We’re looking for concerned citizens in the Central Muscatatuck Watershed and the surrounding communities to help us improve and sustain the watershed.

 

What is the Project: The central Muscatatuck Watershed Project is a regional initiative in Southeastern Indiana working to improve and sustain water quality in a four county area including Jackson, Jefferson, Jennings, Ripley and Scott Counties. The project is a two year 319 grant that is funded by Historic Hoosier Hills RC&D.

 

Our Vision:   “To improve and sustain water quality within the Central Muscatatuck Watershed in harmony with all watershed uses”

 

Goals and Objectives:  Develop a watershed management plan and an inventory of the watershed. Conduct water quality monitoring both professional and volunteer Hoosier Riverwatch. And most importantly to create community involvement through education, volunteering, and in-kind matching of grant funds.

 

Planned Activities: River and lake cleanups, water quality monitoring, bi-monthly steering committee meetings, and educational events throughout the watershed.

 

Funding: A two year non-point source pollution 319 grant from IDEM sponsored by Historic Hoosier Hills RC&D for $141,600.00. Funds are being used to employ a watershed coordinator, monitor water quality, map the watershed, and develop a watershed management plan. Required in-kind matching for the project is being sought from local entities.

 

What’s your place and commitment?

•       Steering Committee members: The steering committee discusses and formulates decisions for the watershed plan. The committee members will serve a two year term and meet every other month (or more frequent when necessary). We currently need more people willing to commit to the steering committee.
•        Subcommittee members: These people can work with the committee of their choice (Planning, Assessment, or Outreach) for a term of a year or more if willing. Committees may need to meet frequently during some phases of the project and only the committee chair is expected to attend the steering committee meeting, although all are welcome.
•     Project Volunteers: Volunteers will participate in an activity such as stream assessment, trash pickup, outreach project, on the day of the event. The coordinator will let you know when the events are planned.

What’s in it for you? As a member of the Central Muscatatuck Project you can: Be a voice for citizens of your community, have the satisfaction of helping to restore natural resources in the watershed, be recognized as a community leader, learn more about water quality resources and protection, contribute your knowledge and skills,  and most importantly to meet and work with great folks and have a lot of FUN!

 

Want more info? Call Robert Miller at 812-273-2070 x3, e-mail rob.miller@in.nacdnet.net, or just drop into the Jefferson County SWCD office.