Watershed-Based Implementation Funding: Root River SWCD

Watershed-Based Implementation Funding from BWSR supported a $701,000 project near Caledonia designed to reduce flood damage; curb sediment-loading to Crooked Creek, a designated trout stream; protect roads and agricultural land; and improve wildlife habitat. The Root River One Watershed, One Plan identified the project as a priority. Work included a 28-foot-tall earthen dam. Project partners included the Root River SWCD, the Crooked Creek Watershed District, Houston County, and the Technical Service Area. Funding included $435,000 in WBIF, which is fully funded by the Clean Water Fund; $281,000 in local taxpayer levy dollars from the watershed district, and $40,000 in federal American Rescue Plan funds via Houston County. The bulk of the construction was completed in 2021. The most serious flooding occurred in 2007. Flooding occurred again in 2016 and 2018. A landowner, the watershed district treasurer and the SWCD manager discuss how WBIF played a role in the project. Photos courtesy of the Root River SWCD