The program officially started July 1, 2003, and a question often asked was "What is an AgNPS SALT?"  This question is best and most comprehensively answered by visiting the DNR AgNPS SALT page.  In general, it refers to pollution that cannot be traced to any one source and is more difficult to control.  The AgNPS SALT Program sponsors locally led, watershed-based projects that focus on reducing agricultural nonpoint source water pollution. It allows Soil and Water Conservation Districts to direct technical and financial assistance to landowners with land identified and prioritized by the district as problem areas within the watershed.

In securing an AgNPS SALT for the County, SWCD staff talked to landowners, examined past cost share claims, and received input from the SWCD Board. After much study and discussion, the District Board decided to apply for a grant for the Dry Auglaize – Goodwin Hollow watersheds. Two meetings were held with watershed landowners to determine interest, confirm known problems, and identify new landowner concerns. Three main areas of concern were identified: agriculture, the Lebanon Wastewater Facility, and rural development. Agriculture concerns centered around dairy, livestock, and sinkholes. It was strongly felt that many dairies did not have adequate manure storage facilities or a means to distribute the accumulated manure evenly over a farm. It was also noted that dairies generate a sizeable amount of waste and chemicals from the milk barn. Dairies also share many of the same problems of livestock producers: soil erosion caused by overgrazing, depleted riparian vegetation, and stream bank erosion. On many farms, sinkholes, used as landfills, could lead to groundwater pollution that was harmful to both drinking water sources and various endangered species. The problems with the Lebanon Wastewater Facility are well documented. It was also felt that with all the construction being done in the county more could be done at building sites to prevent erosion and over-fertilization of lawns during the construction process.

Specific goals in terms of acres treated, feet applied, and number built were established. To address concerns and meet goals, a number of practices were budgeted that fall within the AgNPS SALT guidelines.  The SALT will provide technical assistance and / or funds to

§ build four animal waste systems

§ implement best management practices (BMP’s) to

o manage animal waste

o assure proper grazing

o eliminate construction site soil loss

o apply fertilizer at recommended rates

§ reduce erosion by

o improving ground cover

o increasing forage diversity

o improving grazing management

§ reduce stream bank erosion by

o encouraging livestock exclusion through fencing

o creating riparian buffers

o establishing filter strips

o working cooperatively with the Missouri Department of Conservation to stabilize eroding stream banks,

and

§ work with the Lebanon Wastewater Facility, where applicable, to eliminate the over production of pollutants in the watershed

§ provide technical assistance to developers and landowners to

o prevent onsite soil erosion

o prevent over fertilization.

To administer the SALT and provide cost-share, the District will receive $750,000.00 over seven years. The AgNPS SALT provides a unique and limited opportunity to watershed residents to apply water quality improving practices on their farms with cost-share dollars not normally available and to make a major impact on the water quality in their own watershed. The District will partner with the Missouri Department of Conservation  on providing additional funds for certain practices. District cost-share practices will remain available throughout the SALT.   Jimmie Lee Haines will serve as Project Manager.  If you live in one of the designated watersheds and would like additional information or assistance, contact Jimmie at 417 532-6305 (Ext. 118).

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