In 2021 and 2022, American Farmland Trust provided technical assistance and outreach in the Upper Macoupin Creek watershed, increasing the implementation of practices that improve soil health, reduce nutrient loads, and provide economic benefits to local farms. Outreach conducted in 2021 reached 141 people, including a successful workshop focused on nutrient management, and field days featuring soil health practices.
Since 2015, the partnership has invested more than $2.8 million in conservation practices through RCPP and MRBI funding. This amount was spread out over 100 contracts and improved management on 31,000 acres.
| Load Reductions |
Phosphorus | 6,704 lbs./year |
Nitrogen | 45,286 lbs./year |
Sediment | 9,217 tons/year |
Table summarizes nutrient and sediment reductions achieved through conservation practices implemented between 2016-22.
Based on water quality analysis conducted by the U.S. Geological Survey over the project period, the study area portion of the Upper Macoupin Creek watershed attenuated nitrate and total phosphorus yields by 54% and 21%, respectively; however, the yield of suspended sediment increased by 15% from inputs within the study area.
For more information, see farmland.org/project/umc.
