By Doug Keene
If erosion is visible, it exceeds tolerable soil loss limits and it is time to address the issue. We can pay up to $0.90 on the dollar to assist producers with the installation of practices to reduce soil and water runoff allowing you to keep productive soils in place for future generations.
In 2024, $190,737 State and $1,025,153 of Federal (EQIP) funds were used to install the following erosion control practices.
Grassed Waterways – 7,759 feet of grassed waterways installed in areas of concentrated flows where gully erosion was a problem. Some recommended maintenance for grassed waterways would be to mow 2-3 times a year, control weeds and rodents, careful application of herbicides and do not use waterways as field roads. Over time, removal of sediment will be required. Vegetation traps sediment gradually reducing the capacity of the waterway, allowing runoff to flow outside of the waterway causing erosion in the cropland.
Grade Stabilization Structures – Installed five structures with drainage areas ranging from 9.0 up to 100 acres. It is most often used at the edge of woodland to stabilize grade and control the advancement of gullies into cropland, provide a stable outlet for grassed waterways and can also enhance wildlife habitat. Some recommended maintenance is to periodically inspect for damage, especially after storm events, remove any debris from spillways, pipes and trash racks, control rodents and the growth of woody vegetation.
Rotational Grazing – 500 acres of cropland converted to grazing.
Other conservation practices available (but not limited to): no-till, contour farming, terraces, well sealing and cover crops.
Upland treatment is important in preserving our natural resources. Please call or stop by the office for more information.