Redwood-Cottonwood River Sediment and Nutrient Reduction

The Redwood River and Cottonwood River watersheds encompass approximately 2,020 square miles of southwestern Minnesota in the Minnesota River Basin. Land use in these watersheds is mostly agricultural and area geology makes them prone to erosion. Surface water issues within the two watersheds are a concern of local leaders. The counties and Soil and Water Conservation District leaders formed the Redwood Cottonwood Rivers Control Area (RCRCA) Joint Powers Board in 1983 to address sedimentation, water quality and quantity, and erosion issues.
The purpose of this project is to facilitate individual landowners with the installation of conservation practices within the Redwood and Cottonwood watersheds through planning and technical assistance activities. 50% cost-share funds will be available with the remainder to be paid through federal and landowner match. Implementing groundwater infiltration and phosphorus reducing conservation practices through new funded conservation practices will help achieve reductions necessary to meet goals set forth in local, watershed wide, and Minnesota River basin water plans. This project's anticipated goals are to reduce 3,417 tons of phosphorus and 5,942 tons of sediment reaching the Minnesota River, annually through implementation of ten water and sediment control basins, 9560' of grassed waterways, 2550' of stream bank protection, and six grade stabilization projects.