Conservation Districts are locally organized self-governing bodies chartered by the State. Through voluntary action and cooperation of landowners (and other stake holders), the District works to conserve land, water, forest, wildlife and other related resources for the benefit of all.
Waterway Maintenance
As we approach the month of July for many of us, the crops are planted and most of the spraying is done. Now is the time to look over your grassed waterways and determine what maintenance, if any, is needed. As management practices, these waterways are valuable erosion control tools for your farms and like any tool they do require maintenance. A well maintained waterway will transfer surface water across your farm in a controlled manner that eliminates soil erosion and prevents gully erosion and sediment losses from your crop fields. Most grassed waterways have a life expectancy of about 10 years if they are maintained properly. Mowing is the number one maintenance item for keeping waterways functioning properly. Remember to delay mowing until after July 15th on all CRP waterways. While mowing your waterways, be on the look out for the following maintenance issues:
1) Areas of bare or exposed soil
2) Small gullies – both in the waterway itself and in the field along the waterway
3) Ruts from implements
4) Weed infestations
5) Tile blowouts
Addressing these issues early will prevent them from becoming larger more costly problems later. For assistance with any of the above waterway maintenance issues or if you would like our office to look at an existing waterway contact the Crawford SWCD/NRCS office at 419-562-8280.
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2009 Crawford SWCD Photo Contest Information!
