Project information update for 2015 about the St. Croix/Red Cedar River Basin Farmer-Led Watershed Council Project. Includes incentives offered by each of the 4 farmer-led watershed council groups as well as updates on implementation of BMPs.

Project summary with objectives and methods for the St. Croix/Red Cedar River Basin Farmer-Led Watershed Council Project.

Project objectives: To improve water quality in the Red Cedar and St. Croix River basins through reduced phosphorus and sediment loading; to increase farmer knowledge on, and engagement with, water quality issues, including the adoption of conservation practices; to develop leadership around water quality among farmers in the selected sub-watersheds; and to develop a unique collaborative model of water quality improvement through farmer engagement that can be replicated in watersheds throughout the Upper Mississippi River Basin and nationwide.

Dunn County proposes to coordinate an effort by Dunn, Pierce, Polk, and St. Croix Counties, the UW Extension and Wis. DNR to facilitate formation of farmer-led watershed councils to promote and guide implementation of Best Management Practices to reduce phosphorus run-off and improve water quality within the Red Cedar and St. Croix River basins. Major project elements to include: a) outreach to farming community, b) recruitment of council members, c) technical support, d) nutrient and sediment monitoring, and e) development of incentive programs.

Dunn County proposes to coordinate an effort by Dunn, Pierce, Polk, and St. Croix Counties, the UW Extension and Wis. DNR to facilitate formation of farmer-led watershed councils to promote and guide implementation of Best Management Practices to reduce phosphorus run-off and improve water quality within the Red Cedar and St. Croix River basins.