthusiasts. The Partridge River (07010106-518) was placed on the EPA's 303(d) list of impaired waters in 2014 for high E. coli contributions by livestock operations. E. coli reductions will be achieved through closure of nine outdated manure storage basins, installation of 6 livestock access control projects, increased buffer areas, and the construction of winter manure storage areas.

Seven of the nine failure manure storage basins are placed in sandier soils within 300 feet of the river. Average water tables in the area indicate depths of 4.5 feet placing the basin floors at or into the water table. EPA studies have shown high levels of bacteria accumulating in shallow aquifers from outdated, poorly lined manure basins, or simply excavated into native soils.

Livestock with unrestricted access to streams provide a direct source of E. coli to streams by defecation. In addition, this process loads nitrogen, phosphorus, and other nutrients directly to the stream. In conjunction, increased buffer areas provide filtering of run off from livestock wastes leading to a reduction of E. coli loading.

This proposed Clean Water Fund Project will augment Federal 319 funds already obtained in the area to provide 75% cost share to landowners. A Phase I & II effort targeting access control grazing and other forms of livestock management BMPs in the targeted area is anticipated to complete a full recovery regarding livestock contributions of E.coli in the Partridge River.