MARTIN SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT

923 North State Street, Suite 170, Fairmont, MN  56031 

(507) 235-6680

 FAX:  (507) 235-8171

 

MONEY NOW AVAILABLE
 

CLEAN WATER LEGACY
 
In 2006 the Minnesota Legislature passed the Clean Water Legacy Act, appropriating 25 million dollars for a jump start to cleaning up our impaired waters in Minnesota.  Upon creation of this act a Clean Water Council was formed to oversee the distribution and funding priorities.  Our count received over $36,000.00.  Cost-sharing on projects include alternative tile intakes, water and sediment control basins/terraces and grassed waterways.  These practices can be cost-shared up to 75%.  If you have areas on your land that these practices might apply, STOP INTO OUR OFFICE or CALL us at 507-235-6680 and ask for Greg Johanson:  greg.johanson@mn.nacdnet.net.
 

Grassed waterway in a cornfield.

Above:  A grassed waterway in a cornfield.  When the weather turns wet again, it's especially important to have grassed waterways ready to handle the runoff. A grassed waterway is an area where grass is left to grow permanently to drain runoff into designated outlets, without exposing bare soil to erosion. Most soil conservation plans should feature grassed waterways in their design.

A  wide, shallow, sod-lined waterway can reduce the flow of water and provide a cushion of grass for the water to "ride," preventing erosion and the formation of gullies.  Waterways also can be used as outlets for concentrated water coming from terraces, diversions, or adjacent properties,  or they can act as filters, settling out crop residues and fine sediments. But be careful--settling out too much sediment can cause a buildup of soil in the middle of a waterway, directing runoff into the field. Grassed waterways are most effective when used in combination with other conservation or erosion control strategies such as crop residue management, terraces, and buffer strips.

Water and Sediment Control Basin.  An earthen embankment acts similar to a terrace.

  It traps water and sediment running off cropland upslope from the structure, and reduces gully erosion by controlling flow within the drainage area. The basin releases water slowly, usually through infiltration or a pipe outlet and tile line.

Basins can be effective in reducing sedimentation of nearby waters, especially in areas where residue management or other practices are impractical.

 

Current Program Break-down Available based on 75% Cost-Share: 

  • Alternative Tile Intakes      
$5,400.00
  • Water & Sediment Control Basins/Terraces
 $9,600.00
  • Grassed Waterway
 $6,222.00
 

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The contents are the property of Martin SWCD.  The District's goal is to provide quality and accurate information.  All information within this site is subject to change and should only serve as a guideline for the District's services and procedures.  For the most Current and accurate information please contact the District at (507) 235-6680.