AGRICULTURAL WATER QUALITY PROGRAM

Supporting Farmers
Protecting Our Water

The Agricultural Water Quality Area Plan sets guidelines for minimizing pollution from agricultural sources into creeks and rivers. The plan was developed in cooperation with Oregon Department of Agriculture, Yamhill and Polk County SWCDs, and a local advisory committee of local landowners.

At the District, we work with rural landowners to prevent erosion of sediment and nutrients (chemicals, manure, etc.) into our streams and rivers as well as re-establishing riparian buffers through promoting Best Management Practices.

We strive to work with landowners and operators to reduce their impact on water quality that benefits both landowners and the land.

Hedgerow planted to minimize runoff and drift. Hedgerows also provide habitat for wildlife and beneficial insects.

Enhance water quality, addressing state and federal standards

Encourage voluntary conservation efforts by landowners

Allow the flexibility to choose appropriate methods to meet water quality goals

How We Help

  • Conduct education programs to inform operators of water quality issues and conservation solutions
  • Provide enforcement provisions for landowners, operators, or occupiers who aren’t in compliance with water quality standards
  • Discuss best management practices
Additional Resources

Financial Support

  • Support is available through National Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) programs to address water quality, water quantity and management of nutrient and pesticide practices
  • The NRCS Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program supports landowners in improving streamside areas to increase biological function and filter upland contaminants

Project Ideas, Examples, & Successes

Heavy use areas help landowners to avoid overgrazing and allow pastures to rest throughout the winter months. This reduces soil compaction, erosion and weed competition.

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Heavy use areas help landowners to avoid overgrazing and allow pastures to rest throughout the winter months. This reduces soil compaction, erosion and weed competition.

Hedgerow planted to minimize runoff and drift. Hedgerows also provide habitat for wildlife and beneficial insects.

agricultural-water-quality-hedgerow-planted

Hedgerow planted to minimize runoff and drift. Hedgerows also provide habitat for wildlife and beneficial insects.

Manure storage building that allows cattle operation to store manure without runoff and apply when the pastures need it.

agricultural-water-quality-manure-storage-building

Manure storage building that allows cattle operation to store manure without runoff and apply when the pastures need it.

Mulching is a cheap and simple erosion prevention practice. Covering bare ground with mulch helps to protect the soil from rain impact.

agricultural-water-quality-mulching-450×800

Mulching is a cheap and simple erosion prevention practice. Covering bare ground with mulch helps to protect the soil from rain impact.

Got a question?
Talk to a conservationist!

We are here to connect you to the resources you need. Feel free to reach out if you have a question, concern, or want to request a site visit.

GET IN TOUCH WITH OUR TEAM OF CONSERVATION EXPERTS TODAY.