WRAPS coordinator gives updated report to commission
Staff reporter
WRAPS coordinator Peggy Blackman reported Friday to Marion County Commission that the county program will only receive a portion of the requested grant money.
The Watershed Restoration and Protection Strategy coordinator had requested $251,000 for 2007 but only will receive $190,000. She explained that Kansas Department of Health and Environment had cut funds for implementation of programs which will limit conservation practices within the watershed but not a study of Marion Reservoir.
A study will be conducted to determine ways to counteract sediment and pollution issues that are occurring at the reservoir. By implementing best management practices upstream from the reservoir could reduce additional sediment issues.
Blackman also reported the county could participate in a stream bank erosion project by Durham where the county can provide labor which would count as in-kind labor toward the financial commitment the county previously made.
A second project, on 190th Road near the Rex Siebert residence, has severe erosion along the bank that is affecting the county's road. Blackman has applied for a 70 percent cost-share grant to pay for the project.
An updated and revised plan for the reservoir WRAPS program was presented to the commission. Blackman said she would like to include the county surface water board in programs.
Commission chairman Dan Holub said before implementing the county water board, a mediation session was planned between officials. He also said congressional assistance was needed.
Commissioner Randy Dallke asked if there was a watershed above or upstream from the reservoir. Blackman said there was not. Holub asked if there could be. Blackman said that would need to be determined.
Other options besides dredging the reservoir will be considered after the study is completed with the prime issue being the reduction of sediment that comes into the body of water.
Blackman also reported that Marion, McPherson, and Harvey county conservation districts are combining resources to hire a buffer coordinator.
