Presentation Abstract

Jackson Purchase RC&D is the lead agency for two Watershed Based Plan (WBP) development initiatives, one for the East and Middle Forks of the Clarks River and one for Cane Creek. Jackson Purchase has comprised a team of representatives from nonprofit organizations, local governments, private corporations, and state and federal agencies to help develop and implement the WBPs.

The goal of the projects shall be to improve the habitat for all species, improve the overall water quality, reduce the threat of nonpoint source pollution from all sources in the tributaries and main stem, and identify other sources and potential sources of pollution in the watershed making it safe for recreation and aquatic life.

These projects are being funded through federal 319 grants and represent the best examples of private and public partnerships. They build off of the success of previous water quality improvement projects such as the Obion Creek Stream Restoration Project, Pirates Cove Cluster Septic System Demonstration, and Four Rivers basin Team. Education is also a key component and will touch every level of education from grade school through the university level. The team Jackson purchase RC&D has put together and the funding strategy can be replicated in any community in the nation. It can serve as a model to other areas on efficient methods to create and implement WBP to protect their waters.