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What is a Watershed?

DEFINING WATERSHEDS

Our Wawasee watershed is fragile. Your smallest actions – on land and water – can have a lasting impact on the water quality in the watershed. Boating, shoreline development, certain plants, and even animal activity can negatively affect water quality. However, if we understand the threats and act responsibly, we can minimize this impact, and in some cases prevent damage in the first place.

Sediment and nutrients (namely phosphorus and nitrates) and pathogens (primarily E. coli) can change a lake forever.  They are currently present in the lakes and streams within our Watershed and are a direct result of human activity.  Run-off from farms and residential properties containing fertilizers and animal waste, can result in toxic, blue-green algae, which can kill fish and animals, and sicken humans.

But there is good news! Our research leads to direct action that protects the watershed from these threats.  Our WINS study is setting a new standard for how glacial lakes are studied, and we are leveraging the investment to request funding for further work with farmers through the National Water Quality Initiative (NWQI) and to further study Martin Creek.  In addition to working with the DNR’s Lake and River Enhancement, and the US Fish and Wildlife Service, WACF will pursue best management practices through the NWQI – making WACF the first glacial lake in the state to earn this designation and bring funding that is 75% paid, 25% by farmer.  It is a four-year grant, and the proposal includes water management, cover crops, no-till, and other Best Management Practices.

Invasive Plant removal and timber stand improvement will continue in our forests with Environmental Quality Incentive Program funding (EQIP) in 375 acres of WACF-owned land.  EQIP is overseen by the US Department of Agriculture and managed locally through the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)

Run-off from farms and residential properties, which contain fertilizers and animal waste, can also have harmful effects. Toxic, blue-green algae is just one example. This dangerous algae can sicken and kill fish and other animals, and is dangerous to humans.

Over the years, WACF has partnered with many state and federal agencies to plan, fund, and implement projects that will enhance and protect the watershed.