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The project demonstrates the use of Best Management Practices (BMPs) through a diverse cost-share program*. These BMPs include private well site protection (renovation, diversion, plugging), septic system improvements and installation, Nutrient & Pest Management Incentive Program, riparian buffer strip plantings, and streambank stabilization. In addition, the Ida County Sanitarian offers free well water testing for rural residents.

*Cost-share funding, excluding well renovation, well plugging and riparian buffer strip plantings, is limited to residents and landowners in the Battle Creek Watershed project area. Click here for a map of the project area.

Crop management demonstration plots take concepts from
the classroom to the field. During the project, seven plots
were created. Topics include: manure/nitrogen addition
to corn, nitrogen addition to corn (no manure), yield
responses to planting population and nitrogen, and
Bt vs. non-Bt corn hybrids. These plots address local farming
and water quality issues. A 1998 field day educated nearly
100 people about applying manure and nitrogen to corn.

Improving on-farm water quality by replacing a septic
system. Because of the shallow aquifer depth in much
of the watershed, improper sewage treatment poses a
health risk. From 1997-2000, the project replaced six
complete systems. Two field days were held, educating
more than forty people about septic systems.

Plugging abandoned wells protects
water and prevents accidents. Through the
Ida County Sanitarian, landowners may receive
up to $200 cost-share for plugging wells.