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HomeMy WebLinkAboutSmith Creek Watershed Restoration Plan (Warren County)SMITH CREEK WATERSHED RESTORATION PLAN Warren County, North Carolina NC DENR DWQ Contract #: EW06022 Prepared for Division of Water Quality North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources Prepared by Division of Soil and Water Conservation Department of Environment and Natural Resources 1614 Mail Service Center Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1614 with assistance from Warren County Soil and Water Conservation District May 20, 2008 Smith Creek Watershed Restoration Plan (May 2008) ii TITLE PAGE Project Name: Smith Creek Watershed Restoration Plan Sponsor: Division of Soil and Water Conservation 1614 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1614 Fiscal Year of Grant: FY2005 NC-DENR Contract Number: EW06022 Contract Period: 7/15/05 – 9/30/08 Federal Dollar Amount: $130,000 Principal Investigator(s): Julie J. Henshaw, Jill A. Slankas Date of Watershed Restoration Plan: May 20, 2008 Smith Creek Watershed Restoration Plan (May 2008) iii ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS This project was funded under the United States Environmental Protection Agency Section 319 Grant Program, administered by North Carolina Division of Water Quality. Project Partners Warren Soil and Water Conservation District Contact: Larry West, Director Gary Holtzman, Ag Cost Share Technician 820 Highway 158 Business West Suite 102 Warrenton, NC 27589 252-257-3836 x. 3 Warren Natural Resource Conservation Service Contact: Robert Brown, District Conservationist 820 Highway 158 Business West Suite 102 Warrenton, NC 27589 252-257-3836 Division of Water Quality – Intensive Surveys Unit Contact: Peter Caldwell, Supervisor 1621 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1621 919-743-8496 Additional Persons with Significant Contributions to the Project and Final Report David B. Williams, Chief, Nonpoint Source Programs Section, DSWC Julie J. Henshaw, Watershed Projects Manager, DSWC David Harrison, Watershed Program Specialist, DSWC Jill A. Slankas, Nonpoint Source Planning Coordinator, DSWC Smith Creek Watershed Restoration Plan (May 2008) iv TABLE OF CONTENTS EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ……………………………………………………………….. 1 INTRODUCTION ………………………………………………………………………… 3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION ……………………………………………………………….. 4 MONITORING AND DATA COLLECTION …………………………………………… 5 PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT ………………………………………………………………. 6 MEASURES OF SUCCESS ……………………………………………………………… 7 WATERSHED CHARACTERISTICS …………………………………………………… 7 Watershed Description ……………………………………………………………. 7 Soils ……………………………………………………………………………….. 9 Land Use ………………………………………………………………………….. 10 Water Quality ………………………………………………………………………10 Identification of Causes and Sources of Pollution that Need to Be Controlled …....12 PROJECT GOALS ……………………………………………………………………….. 14 Estimate of the Load Reductions …………………………………………………. 14 Description of NPS Management Measures to Achieve Goals …………………… 15 IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAM ………………………………………………………. 18 Schedule for Implementing the NPS Management Measures …………………….. 18 Measureable Milestones ……………………………………………………………19 Criteria for Determining Load Reductions ……………………………………….. 19 Water Quality Monitoring ………………………………………………….…….. 20 Education and Outreach ………………………………………………………….. 20 Estimate of Technical and Financial Assistance Needed …………………………. 22 BUDGET SUMMARY ………………………………………………………………….. 25 REFERENCES AND LITERATURE CITED …………………………………………… 26 LIST OF APPENDICES APPENDIX A: List of Existing Best Management Practices (BMPs) in the Smith Creek Watershed and Their Corresponding Locations. APPENDIX B: Photos and Descriptions of Sites Needing Agricultural BMPs APPENDIX C: Detailed Description of Agricultural and Stormwater BMPs APPENDIX D: Gully Erosion Computation and the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation Worksheet APPENDIX E: Educational Brochures Developed for the Smith Creek Watershed Project APPENDIX F: Aerial Map with Locations for Corresponding Stream Observations and Photos Smith Creek Watershed Restoration Plan (May 2008) v LIST OF FIGURES 1. Smith Creek Watershed Location Map………………………………………..... 3 2. Map of the Smith Creek Watershed and Tributaries………………………….…8 3. General Soils Map of the Smith Creek Watershed ………………………….…..9 4. Map Illustrating Existing BMPs in the Smith Creek Watershed ……………….11 Smith Creek Watershed Restoration Plan (May 2008) vi LIST OF TABLES 1. Estimated Tons of Soil Saved Per Acre for BMPs, by Soil Classification……….. 15 2. Schedule for Implementing BMPs in the Smith Creek Watershed ……………… 18 3. Summary of BMPs to be Installed in the Smith Creek Watershed, by Tributary …. 19 4. Summary of BMPs that Need to be Installed in Addition to the BMPs Implemented through the Section 319 Agricultural Sediment Initiative ….. 23 5. Budget Summary for the Smith Creek Watershed Project …………………………25 Smith Creek Watershed Restoration Plan (May 2008) vii ABBREVIATIONS ACSP Agriculture Cost Share Program BMP Best Management Practice DENR Department of Environment and Natural Resources DSWC Division of Soil and Water Conservation DWQ Division of Water Quality EEP Ecosystem Enhancement Program EPA Environmental Protection Agency ESS Environmental Sciences Section GIS Geographic Information Systems NC North Carolina NCASWCD North Carolina Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts NRCS Natural Resources Conservation Service SWCC Soil and Water Conservation Commission USDA United States Department of Agriculture USGS United States Geological Society Smith Creek Watershed Restoration Plan (May 2008) 1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Smith Creek Watershed is 34,500 acres and is located in Warren County, North Carolina. The Smith Creek Watershed is part of the larger Roanoke River Basin. Agriculture is the main pollution source that this project aims to address. The nonpoint source pollutants that are targeted in this effort include: excess nitrogen, excess phosphorus, sedimentation, pathogens/bacteria and low dissolved oxygen. The primary objective of this project is to develop and implement a watershed restoration plan to address the severe sedimentation problems of Smith Creek, in the Roanoke River Basin. The Smith Creek Agriculture Sediment Initiative will restore degraded waters by targeting and implementing best management practices (BMPs). The BMPs will directly reduce sediment delivery to the listed impaired waters. Other benefits can be expected as well since many of the proposed BMPs will prevent off-site movement of pesticides, phosphorus, nitrogen, and fecal coliform. Improvements in streambank stability and habitat for fish and macroinvertebrates will also be realized. Smith Creek is listed on North Carolina’s 2002, 2004 and 2006 303(d) lists because of biological impairment and low dissolved oxygen. Erosion and sedimentation from agriculture has been identified as the potential source of impairment. The overall goal is removing Smith Creek from the NC 303(d) list. The Division of Soil and Water Conservation and the Warren Soil and Water Conservation District developed and are implementing a watershed restoration plan for Smith Creek. This plan addresses the nine key elements required by U.S. EPA. The project will identify and prioritize sites to accelerate BMP implementation in Smith Creek, using Section 319 funds to supplement ACSP funds targeted by the Soil and Water Conservation Commission (SWCC). The Smith Creek Agricultural Sediment Initiative will address the severe sedimentation problems found in Smith Creek by installing necessary best management practices on agricultural sites. These practices include but are not limited to field borders, grassed waterways, livestock exclusion, heavy use area protection, long term no till, and sod based rotation. Warren Soil and Water Conservation District and the DSWC will prioritize the necessary BMPs that are needed to prevent further water quality degradation from nonpoint source pollutants. An estimated 6,000-ton reduction of sediment is expected from the implementation of Best Management Practices (BMPs) within the Smith Creek Watershed. The majority of this reduction will be from implementing sediment reducing agronomic farming practices such as long-term no-till and sod based rotation. Vegetative and structural BMPs, such as field borders, grassed waterways, and heavy use protection areas will also play a vital role in reducing the amount of sedimentation entering into the creek and its tributaries. Such sediment controls can repair gulley erosion that may be occurring at the edge of the agricultural field. Implementation of livestock exclusion practices will also be a vital component of the success of this project. BMPs installed on sites where cattle have been allowed access to the streams may show the most benefits to water quality in the shortest timeframe. Excluding animals from the creek and repairing the streambanks with native vegetation and additional engineering work, as necessary, should decrease the levels of turbidity at the previous sample sites. Smith Creek Watershed Restoration Plan (May 2008) 2 The overall goal of the community education program in the Smith Creek watershed is to develop an atmosphere that encourages long-term protection and improvement of water resources in the watershed (see Appendix E for a copy of the educational brochures). Various educational opportunities will be included within the implementation phase of the project that will include the following objectives: • Increase public awareness of the value of clean water • Increase public awareness of how common activities contribute to nonpoint source pollution and poor water quality • Increase public awareness of how conservation practices can reduce negative impacts on water quality and habitat degradation • Increase public awareness of how the protection of water quality can contribute to the environmental and economic benefits of the watershed. Estimated technical assistance that will be needed to effectively implement this project is $32,625. However the Warren SWCD is providing their services without reimbursement to implement this project. An additional $108,000 will be needed to assist landowners in installing BMPs on priority sites. The Warren SWCD has placed this watershed as a priority on their NC Agriculture Cost Share Strategy Plan. A total of $130,000 was requested to adequately fund the Smith Creek Agricultural Sediment Initiative and was awarded via the Section 319 Program beginning FY06 (July 15, 2005). It is estimated that additional funding in excess of $130,000 is needed to implement conservation measures throughout the Smith Creek watershed in order to continue to work towards addressing the nonpoint source pollution concerns and to ultimately remove Smith Creek from the North Carolina 303(d) list. Smith Creek Watershed Restoration Plan (May 2008) 3 INTRODUCTION The Smith Creek Watershed is 34,500 acres and is located in Warren County, North Carolina. The Smith Creek Watershed is part of the larger Roanoke River Basin. Agriculture is the main pollution source that this project aims to address. The nonpoint source pollutants that are targeted in this effort include: excess nitrogen, excess phosphorus, sedimentation, pathogens/bacteria and low dissolved oxygen. The estimated load reduction from implementing this project is 14,000 pounds of nitrogen saved, 8,800 pounds of phosphorus saved, and 3,500 tons of soil saved. The estimated load reduction calculations were derived from several methods such as Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation, North Carolina Agricultural Nutrient Assessment Tool, Nitrogen Loss Estimation Worksheet and other approved erosion reduction equations. The primary objective of this project was to develop and implement a watershed restoration plan to address the severe sedimentation problems of Smith Creek, in the Roanoke River Basin. The Smith Creek Agriculture Sediment Initiative will restore degraded waters by targeting and implementing best management practices (BMPs). The BMPs will directly reduce sediment delivery to the listed impaired waters. Other benefits can be expected as well since many of the proposed BMPs will prevent off-site movement of pesticides, phosphorus, nitrogen, and fecal coliform. Improvements in streambank stability and habitat for fish and macroinvertebrates will also be realized. Smith Creek is listed on North Carolina’s 2002, 2004 and 2006 303(d) lists because of biological impairment and low dissolved oxygen. Erosion and sedimentation from agriculture has been identified as the potential source of impairment. The overall goal is removing Smith Creek from the NC 303(d) list. The Warren County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) and the USDA-NRCS staff are providing technical information, engineering assistance, and oversight of the installation of the BMPs. The Division of Soil and Water Conservation (DSWC) worked with the district using the NC Agriculture Cost Share Program (ACSP) infrastructure for financial assistance. The state’s 303(d) list denotes many streams in North Carolina as being impaired by sediment from agricultural sources. Beginning in 2000, the North Carolina Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts (NCASWCD) and the Soil and Water Conservation Commission (SWCC) Figure 1: Smith Creek Watershed Location Map Smith Creek Watershed Restoration Plan (May 2008) 4 began the Agricultural Sediment Initiative to target more than 50 stream segments on the 303(d) list to implement agricultural BMPs to address this water quality concern. The SWCC has targeted more than $1,000,000 to these streams, and Section 319 and Clean Water Management Trust Fund grants have supplemented Commission allocations in Brasstown Creek (Clay and Cherokee Counties), Ararat River (Surry County), Little Troublesome Creek (Rockingham County), Haw River (Alamance County), and Contentnea Creek (Pitt, Greene, and Lenoir Counties). According to the 2001 Roanoke River Basinwide Water Quality Plan and the 2002, 2004 and 2006 NC 303(d) Impaired Waters Lists, Smith Creek is biologically impaired, and it is also impaired due to low dissolved oxygen. Erosion and sedimentation from agriculture was identified as being the potential source for the impairment. Corrective action is needed to achieve the goal of ultimately removing Smith Creek from the NC 303(d) list. The Division of Water Quality (DWQ) 2001 Roanoke River Basinwide Water Quality Plan stressed the need for restoration work and corrective action in the Smith Creek Watershed. Nonpoint source pollution has been identified as the contributor of most of the negative impacts on the creek. The Basinwide Plan suggests that an increase of voluntary BMPs need to be implemented on agricultural lands prior to substantial improvements in water quality being detected. The NC ACSP as well as federally funded programs are continually being utilized throughout Warren County. However the local priority for these programs has been placed on the Tar-Pamlico River Basin because of the 30% Nitrogen Reduction Requirement from Agriculture. Thus, adequate financial support to assist farmers in the installation of BMPs to address the extensive sedimentation problems in the Smith Creek Watershed has not been available. The Division of Water Quality 2006 Roanoke River Basinwide Water Quality Plan states that water quality in the Smith Creek watershed is expected to improve by the end of the next assessment period (August 2009), due to the many efforts from the Warren County SWCD in implementing projects in this watershed. In March 2005, Warren SWCD received an EPA Section 319 grant totaling over $48,000 to restore Smith Creek by targeting nonpoint source pollution and implementing BMPs. In addition, Warren SWCD was granted additional funding of approximately $150,000 to carry out their projects in the Smith Creek watershed. This Watershed Restoration Plan is part of the larger project that also includes educational efforts and the implementation of agricultural BMPs. PROJECT DESCRIPTION The Division of Soil and Water Conservation and Warren Soil and Water Conservation District developed and are implementing a watershed restoration plan for Smith Creek. The project will identify and prioritize sites to accelerate BMP implementation in Smith Creek, using Section 319 funds to supplement ACSP funds targeted by the SWCC. The Smith Creek Agricultural Sediment Initiative will address the severe sedimentation problems found in Smith Creek by installing necessary best management practices on agricultural sites. These practices include but are not limited to field borders, grassed waterways, livestock exclusion, heavy use area Smith Creek Watershed Restoration Plan (May 2008) 5 protection, long term no till, and sod based rotation. Warren Soil and Water Conservation District will prioritize the necessary BMPs that are needed to prevent further water quality degradation from nonpoint source pollutants. The NC Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts, the Soil and Water Conservation Commission and the DSWC are committed to and believe the Smith Creek Agricultural Sediment Initiative will directly reduce sediment delivery to the targeted impaired stream. It will also reduce nitrogen and phosphorus losses, fecal coliform delivery, and pesticides. The Division of Soil and Water Conservation as well as the Warren Soil and Water Conservation District understand the importance of addressing all nonpoint source contributors within the watershed. Therefore an education and outreach program will be conducted for the residents of the area including the community of Norlina. Brochures were developed and distributed that focus on fertilizer application on home gardens and lawns and septic tank maintenance. This method of outreach provides the residents ample information regarding the watershed in which they live and the importance of keeping it clean. Contact information for local agencies that can provide further technical assistance for their individual needs will also be provided. MONITORING AND DATA COLLECTION Monitoring will be conducted with cooperation between the Division of Soil and Water Conservation, Warren Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) and the Environmental Sciences Section (ESS) of Division of Water Quality. ESS conducted monitoring prior to BMP implementation to establish a baseline. This initial data will serve as the point in which we will be able to document changes before and after the final stages of the project. Benthic macroinvertebrate surveys were conducted in the summer of 2004, thus this information can be utilized as the baseline for this measure. The next scheduled benthic macroinvertebrate survey is to be conducted in 2009. All data collected will be shared with the DWQ’s Planning Branch in order to assist them with their Basinwide Planning initiatives. The Warren SWCD will be conducting field assessments as well. These calculations will estimate the reduction in soil loss and nutrient loss using the North Carolina Agricultural Nutrient Assessment Tool and the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation. The Division of Soil and Water Conservation will be meeting with the Division of Water Quality to develop a plan for monitoring for the Spring of 2009 and beyond. Smith Creek Watershed Restoration Plan (May 2008) 6 PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT Environmental education opportunities exist for the citizens within the watershed through various avenues. Ecology Field Days Warren SWCD is committed to their annual environmental field days in which they educate school age children on the benefits of conservation, agricultural BMPs and rural/urban BMPs. Annual Agricultural Outreach Event A joint effort with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Farm Service Agency and the Warren SWCD is involved in organizing this annual dinner for the agricultural community. Each represented agency promotes the programs and services that they offer as well as update the audience on the status of current projects. Warren County Government Day Sponsored by Warren County, each department has the opportunity to participate by including a booth in the event. At this time the Warren SWCD educates citizens about their services as well as rural/urban conservation practices. Cost Share Tour Warren SWCD sponsors this event to educate the local and state leaders and officials on the agricultural initiatives that are occurring within Warren County. Warren County High School Agriculture Tours This unique opportunity allows the Warren SWCD staff to be included in the Agriculture Science curriculum. Staff provides education information in a classroom setting to the students then takes them on field tours to see conservation at work. The information that is covered in the lesson includes conservation, stream bank protection, erosion control and buffers. Annual Contests Each year the Warren SWCD promotes Poster contests for grades 3-6; Essay contests and Public Speaking Contests for grades 7-8. Each year the NC Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts establishes a current environmental issue as the topic. NC Envirothon The Warren County SWCD promotes high school teams of 5 students to participate in the NC Envirothon. This program tests the knowledge and skills of the team on the following subjects: Forestry, Aquatics, Soils, Current Environmental Issues, and Wildlife. The SWCD staff assists Smith Creek Watershed Restoration Plan (May 2008) 7 the students throughout the school year in educating and training their teams on these topics. This hands-on approach to learning is a great opportunity for all students and staff. Education meetings that have taken place for the Smith Creek project include: • Warren SWCD spoke about the Smith Creek Watershed project to 185 people attending the annual USDA Outreach meeting (October 26, 2006) • Warren SWCD gave a slide presentation to approximately 125 local high school students in the FFA/agricultural class covering BMPs that were going to be installed in the Smith Creek Watershed (November 1, 2006) • Warren SWCD conducted a BMP Field Tour with approximately 50 local high school FFA/agricultural students that showcased multiple farm sites exclusively in the Smith Creek Watershed (November 14, 2006) MEASURES OF SUCCESS Implementation of BMPs that will achieve the greatest decrease in sedimentation within Smith Creek will be the primary factor during prioritization of cost share applications. Applications will be solicited with a specific deadline established. A site visit will be conducted for all applicants to evaluate the erosion problems and suggest solutions to correct the issue. Such practices that may be suggested as corrective measures include but are not limited to grassed waterways, field borders, livestock exclusion from the creek by fencing, and heavy use protection areas. This project will also focus on promoting agronomic farm management techniques that will also decrease the sediment load into the water body. These practices include sod-based rotation and long term no till. Information will be collected at each site such as slope, crop rotation, farm management practices, drainage area and size of gullies, if applicable, in order to calculate the potential soil loss before and after BMP installation. The Revised Universal Soil Loss Evaluation calculations will be utilized in this process. Each applicant will then be ranked based upon the reduction of soil loss and distance from stream, at minimum. As work is accomplished through this initiative, a direct result may be removal of Smith Creek from the NC 303(d) list. The water quality monitoring data will give specific results as to the effectiveness of BMP implementation. A comparative analysis of the field assessments with the water quality improvements would be an asset to future projects. WATERSHED CHARACTERISTICS Watershed Description The Smith Creek Watershed is 34,500 acres and is located almost entirely within Warren County. This watershed is part of the larger Roanoke River Basin system, which ultimately flows into the Albemarle Sound. Smith Creek Watershed Restoration Plan (May 2008) 8 The Smith Creek Watershed contains seven major tributaries as well as Smith Creek (see Figure 2). The major tributaries are: Ellington Branch, Newman’s Creek, Cabin Branch, Terrapin Creek, Malone’s Creek, Blue Mud Creek and Reedy Branch. Figure 2: Map of Smith Creek Watershed and Major Tributaries. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Warren County had a median household income of $27,812 in 2004, compared to a statewide median household income of $40,863 and a national median household income of $44,334. Therefore, funding such as this Section 319 grant allows for farmers in Warren County to implement best management practices that they and the local Soil and Water Conservation District would not otherwise have the means to install. The population of Warren County increased by almost 16% from 1990 to 2000, going from 17,265 to 19,972. The population is expected to increase to 22,237 by 2010 and 24,183 by 2020. The township of Smith Creek has not experienced a significant change in population from 1970 to 2000, going from 2,020 to 2,198, with increases to 2,330 in 1980 and 2,266 in 1990. However, the township of Smith Creek did have 297 new dwelling units in 1990 compared to 1970. Smith Creek Watershed Restoration Plan (May 2008) 9 Soils The soils of the Smith Creek Watershed located in Warren County N.C. are contained entirely within the Piedmont geographic section of the state. Three main geologies make up the watershed: granite, granite-gneiss and fluvial sediments (flood plain material). One percent or less of the watershed contains soils derived from coastal plain remnants, or "capping". The upland soils are derived from the acid crystalline granite based rocks. For a more detailed look at the soils contained within the Smith Creek Watershed, please refer to the available Warren County Soils Maps and the Warren County Soils Legend (Figure 3). At present, there is an ongoing Progressive Soil Survey underway in Warren County. As of this report, about 98 percent of the Smith Creek Watershed has complete soils mapping available. Note that these are the major soil units found in Smith Creek Watershed. They are by no means the only soils found in Smith Creek. Also be aware that none of the areas depicted on the General Soils Map are purely the soil unit depicted. The depiction merely means that these areas are predominated by that particular soils unit. Cecil and Pacolet - Characterized as very deep, well drained soils with red colored, clayey subsoil. These soils are considered suitable for most uses and practices common to the area. Vance - These are very deep, well-drained soils with yellowish colored clayey subsoil. Generally suitable for agriculture, but may have limitations where permeability of water is concerned. These soils are not generally recommended for residential development. Appling and Wedowee - Basically the "yellow" counterpart to Cecil and Pacolet soils. Appling and Wedowee may even have a slight advantage over their red counterpart (especially for agriculture) due to a generally thicker surface horizon. These soils are also considered suitable for most uses and practices common to the area. Helena - Characterized as very deep, moderately well drained soils with clayey, yellow subsoil. Usually suitable for agriculture except during extremely wet periods, this soil is generally not recommended for building site development or any practice with might be adversely affected by wetness or slow permeability. Chewacla and Wehadkee - These are very deep somewhat poorly and poorly drained soils with loamy subsoils. Commonly known as flood plains, these soils exhibit a high water table. Unless Figure 3: General Soils Map of the Smith Creek Watershed Smith Creek Watershed Restoration Plan (May 2008) 10 drained and protected from frequent flooding, these soils make for a poor choice in any usage except woodland or the occasional pasture or hayland. Few acres of these soils are used in agriculture. Wake-Louisburg-Saw - These soils have characteristics that range from very shallow to bedrock to deep and droughty. Not considered a desirable soil for agriculture or development, but a sizable amount is used in the former. Most of its agricultural acreage is used as pasture because of bedrock at the surface that would impede conventional agricultural equipment. Mattiponi - These soils are moderately to well drained, clayey soils derived from coastal plain "capping". They are found on the highest elevations in the county and contain many "inclusions" of the above-mentioned upland soils. Mostly suitable for agriculture and other uses, this soil is limited in acreage and should be considered a minor component in the Smith Creek Watershed. According to the Warren County-2022 Comprehensive Development Plan (Land Use Plan), soils with characteristics best suited for agriculture, contain significant environmental features, or have significant wetland classifications, need to be protected. Caution should be exercised when developing around all surface water locations and groundwater recharge/discharge points. Careful development of these areas needs to be enforced to manage stormwater runoff and sedimentation of water resources, wetlands, and floodplains. Land surrounding these surface water sources can act as a buffer to minimize negative impacts on water quality, provide tree cover, and add to open space conservation for the County. Land Use The land use in the Smith Creek Watershed is approximately 55% wooded land, 43% open/undeveloped land and 2% urban/residential. Land use changes in the past 5-10 years within the watershed include agricultural operations that have changed farming practices from conventional planting methods to soil saving, high residue management conservation tilled methods. Along with the reduction of row crops such as tobacco to planting permanent cover such as fescue and/or trees. Also, some farmland has been retired and homes built. While Warren County is classified as rural, with a predominantly agricultural economy, there is a growing commercial and industrial component, specifically near the US-158 and I-85 corridor (Warren County-2022 Comprehensive Development Plan, 2002). Water Quality A map showing existing Best Management Practices is provided (Figure 4) and a corresponding table describing the type of BMP at each locations can be found in Appendix A. Smith Creek Watershed Restoration Plan (May 2008) 11 Appendix B contains photos and descriptions for sites that are in need of agricultural BMPs. Table 4 in the Implementation Program section of this plan summarizes the BMP needs compiled in Appendix B. As development occurs, the impact on water resources becomes greater, increased housing and industry reduces available land cover, affects water quality and agriculture (Warren County-2022 Comprehensive Development Plan, 2002). This same development will affect aquatic habitats by changing vegetative cover, increasing stream temperature, and reducing the food supply for aquatic life. Nonpoint source pollution can include uncontrolled agricultural practices, distribution of pesticides and fertilizers, sediment runoff from construction sites, or runoff from an overflowing wastewater station or septic drain field (Warren County-2022 Comprehensive Development Plan, 2002). The Warren County-2022 Comprehensive Development Plan states, “although agricultural practices are the most prevalent cause for impaired water quality and watersheds, Warren County Figure 4: Locations of Existing BMPs in the Smith Creek Watershed. Smith Creek Watershed Restoration Plan (May 2008) 12 has done well (in comparison to other areas in NC) in proper agricultural practices to maintain water quality and protect its watersheds. In addition, farmers have been using BMPs (Best Management Practices) to reduce nitrogen and phosphorus being discharged into surface waters around their land.” Identification of Causes and Sources of Pollution that Need to Be Controlled The Roanoke River Basin is included in the NC Division of Water Quality Basinwide planning program. This program identifies impaired waters and their potential sources for impairment. Recommended actions are also included in the completed Basinwide Plan in hopes to restore these waters to full use support ratings. The Smith Creek watershed has been listed as an impaired stream on the NC 303(d) Impaired Waters for many years. The assessment in 1998 stated that the biological integrity of this watershed was impaired. The Division of Water Quality based these determinations on benthic macroinvertebrate studies. In 2002 Smith Creek continued to be included on the 303(d) list with the addition of declining dissolved oxygen levels. The 2004 and 2006 303(d) lists also include Smith Creek as being biologically impaired, as well as impaired due to low dissolved oxygen. Erosion and sedimentation from agriculture are identified as being the potential source for the impairment. The NC Division of Water Quality Basinwide Assessment Reports stated that the lowest levels of dissolved oxygen concentrations within the entire Roanoke River Basin were from Smith Creek, near Paschal. This data was collected from an ambient monitoring station at the lower end of the creek in 1999. In addition approximately 25% of all samples taken at this site were less than the water quality standard of 5.0 mg/l. Stagnant conditions, caused by beaver dams, are suggested to be another contributor to the low dissolved oxygen levels and biological impairment. The 2004 Stressor Survey supported the fact there are several pasture-based beef cattle operations where the animals have direct access to streams. Smith Creek Watershed is also the home of confined animal operations including: 2 dairies, 2 swine operations, and 3 poultry operations. Currently there are no NPDES permitted discharges within the watershed. Norlina is the only incorporated town within the watershed with a population of approximately 1,000 residents. The Division of Soil and Water Conservation (DSWC) and Warren Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) will assess the local sources of sedimentation in the watershed beginning with those identified in the 2004 Stressor Survey. Development and implementation of a watershed restoration plan to address high-priority sources will be coordinated with the Division of Water Quality – Environmental Sciences Branch, the Division of Water Quality Basinwide Planning staff as well as the Ecosystem Enhancement Program staff. In June 2004 further assessment of the watershed took place in which a more in depth analysis was made. Similar conclusions were made regarding habitat degradation and biological impairment. This Stressor Survey also generated an explanation for the very high iron concentrations. Previously, the reports stated that 86% of the 50 samples taken between 1994 and Smith Creek Watershed Restoration Plan (May 2008) 13 1999 exceeded the water quality standard for iron. The Basinwide Assessments show that over the past fifteen years this conductivity trend has been increasing. Such high levels of iron are not unusual because of their presence in the local soils, however the increase of these soils entering into the surface water from sedimentation could be the source. Erosion and sedimentation from agriculture was identified as being the potential source for the impairment. Approximately 55% of the land use in the watershed is wooded, 43% open/undeveloped and 2% urban/residential. The Smith Creek Watershed has slopes from 2% to greater than 15% in areas. This variability in landscape results in the area being highly susceptible to erosion, primarily from agriculture. Most of the cropland is conventionally tilled which contributes a great amount of sedimentation into the Smith Creek. Smith Creek Watershed Restoration Plan (May 2008) 14 PROJECT GOALS Estimate of the Load Reductions An estimated 6,000-ton reduction of sediment is expected from the implementation of Best Management Practices (BMPs) within the Smith Creek Watershed. The majority of this reduction will be from implementing sediment reducing agronomic farming practices such as long-term no-till and sod based rotation. Vegetative and structural BMPs, such as field borders, grassed waterways, and heavy use protection areas will also play a vital role in reducing the amount of sedimentation entering into the creek and its tributaries. Such sediment controls can repair gulley erosion that may be occurring at the edge of the agricultural field. Implementation of livestock exclusion practices will also be a vital component of the success of this project. BMPs installed on sites where cattle have been allowed access to the streams may show the most benefits to water quality in the shortest timeframe. Excluding animals from the creek and repairing the streambanks with native vegetation and additional engineering work, as necessary, should decrease the levels of turbidity at the previous sample sites. While the practices applied are primarily aimed at reducing sediment losses, phosphorus and nitrogen losses reductions are anticipated as well (estimated to be 15,000 lbs and 25,000 lbs respectively according to PLAT/NLEW methods). Pasture Based BMP System A typical beef operation pasture based system in the Smith Creek Watershed consists of free- range animals that have open access to various watercourses through the watershed. The Warren SWCD will promote the use of pasture related BMPs to offset this water quality/sedimentation problem. In most cases BMPs such as livestock exclusion, heavy use protection areas and alternative watering systems along with rotational grazing will be implemented. It is estimated that the installation of livestock exclusion (fencing) alone will save a minimum of 12 to 23 tons per acre of soil from future degradation of the streambanks. Cropland BMPs Warren County producers in the Smith Creek Watershed are producing tobacco, cotton, soybeans, corn, small grain and hay crops. Warren SWCD has implemented an aggressive erosion control program on this watershed. Some of the BMPs installed on cropland and the estimated soil loss reduction are listed below. Table 1 contains estimates of tons of soil saved per acre when particular BMPs are implemented, on soils that are commonly found throughout the Smith Creek Watershed. Smith Creek Watershed Restoration Plan (May 2008) 15 Table 1: Estimated Tons of Soil Saved Per Acre When Particular BMPs are Implemented. Soil Classifications BMP IIe IIIe IVe Field Borders 15 23 28 Grassed Waterways 20 28 42 Diversion 10 18 26 Sod-Based Rotation 11 17 29 3 Year No-Till 13 19 30 5 year No-Till 15 22 33 Cropland Conversion 20 26 38 Fencing 15 24 30 Heavy Use Area Protection 16 25 33 Stock Trail 16 25 33 Note: Soil saved is estimated in tons per acre on three different soil classifications that are commonly found in Smith Creek Watershed. The following is a numerical rating system ranging from Ie to VIIIe approved and used by NRCS that describes particular land classes and land capabilities/limitations based on slope type and soil characteristics: Ie – Soils that have slight limitations that restrict their use IIe – Soils that have moderate limitations that reduce and restrict their use IIIe – Soils that have severe limitations and require strategic planning IVe – Soils that have very severe limitations and require a higher degree of planning Description of NPS Management Measures to Achieve Goals The goal of the watershed implementation plan is to reduce the amount of sedimentation that occurs in the Smith Creek watershed from agricultural operations. The overall purpose of this initiative is to reestablish the biological integrity of the waters so that they can become fully supporting for aquatic life and secondary recreation within the next five years. Management measures will rely heavily on installing sediment control practices approved by the NC Soil and Water Conservation Commission. A full description of the agricultural and stormwater BMPs that are recommended to reduce sedimentation in the Smith Creek Watershed can be found in Appendix C. The following management actions will need to be taken to successfully meet this goal: Control Sediment and Nutrients from Pasture Operations The objective of this action is to prevent future sedimentation and nutrient loading due to cattle access to surface waters. Those operations that allow cattle to use the stream as a water source and crossing will be the priority for technical assistance and financial assistance. Heavily overgrazed pastures adjacent to the creek and its tributaries will also be a parameter in the prioritization process. These areas will be corrected by installing BMPs that include but are not limited to the following: Smith Creek Watershed Restoration Plan (May 2008) 16 • Heavy use protection areas • Livestock exclusion system • Alternative water sources • Streambank stabilization • Stream crossings The Warren SWCD, Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) and the Division will provide technical assistance related to these practices. Financial support will be provided for the installation and 10-year maintenance of these practices, as funds are available. These funds are awarded based upon established water quality criteria such as proximity to the stream and total reduction of the sediment and nutrient contribution. Warren SWCD will be responsible for routine inspections of installed practices. Control Sediment and Nutrients from Row Crop Operations The objective of this action is to prevent future sedimentation and nutrient loading from row crop agricultural fields. Farms that are currently not practicing crop residue management and conservation tillage, as well as those sites that have severe gully erosion occurring on their fields will be placed as priority sites. These areas will be improved by installing BMPs that include but are not limited to the following: • Sod based rotation • Long-term no till • Field borders • Streambank stabilization • Filter strips • Grassed waterways The Warren SWCD, NRCS and the Division will provide technical assistance related to these practices. Financial support will be provided for the installation and maintenance of these practices, as funds are available. These funds are awarded based upon established water quality criteria such as proximity to the stream, total reduction of the sediment and nutrient contribution and wildlife benefits. Warren SWCD will be responsible for routine spot checks of installed practices. Identify Water Flow Management Strategies Smith Creek watershed is a rural community that is composed of primarily agriculture and forest land. In such an environment it is not uncommon for storm debris to block the natural drainage ways causing water flow to decline or stop all together. An excessive beaver population can also contribute to conditions that cause water stagnation. Warren County is a participating member of the Beaver Management Assistance Program (B-MAP). This program is not intended to eradicate the entire beaver population, however the program will reduce the population at a particular site to prevent adverse environmental and negative economic problems. The Warren Smith Creek Watershed Restoration Plan (May 2008) 17 SWCD will coordinate efforts to address such sites so that it would decrease flooding hazards as well as increase the flow of Smith Creek. Coordinate Streambank Stabilization Projects Although it has been suggested that the primary source of the sedimentation in the watershed is agricultural operations, the Division and the Warren SWCD are committed to identifying sites along Smith Creek and its tributaries in which streambank stabilization is required. In many cases, the natural stream channel may be deteriorating because of the scouring affect of unusual storm events. On sites where cattle may have been allowed access to the creek, streambank reconstruction and stabilization may be required. When such instances occur, the Warren SWCD will work diligently to initiate and oversee the repairs of the creek. Partnering agencies such as the NRCS, the Division of Soil and Water Conservation and the Ecosystem Enhancement Program may be contacted to provide required engineering assistance to properly stabilize the area. Smith Creek Watershed Restoration Plan (May 2008) 18 IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAM Schedule for Implementing the NPS Management Measures Landowner applications for financial assistance will be accepted until September, on an annual basis. The next stage will be to prioritize each application based upon water quality benefits expected from the desired BMPs. Installation of BMPs will continue throughout the year pending weather conditions. Table 2 contains the schedule for implementing BMPs in the Smith Creek Watershed. Table 3 provides a summary of BMPs to be installed in the Smith Creek Watershed, by tributary. Table 2: Schedule for Implementing Best Management Practices in the Smith Creek Watershed. Practice Code BMP Sep- Dec 2005 Jan- Jul 2006 Aug- Dec 2006 Jan-Dec 2007 Jan-Jul 2008 Totals 382 Fencing 500’ 1,000’ 2,000’ 5,000’ 3,000’ 11,500’ 561 Heavy Use Protection 1 ac. 0.5 ac. 0.5 ac. 0.5 ac. 1 ac. 3.5 ac. 642 Well 2 3 2 7 614 Trough/Tank 6 6 9 10 10 41 575 Stock Trail 100’ 200’ 50’ 200’ 100’ 650’ 316 Poultry Composter 1 1 386 Field Border 2,000’ 2,500’ 2,000’ 2,000’ 2,000’ 10,500’ 412 Grassed Waterway 1.5 ac. 1.5 ac. 1 ac. 0.5 ac. 0.5 ac. 5 ac. 362 Diversion 2,000’ 2,000’ 327 Cropland Conversion 10 ac. 10 ac. 35 ac. 50 ac. 75 ac. 180 ac. 328 Sod-Based Rotation 30 ac. 25 ac. 25 ac. 75 ac. 50 ac. 205 ac. 328 3 yr. No-Till 20 ac. 20 ac. 75 ac. 300 ac. 85 ac. 500 ac. 778 5 yr. No-Till 50 ac. 100 ac. 250 ac. 100 ac. 500 ac. Smith Creek Watershed Restoration Plan (May 2008) 19 Table 3: Summary of the Best Management Practices to be Installed in the Smith Creek Watershed, by Tributary. Measurable Milestones Annual progress reports will be utilized to determine whether objectives are being met. This information will include BMPs installed during the current cycle as well as to date. Projects that have been planned but not yet implemented will be reported to demonstrate future water quality benefits. Data will be included regarding the amount of sediment that has been reduced due to the implementation of this project. Nitrogen and Phosphorus reductions will also be included. Monetary comparisons between amounts that were used from cost share funding verses actual installation costs will be a component of our accountability. The change in water quality improvements will be documented throughout the project with the assistance of DWQ- Environmental Sciences Section (ESS) and their monitoring services. Criteria for Determining Loading Reductions The Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation formula (RUSLE) will be used to determine the tons of soil lost prior to BMP installation as well as after. RUSLE takes into consideration the soil type of the site, slope, cropping sequence and residue management practices. The North Carolina Agricultural Nutrient Assessment Tool (NCANAT) will be utilized to determine the amount of Nitrogen and Phosphorus reduction that will be achieved. This accountability tool utilizes the inputs for RUSLE as well as the following data to calculate the estimated reductions: • Nitrogen uptake efficiencies for major crops in NC • Nutrient reduction credits for installed BMPs Practice Code BMP Smith Creek Ellington Branch Newman’s Creek Cabin Branch Terrapin Creek Malone’s Creek Blue Mud Creek Reedy Branch 382 Fencing 5,000’ 1,000’ 1,000’ 1,000’ 1,000’ 1,000’ 1,000’ n/a 561 Heavy Use Protection 0.5 ac. 0.5 ac. 0.5 ac. 0.5 ac. 0.5 ac. 0.5 ac. 0.5 ac. n/a 642 Well 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 n/a 614 Trough/Tank 5 4 7 5 8 5 7 n/a 575 Stock Trail 50’ 100’ 75’ 50’ 200’ 100’ 75’ n/a 316 Poultry Composter n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a 1 n/a n/a 386 Field Border 1,500’ 1,500’ 1,000’ 1,000’ 2,000’ 2,000’ 500’ 1,000’ 412 Grassed Waterway 0.5 ac. 0.5 ac. 0.5 ac. 1 ac. 1 ac. 0.5 ac. 0.5 ac. 0.5 ac. 362 Diversion n/a n/a n/a 3,000’ n/a n/a n/a n/a 327 Cropland Conversion 10 ac. 15 ac. 15 ac. 20 ac. 10 ac. 10 ac. 75 ac. 25 ac. 328 Sod-Based Rotation 75 ac. 10 ac. 15 ac. 15 ac. 30 ac. 15 ac. 10 ac. 20 ac. 328 3 yr. No-Till 50 ac. 50 ac. 50 ac. 50 ac. 75 ac. 75 ac. 75 ac. 75 ac. 778 5-yr. No-Till 100 ac. 50 ac. 50 ac. 75 ac. 50 ac. 50 ac. 100 ac. 25 ac. Smith Creek Watershed Restoration Plan (May 2008) 20 • Fertilization rates Appendix D contains documentation for Gully Erosion Computation and the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation Worksheet. Water Quality Monitoring An agricultural sediment baseline was determined for each site. This data enabled a baseline to be established and will allow for a reduction to be calculated. Each contract will be required to maintain the BMPs per the Soil and Water Commission Standards/NRCS Standards. These sites will also be included in annual spot checks to assure compliance. Each site will be mapped to demonstrate the location and proximity to Smith Creek and its tributaries. This information will be provided to the Division of Water Quality to contribute to their Roanoke Basinwide Planning Program. The Environmental Science Branch will also be able to utilize this information to provide an explanation of future water quality monitoring data. Education and Outreach The overall goal of the community education program in the Smith Creek watershed is to develop an atmosphere that encourages long-term protection and improvement of water resources in the watershed (see Appendix E for a copy of the educational brochures). Various educational opportunities will be included within the implementation phase of the project that will include the following objectives: • Increase public awareness of the value of clean water • Increase public awareness of how common activities contribute to nonpoint source pollution and poor water quality • Increase public awareness of how conservation practices can reduce negative impacts on water quality and habitat degradation • Increase public awareness of how the protection of water quality can contribute to the environmental and economic benefits of the watershed. Education Activities • Ecology Field Days: Warren SWCD is committed to their annual environmental field days in which they educate school age children on the benefits of conservation, agricultural BMPs and rural/urban BMPs. • Annual Agricultural Outreach Event: A joint effort with NRCS, Farm Service Agency and the Warren SWCD and involves organizing an annual dinner for the agricultural community. Each represented agency promotes the programs and services that they offer as well as update the audience on the status of current projects. Smith Creek Watershed Restoration Plan (May 2008) 21 • Warren County Government Day: Sponsored by Warren County, each department has the opportunity to participate by including a booth in the event. The Warren SWCD educates citizens about their services as well as rural/urban conservation practices. • Cost Share Tour: Warren SWCD sponsors this event to educate the local and state leaders and officials on the agricultural initiatives that are occurring within Warren County. • Warren County High School Agriculture Tours: This unique opportunity allows the Warren SWCD staff to be included in the Agriculture Science curriculum. Staff provides education information in a classroom setting to the students and then takes them on field tours to see conservation at work. The information that is covered in the lesson includes conservation, stream bank protection, erosion control and buffers. • Annual Contests: Each year the Warren SWCD promotes Poster contests for grades 3-6; Essay contests and Public Speaking Contests for grades 7-8. Each year the NC Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts establishes a current environmental issue as the topic. • NC Envirothon: The Warren SWCD promotes high school teams of 5 students to participate in the NC Envirothon. This program tests the knowledge and skills of the team on the following subjects: Forestry, Aquatics, Soils, Current Environmental Issues, and Wildlife. The SWCD staff assists the students throughout the school year in educating and training their teams on these topics. This hands-on approach to learning has proven to be a great opportunity for all students and staff. Educational activities completed to date as part of this project include: • October 26, 2006: During the annual USDA Outreach meeting, Larry West spoke briefly about the Smith Creek Watershed Project to the crowd of 185 people who were in attendance. • November 1, 2006: Larry West conducted a slide presentation to the local High School FFA/agricultural class illustrating BMPs that were going to be installed in the Smith Creek Watershed. • November 14, 2006: Larry West conducted a BMP field tour with the local High School FFA/agricultural class students that showcased multiple farm sites exclusively in the Smith Creek Watershed. Approximately 50 students participated in the Smith Creek Watershed BMP tour. Smith Creek Educational Component 1. Each September at the Warren County Agricultural Fair. Warren SWCD has an exhibit that offers pamphlets developed just for Smith Creek. Smith Creek Watershed Restoration Plan (May 2008) 22 2. Each October Warren SWCD participates in USDA Outreach meeting. The SWCD provides information concerning Smith Creek at this meeting. Approximately 175 people attend this meeting 3. Warren SWCD submits informational articles to local newspapers notifying the public of the availability of technical and financial assistance. 4. Warren SWCD conducts two (2) field trips per year with local high school agricultural class showcasing installed BMPs on farmland in Smith Creek. Approximately 65 students participate on each field trip. 5. Warren SWCD Director attends the Warren County Cattlemen Association meeting explaining the availability of technical and financial assistance for BMPs in Smith Creek. Approximately 15 members are present at each meeting. 6. Warren SWCD Director attends annual Farmers night held each April to speak on issues in Smith Creek. Approximately 95 people attend this meeting. 7. Warren SWCD spends numerous hours making personal contacts with Smith Creek landowners promoting cost share programs. 8. Warren SWCD discusses environmental plans with other county agencies that address homeowners such as Public Works and Code Enforcement. Estimate of the Technical and Financial Assistance Needed Section 319 Agricultural Sediment Initiative Estimated technical assistance that will be needed to effectively implement this project is $32,625. However the Warren SWCD is providing their services without reimbursement to implement this project. An additional $108,000 will be needed to assist landowners in installing BMPs on priority sites. The Warren SWCD has placed this watershed as a priority on their NC Agriculture Cost Share Strategy Plan. A total of $130,000 was requested to adequately fund the Smith Creek Agricultural Sediment Initiative and was awarded via the Section 319 Program beginning FY06 (July 15, 2005). The programs to implement the grant will be promoted by conducting BMP field tours, developing media articles, conducting workshops at local high school agricultural class, conducting presentations to local cattleman's association, civic groups, local business meetings and other commodities groups as deemed necessary. It is estimated that 950 hours will be dedicated to this task. The Warren SWCD anticipates that assistance in the planning, designing, installation and certification process will consist of a combined 1,920 hours from the Warren SWCD, NRCS Soil Survey office, Warrenton NRCS and NRCS Area II Staff. Smith Creek Watershed Restoration Plan (May 2008) 23 It is estimated that a total of 2,870 hours with a cost of $65,000 will be required to meet the objectives described above. Additional Conservation Measures and Funding Needed in the Smith Creek Watershed Table 4 contains a summary of the sites located in the Smith Creek watershed that need conservation measures installed in addition to the BMPs implemented through this Section 319 Agricultural Sediment Initiative grant project. The sites correspond to the ones contained in Appendix B of this plan with photos and site description. Table 4: Summary of the Best Management Practices that Need to be Installed in Addition to the BMPs implemented through this Section 319 Agricultural Sediment Initiative Project. Site BMP Estimated Cost 1 0.75 ac. grassed waterway $1,825 2 4,000 ft. livestock exclusion fencing $3,750 2 2 water troughs $1,200 2 1 well $6,000 2 Heavy use protection area $2,400 3 6,000 ft. livestock exclusion fencing $5,720 3 4 water troughs $2,400 3 2 wells $12,000 3 Stream crossing $6,000 4 5,000 ft. livestock exclusion fencing $4,688 4 2 wells $12,000 4 6 water troughs $3,600 4 Stream crossing $6,000 4 Stock trail $4,000 5 3,000 ft. livestock exclusion fencing $2,812 5 1 well $6,000 5 3 water troughs $1,800 5 Heavy use protection area $3,000 5 Stock trail $2,500 6 3,000 ft. livestock exclusion fencing $2,812 6 1 well $6,000 6 Heavy use protection area $5,000 6 3 water troughs $1,800 7 13 ac. cropland conversion $2,194 8 40 ac. cropland conversion $6,750 9 3,000 ft. agricultural road stabilization $10,000 10 0.75 ac. grassed waterway $1,825 11 Heavy use protection area $6,000 Total $130,076 The estimated cost is representative of the 75% cost share rate. These sites need to be addressed in Smith Creek. However, the problem in this watershed (and most other ones) is that most Smith Creek Watershed Restoration Plan (May 2008) 24 landowners do not have the initial money to pay for completed conservation practices and wait for the reimbursement from conservation agencies. Sites 1 through 11 just represent a snapshot of the Smith Creek watershed. It is not realistic to think that all conservation issues will be resolved in any impaired watershed. Lack of money is the driving factor, but sometimes the landowner just is not interested in doing what is environmentally sound. But, the Smith Creek project (Phases I and II) will make a positive impact on the water quality in this watershed. Smith Creek Watershed Restoration Plan (May 2008) 25 BUDGET SUMMARY This project was funded under the United States Environmental Protection Agency Section 319 Grant Program, administered by North Carolina Division of Water Quality. Table 5 contains the budget summary for the Smith Creek Watershed Project. While the project was underway, the Warren Soil and Water Conservation District decided to do the majority of the work for the Watershed Restoration Plan instead of subcontracting the work out to a consultant. This resulted in the WRP being done at a cost less than originally anticipated and therefore the remaining money was moved to the Construction (BMPs) line item. This line item change allowed more Best Management Practices to be implemented, therefore increasing the water quality benefits in the Smith Creek Watershed. Table 5: Budget Summary for the Smith Creek Watershed Project. Description Original 319 Expenditures Final 319 Expenditures* Match Expenditures** Salary & Benefits $0 $0 $12,213 Travel $0 $0 $300 Equipment $5,000 $5,000 $0 Supplies $3,000 $3,000 $0 Education $0 $0 $0 Construction (BMPs) $72,000 $108,000 $82,450 Other (WRP) $50,000 $14,000 $0 Totals $130,000 $130,000 $94,963 * Final 319 Expenditures are based on the approved project budget at the time this Watershed Restoration Plan was completed. ** Match Expenditures represent the total as of the date of this Watershed Restoration Plan. Smith Creek Watershed Restoration Plan (May 2008) 26 REFERENCES AND LITERATURE CITED Final North Carolina Water Quality Assessment and Impaired Waters List (2002 Integrated 305(b) and 303(d) Report). Final North Carolina Water Quality Assessment and Impaired Waters List (2004 Integrated 305(b) and 303(d) Report). Approved November 2006. Final North Carolina Water Quality Assessment and Impaired Waters List (2006 Integrated 305(b) and 303(d) Report). Approved May 17, 2007. Roanoke River Basinwide Water Quality Plan, Division of Water Quality, NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources, 2001. Roanoke River Basinwide Water Quality Plan, Division of Water Quality, NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources, September 2006. Memorandum from Kurt Trumbower of the North Carolina Division of Water Quality Environmental Sciences Branch to Michelle Woolfolk and Trish MacPherson, dated October 11, 2004 regarding 2004 Stressor Surveys for the Roanoke River Basin, including Smith Creek. Memorandum from Sandy Mort of the North Carolina Division of Water Quality Environmental Sciences Section Aquatic Toxicology Unit to Michelle Woolfolk of DWQ Modeling/TMDL Unit, dated October 27, 2004 regarding Stressor Study Toxicity Screening Report. Memorandum from Bill Crouch of the North Carolina Division of Water Quality Biological Assessment Unit to Michelle Woolfolk of DWQ Modeling/TMDL Unit, dated December 16, 2004 regarding Smith Creek (ROA 07) TMDL Stressor Study, April 2004. Warren County – 2022, Comprehensive Development Plan (Land Use Plan), prepared by the Kerr-Tar Regional Council of Governments Planning Staff, adopted March 11, 2002.