The Clean-up:
From aerial photography, accurate interpretation, frequent site visits, and the pollutant loading model, we have been able to promote and validate appropriate best management practices to minimize pollutant export from certain land use classes, without significantly impacting agriculture production.
Based on the Universal Soil Loss Equation (and recent revisions such as  ), on-site soil scientist and NRCS consultation and published model inputs, the pollutant loading model identified poor and overgrazed pastures as primary sources of soil loss, soil nitrogen and soil phosphorus. Low residue croplands and eroding streambanks were also significant sources of soil loss.
Some of the relatively simple BMPs which we believe will make a substantial impact on soil loss include:
- Renovation of poor pastures
- Establish riparian or conservation buffers
- Develop and follow Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plans
- Practive conservation tillage - establish high residue crops and practices
- Implement prescribed grazing practices
- Reduce the area of livestock loafing areas
Additional BMPs which will alleviate bacteria levels in Pond Creek include:
- Limit direct access of livestock to the stream
- Repair livestock stream access sites
- Repair and install manure holding facilities
- Repair failing septic systems
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