This project seeks to create efficiencies in watershed management by: 1) working in 12 priority watersheds in the Mississippi River Basin with documented water impairments and stressors; 2) conducting baseline social science assessments in these watersheds of current on-farm practices, awareness of water quality issues, attitudes toward modified management practices and capacity to modify management in ways that will lead to achievement of water quality goals while maintaining farm productivity; and 3) developing outreach efforts based on social assessment; and 4) evaluating environmental and social impacts after 3-5 years of effort and modification of approaches based on results.

Project Results

Beneficiaries: Farmers will benefit from a better understanding of the issues they are facing and better assistance in adapting agricultural practices to meet water quality and agricultural production goals. State and federal agencies responsible for water quality and agricultural productivity, and others providing leadership in watershed management projects will benefit from information that will improve communication with farmers. Outcomes: Accelerated changes to farm management leading to improved water quality in 12 priority watersheds in the Mississippi River Basin.