Clear Creek Watershed Enhancement Project
Date: July 16, 2009
Contacts: James Martin - Iowa Co. or Matt McAndrew - Johnson Co.
Phone: 319-668-2359 or 319-337-2322 ext.3
Email: james.martin@ia.nacdnet.net or matt.mcandrew@ia.nacdnet.net

AUGUST FIELD DAY TO EXPLORE TREE PLANTINGS
Stream buffers slow erosion, reduce flood damages, help water quality

IOWA CITY — Johnson County residents can learn how to protect ponds, lakes, streams or other surface waters on their property with an Aug. 4 field day exploring buffer tree plantings. The field day, presented by the Clear Creek Watershed Enhancement Project, will visit three Johnson County streamside buffer tree plantings from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.. The event, which includes a light meal, will start at the Jim Sueppel farm, located just minutes from Iowa City at 3085 Hwy 1 West.

Buffers planted in the area along streams, lakes and wetlands – called the riparian area – can reduce sediment, nutrients, pesticides and other contaminants from running off the land and into the water. Riparian buffers are the grasses, trees and shrubs that grow along the water’s edge that control erosion and help keep water clean.

Riparian buffers help improve fish and wildlife habitat and can reduce flooding and soil erosion by slowing water movement. Healthy riparian areas reduce water pollution by filtering sediment, fertilizers, pesticides and other potential pollutants from runoff before it reaches streams.

Topics and speakers at the field day will include:
A. Tree plantings: Visit two 10-year-old plantings, and one 5-year-old planting. Learn first-hand from the experiences of three Johnson County landowners and see the results of different managements. B. Tree and shrub selection, maintenance: Discuss tree and shrub selection and maintenance with Mark Vitosh, DNR Forester, and Bob Petrezelka, local tree contractor. C. Stream management for water quality: Dr. Tom Isenhart, Iowa State University professor, will discuss the latest in stream ecosystem management concepts to treat specific situations and improve water quality. D. Funding assistance for planting buffers: Learn if your land qualifies for a government cost-share program or other funding opportunities. Soil and Water Conservation District staff will discuss several funding options.

To attend, RSVP to Matt McAndrew at (319) 337-2322 (Ext.3) by Friday, July 31.