Arkansas

Conservation

Partnership

Accomplishment

Report 2003

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

101 East Capitol Avenue 

Little Rock, Arkansas 72201
 The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Arkansas Conservation Partnership (ACP) prohibit 

discrimination in all their programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, 

disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all 

programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information 

(Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and 

TDD). 

 To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326W, Whitten 

Building, 14th and Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call (202) 720-5964 (voice and 

TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. 

January 1, 2004 

Dear Member of Congress and Friend: 

 The Arkansas Conservation Partnership began in 1992 as a unified approach to solving 

natural resource problems. The partnership is comprised of the: 

 • Arkansas Association of Conservation Districts 

 • Arkansas Association of Conservation Districts Employees

 • Arkansas Association of Resource Conservation and Development Councils

 • Arkansas Forestry Commission 

 • Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

 • University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service 

 • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff 

 • U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service

 The Conservation Partnership is committed to using the strengths of each organization. It 

promotes the protection and conservation of natural resources through voluntary implementation 

of conservation practices, applied technical assistance, and cost-share incentives through 

conservation districts. This locally-led partnership empowers every rural and urban citizen to 

contribute in protecting and conserving Arkansas’ soil and water resources. 

 As conservation leaders we want every Arkansan to know that we are committed to 

continuing this effort and the job of natural resource conservation in The Natural State. 

 This report is intended to provide information about conservation activities throughout 

Arkansas. In this report, conservation activities are divided by congressional district with the 

current status of state and federal projects noted. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate 

to call any Arkansas Conservation Partnership member. Directories are provided at the end of 

this report.

Debbie Moreland 

President, AACD 

J. Randy Young 

Executive Director, 

ASWCC 

Kalven L. Trice 

State Conservationist, 

NRCS 

Sharon Underwood 

President, AACDE 

Dr. Ivory W. Lyles 

Associate Vice 

President 

for AgricultureExtension, CES 

Dr. Jacqueline W. 

McCray 

Dean/Director, 

UAPB-CEP 

Wes Fowler 

President, AARC&D 

John Shannon 

State Forester, AFC 

Arkansas 

Conservation

Partnership
Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Table of Contents 

 Page

First Congressional District 

Introduction 1-1 

Natural Resources Conservation Service Projects 1-3 

Arkansas Association of Resource Conservation and Development Council Projects 1-15 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission Projects 1-21 

Arkansas Association of Conservation Districts (Contributions) 1-30 

Second Congressional District 

Introduction 2-1 

Natural Resources Conservation Service Projects 2-3 

Arkansas Association of Resource Conservation and Development Council Projects 2-8 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission Projects 2-11 

Arkansas Association of Conservation Districts (Contributions) 2-17 

Third Congressional District 

Introduction 3-1 

Natural Resources Conservation Service Projects 3-3 

Arkansas Association of Resource Conservation and Development Council Projects 3-7 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission Projects 3-12 

Arkansas Association of Conservation Districts (Contributions) 3-22 

Fourth Congressional District 

Introduction 4-1 

Natural Resources Conservation Service Projects 4-3 

Arkansas Association of Resource Conservation and Development Council Projects 4-13 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission Projects 4-17 

Arkansas Association of Conservation Districts (Contributions) 4-25 

Statewide Activities 

Natural Resources Conservation Service Projects 5-2 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission Projects 5-14 

Arkansas Association of Conservation Districts (Contributions) 5-25 

Directories 

The Arkansas Conservation Partnership Leadership A-1 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission A-2 

Arkansas Association of Conservation Districts Officers and Area Presidents A-3 

Arkansas Association of Conservation Districts Chairpersons A-4 

Arkansas Association of Resource Conservation and Development Councils A-8 

Natural Resources Conservation Service A-10 
The Honorable

Marion Berry

1stCongressional District
Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

First Congressional District 

Table of Contents 

 Page

Introduction 1-1 

Census of Agriculture Data 1-2 

Natural Resources Conservation Service 

 Bayou Meto 1-3 

 Big Slough Watershed 1-4 

 Boydsville Lake 1-5 

 Buffalo River Tributaries Watershed 1-6 

 Departee Creek Watershed 1-7 

 Eastern Arkansas Region Comprehensive Study--Grand Prairie Reevaluation 1-8 

 Fourche Creek Watershed 1-9 

 Hog Tusk Comprehensive Community Watershed Development 1-10 

 Northeast Arkansas Irrigation Conservation Project 1-11 

 North Prairie County Irrigation Project 1-12 

 Poinsett Watershed (Structural) 1-13 

 Farm Bill Programs 1-14 

Arkansas Association of Resource Conservation and Development Council Activities 1-15 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

 Water, Wastewater, Solid Waste, etc., Funded Projects 1-21 

 Nonpoint Source Projects Currently Being Funded 1-26 

Arkansas Association of Conservation Districts (Contributions) 1-30 
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Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

First Congressional District 

Introduction 

Farmers in the First Congressional District (26 counties and 17,154 square miles) continue to 

raise concerns about future sources of irrigation water. Traditional crops such as rice, cotton and 

soybeans are the predominant agricultural crops produced within the District. Irrigation water is 

a necessity for continued agricultural production in this area of Arkansas. 

Ground water decline is the most critical natural resource issue in the region. Ground water 

continues to decline at alarming rates. The declines have been in excess of one foot per year and, 

in some cases, more than two feet per year in Arkansas, Craighead, Cross, Jackson, Lonoke, 

Poinsett, Prairie, St. Francis and Woodruff counties. Areas in six counties of central and eastern 

Arkansas were designated Critical Ground Water Depletion Areas by the Arkansas Soil and 

Water Conservation Commission. 

Three regional irrigation water districts have been approved by the state and include the Bayou 

Meto, North Prairie County and White River irrigation districts. The Memphis District of the 

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has the authority to move the Grand Prairie Irrigation Project to 

construction. The design of the pumping plant is complete. The Natural Resources Conservation 

Service has planned, surveyed and designed approximately $34 million of on-farm conservation 

practices. On-farm construction activities are underway and approximately $7 million in federal 

cost-share payments have been made for completed practices. The Arkansas Conservation 

Partnership works cooperatively with the Corps of Engineers, Memphis and Vicksburg Districts, 

to provide assistance and search for solutions to this most critical resource issue. 

Programs, such as the Conservation Reserve Program, Environmental Quality Incentives 

Program, Wetlands Reserve Program, and Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program continued to 

assist in the preservation and proper management of natural resources in 2003. 
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Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

First Congressional District 

Census of Agriculture Data 

Land in Farm Acres, Numbers of Farms/Average Acres, Total Acres of 

Cropland and Irrigated Acres

County Land in 

Farm Acres 

# of 

Farms

Average 

Acres

Total Acres 

Cropland 

Irrigated

Acres

 

Arkansas 426,363 518 823 375,526 308,540

Baxter 10,532 492 21 39,589 62

Clay 323,578 611 530 296,145 176,079

Cleburne 117,435 710 165 54,952 274

Craighead 363,253 754 482 335,232 221,658

Crittenden 319,824 259 1,235 304,202 95,840

Cross 343,634 382 900 317,066 223,337

Fulton 227,794 737 309 92,098 120

Greene 262,827 733 359 229,540 116,388

Independence 283,126 1,044 271 154,375 15,398

Izard 187,863 703 267 80,112 264

Jackson 335,099 461 727 294,515 154,802

Lawrence 293,576 661 444 238,241 112,479

Lee 279,643 273 1,024 262,839 102,209

Lonoke 390,705 89 4,390 327,025 209,562

Mississippi 489,158 462 1,059 480,157 162,589

Monroe 235,812 245 962 211,137 128,099

Phillips 361,185 323 1,118 345,592 131,053

Poinsett 401,266 570 704 374,979 274,028

Prairie 301,851 420 719 257,472 178,631

Randolph 265,771 694 383 163,067 47,333

Searcy 188,275 614 307 69,024 262

Sharp 173,598 618 281 68,959 904

St. Francis 289,882 328 884 244,322 102,577

Stone 142,453 601 237 56,052 334

Woodruff 284,731 239 1,191 255,216 159,122

Totals 7,299,234 13,541 761 5,927,434 2,921,944

 Information from 1997 Census of Agriculture Data
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Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

First Congressional District 

Bayou Meto 

Cooperative with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Memphis and Vicksburg 

districts, and the Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

Description: Protection of ground water resources in eastern Arkansas by providing a sustained 

water supply for irrigation, fish farming and the enhancement of fish and wildlife habitat. 

Current Status: The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), in cooperation with 

irrigation and conservation districts and the Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission, 

completed the initial on-farm portion of the plan. The Corps of Engineers (COE) is nearing 

completion of planning for the irrigation delivery system, flood control and drainage analysis. 

The NRCS made approximately $2,540,000 of Environmental Quality Incentives Program 

financial assistance available to individuals within this area during 2003 and expects continued 

use of this program by farmers during 2004. 

Funds Needed: $10 million in financial assistance is needed each year after the plan is 

approved to assist farmers with on-farm conservation practice installation. Approximately $1.2 

million is needed in technical assistance annually to use the financial assistance. Total estimated 

project cost is more than $318 million, including the delivery system. 

Benefits: The project provides an adequate water supply for 431,000 acres of cropland. 

Additionally, 55,000 acres of cropland will be flooded in the fall and winter for waterfowl. 

Scheduled Completion Date: The on-farm portion of the resource management plan for this 

area was completed and delivered to the sponsors in FY 1997. The final plan target date is 

directly related to COE and NRCS funding and staffing.

Sponsor: Bayou Meto Regional Irrigation Water Distribution District 

Counties: Arkansas, Jefferson, Lonoke and Prairie 

Contacts: State Conservationist Kalven L. Trice (501) 301-3100 

 Assistant State Conservationist for 

Natural Resources Planning David Weeks (501) 301-3139 

 State Conservation Engineer Tony Stevenson (501) 301-3141 

 Irrigation District Executive Director Gene Sullivan (501) 676-7420 

 Irrigation District Chairman Gary Canada (501) 842-2555 

Conservation District Directors: 

County Director Conservationist Phone

Arkansas Johnny Holzhauer Marshall Handcock (870) 946-3331 x 104 

Lonoke Neal Anderson Doug McClellan (501) 676-5116 x 119 

Prairie Don Vaught Kennard Williams (870) 255-3573 x 115 
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Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

First Congressional District 

Big Slough Watershed 

Description: The project is a revision of an old PL 83-566 watershed project plan that 

addresses floodwater damages to approximately 17,000 acres of cropland. Several stretches of 

U.S. Highway 49 and the urban communities of Piggott, Rector, and Greenway also receive 

damages. Erosion and sedimentation problems occur on the eastern landscape of Crowley's 

Ridge and the drainage ditches located in the floodplain. An Environmental Impact Statement 

will be prepared. 

Current Status: Planning strategies have changed for the project. The Big Slough 

Improvement District will use FY 2003 appropriations under agreement with NRCS to seek 

professional services to expedite the planning process and to complete Environmental Impact 

Statement. Solicitation for these services will begin in fall 2003. The Improvement District will 

coordinate closely with NRCS staff persons to assure that work completed meets watershed 

planning guidelines.

Funds Needed: Continued support is needed for national funding of the PL 83-566 program to 

meet the state's request for watershed planning and implementation funds. Funds in the amount 

of $125,000 were received for FY 2003 and will be used to fund services to continue the work 

plan. Additional funding in the amount of $100,000 is needed in 2004 to continue the planning 

process. 

Benefits: The revised plan provides flood protection to productive agricultural land and to the 

incorporated areas of Greenway, Piggott and Rector, which have approximately 10,000 citizens. 

Scheduled Completion Date: Completion of the draft plan is scheduled for late FY 2005, 

pending funding. 

Sponsors: Big Slough Watershed Improvement District City of Greenway 

 Greene County Conservation District City of Rector 

 Clay County Conservation District City of Piggott 

 St. Francis Drainage District of Clay and Green Counties 

Counties: Clay and Greene

Contact: Assistant State Conservationist for 

 Natural Resources Planning David Weeks (501) 301-3139 

Conservation District Chairmen:

County Chairman Conservationist Phone

Clay Richard Simmons Randy Lemmons (870) 598-2287 x 104 

Greene Ronald Pigue Vacant (870) 236-8586 x 104 
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Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

First Congressional District 

Boydsville Lake 

Description: The proposed 5,500-acre impoundment would provide an economic boost from its 

recreational activities as well as provide some flood protection to the Cache River basin. 

Current Status: The Phase I feasibility investigation funded by the state was completed in 

1997. The study reported on impacts on roads, land rights values, potential size, utilities and 

cemeteries, and developed alternatives for each element. The University of Arkansas and the 

Cooperative Extension Service provided studies of economic impacts and projected regional 

development. Arkansas State University (ASU) completed a countywide poll determining 

majority support for the project. Sponsors contracted a consulting firm to further the studies and 

for promotional guidance and support. ASU studied potential economic benefits and provided a 

very positive report for the project. In 1999 and 2000 the sponsors secured appropriations to have 

the dam location cored for engineering and soils analysis resulting in a possible relocation of the 

structure. In 2001 the structure was proposed to be moved upstream to seek a more stable soil for 

construction. An analysis was completed in 2002 and a draft report is due in the near future. 

County Chamber of Commerce leaders continue to pursue all avenues for funding the project. 

The local committee and the Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission (ASWCC) 

continue to express interest in the project. It has been determined to this date that any or all the 

dams could be feasible at their present locations. The committee and the ASWCC are requesting 

the Corps of Engineers provide guidance as to the next step of this project. 

Funds Needed: Pre-construction investigation and planning: $500,000

Benefits: This lake will greatly increase the quality of life and economy of Clay County.

Scheduled Completion Date: Construction investigation – December 2005, pending funding. 

Sponsors: Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

 Boydsville Lake Association 

 Clay County Conservation District 

 Clay County Chamber of Commerce 

County: Clay 

Contacts: Assistant State Conservationist for 

 Natural Resources Planning David Weeks (501) 301-3139 

 Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation 

 Commission Earl Smith (501) 682-3979 

 Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation 

 Commission Ken Brazil (501) 682-3980 

 Boydsville Lake Committee Chairman Ron Benson (870) 595-3591 

Conservation District Director: 

County Director Conservationist Phone

Clay Richard Simmons Randy Lemmons (870) 598-2287 x 113 
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Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

First Congressional District 

Buffalo River Tributaries Watershed 

(The Buffalo River was designated America's first national river in 1972.) 

Description: This PL 83-566 watershed plan addresses nonpoint source pollution through costsharing for on-farm land treatment. The plan, developed by an interagency team, addresses 

concerns from an ecosystem approach. The Buffalo River attracts more than one million visitors 

annually. 

Current Status: The project was authorized August 1995 and long-term contracts with 

landowners and purchases of conservation easements began then. In FY 2003, $8,222 was 

available for contracts. NRCS requested $300,000 for contracts for FY 2004. 

Funds Needed: Continued support is needed for national funding of the PL 83-566 program to 

meet the state's request for watershed implementation funds. During FY 2005, $500,000 in 

financial and technical assistance is needed. 

Benefits: The Buffalo River Tributaries Watershed Project (Authority PL 83-566) is Arkansas' 

first PL 83-566 Water Quality Project. When implemented it will protect the recreational use of 

the Buffalo River. 

Scheduled Completion Date: 2005 or later, depending on funding. 

Sponsors: Buffalo Conservation District (lead sponsor) 

 Crooked Creek Conservation District 

 Newton County Soil and Water Conservation District 

County: Searcy 

Contact: Assistant State Conservationist for 

 Natural Resources Planning David Weeks (501) 301-3139 

Conservation District Director:

County Director Conservationist Phone

Searcy Mark Halsted Sid Lowrance (870) 448-3184 x 102 
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Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

First Congressional District 

Departee Creek Watershed 

Description: The Natural Resources Conservation Service has developed a PL 83-566 

watershed plan that addresses flood damages to approximately 12,600 acres of cropland. It also 

includes wetland protection and restoration through the use of conservation easements, a 

floodwater retarding structure, selective snagging, and fish and wildlife features including 

Arkansas Game and Fish Commission facilities. 

Current Status: The sponsors borrowed $25,000 to form an improvement district and have 

started collecting taxes. An implementation plan/Environmental Impact Statement (plan/EIS) has 

been developed. The sponsors signed the plan January 25, 2000. The project received approval 

by the U. S. House of Representatives in 2003 and awaits similar action by the Senate. 

Funds Needed: Continued support is needed for national funding of the PL 83-566 program to 

meet the state's request for watershed planning funds. For PL 83-566 technical assistance and 

financial assistance, $1.85 million is needed to install the project. 

Benefits: Preserve 944 acres of wetlands; reduce average annual flood damages by $179,000; 

provide a recreation lake for fish and wildlife; and trap 6,594 tons of sediment annually. 

Scheduled Completion Date: The plan is complete. 

Sponsors: Arkansas Game and Fish Commission 

 Departee Creek Watershed Improvement District 

 Independence County Conservation District 

 Jackson County Conservation District 

Counties: Independence and Jackson 

Contact: Assistant State Conservationist for 

 Natural Resources Planning David Weeks (501) 301-3139 

Conservation District Directors: 

County Director Conservationist Phone

Independence Charles Osborne Bill Ulmer (870) 793-4164 x 109 

Jackson Steve Tinsley vacant (870) 523-8986 x 104 
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Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

First Congressional District 

Eastern Arkansas Region Comprehensive Study - 

Grand Prairie Reevaluation 

Cooperative project with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Memphis District, and 

the Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

Description: The project's objective is to combine on-farm conservation measures and on-farm 

irrigation storage reservoirs with an irrigation canal network to deliver surface water throughout 

the project area and to meet crop water needs and preserve the alluvial and Sparta aquifers. 

Current Status: The Memphis District of the Corps of Engineers has the authorities to move 

this project to construction. The design of the pumping plant is complete. The Natural Resources 

Conservation Service has planned, surveyed and designed approximately $38 million of on-farm 

conservation practices. On farm construction activities are underway and approximately $18 

million in federal cost share payments have been made for completed practices. 

Funds Needed: Annual funding at the $10 million level for on-farm conservation measures 

and $1 million in technical assistance is needed during the next five years in order to fully 

implement the on-farm conservation program. 

Benefits: The project provides supplemental irrigation water to approximately 240,000 acres of 

cropland. Additionally, 38,000 acres of cropland will be flooded by farmers to provide a fall and 

winter feeding and nesting area for waterfowl. 

Scheduled Completion Date: 2010 

Sponsor: White River Regional Irrigation Water Distribution District 

Counties: Arkansas, Lonoke, Monroe and Prairie 

Contacts: State Conservationist Kalven L. Trice (501) 301-3100 

 Assistant State Conservationist for 

 Natural Resources Planning David Weeks (501) 301-3139 

 State Conservation Engineer Tony Stevenson (501) 301-3141 

 White River Regional Irrigation Water 

 Distribution District, Exec. Dir. John Edwards (501) 673-8836 

Conservation District Directors: 

County Director Conservationist Phone

Arkansas Johnny Holzhauer Marshall Handcock (870) 946-3331 x 104 

Lonoke Neal Anderson Doug McClellan (501) 676-5116 x 119 

Monroe Don Davis Larry Hunt (870) 747-3431 x 105 

Prairie Don Vaught Kennard Williams (870) 255-3573 x 115 
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Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

First Congressional District 

Fourche Creek Watershed 

Description: This PL 83-566 flood control project consists of 19 floodwater-retarding 

structures and one multipurpose floodwater retarding structure. It provides flood protection to 

approximately 17,500 acres of cropland in Arkansas and Missouri and provides public recreation 

benefits. 

Current Status: Site 21 is the one remaining floodwater retarding structure to be constructed in 

Arkansas. 

Funds Needed: Continued support is needed for national funding of the PL 83-566 program to 

meet the state's request for watershed implementation funds. 

Benefits: The project provides flood protection for agricultural land. 

Scheduled Completion Date: 2008

Sponsors: Fourche Creek Watershed Implementation District 

 Randolph County Conservation District 

County: Randolph 

Contact: Assistant State Conservationist for 

 Natural Resources Planning David Weeks (501) 301-3139 

Conservation District Director: 

County Director Conservationist Phone

Randolph Frank Ellis Charles Peacock (870) 892-3325 x 108 
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Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

First Congressional District 

Hog Tusk Comprehensive Community 

Watershed Development 

Description: The Hog Tusk Drainage Watershed Project is located in the southwestern portion 

of Lee County. The project's objective is to provide channel capacities and flood prevention and 

protection in the 16,000-acre floodplain on 11.5 miles of existing ditches. 

Current Status: Funding in the form of loans and grants has been made available by Rural 

Economic and Community Development to construct this project. Natural Resources 

Conservation Service has completed all phases of construction on this project. 

Funds Needed: No additional funding is needed for this project. 

Benefits: Flooding will be reduced on 9,924 acres of cropland. The project will also improve 

farm productivity and income, employment, industrial development and infrastructure for 

marketing distribution. 

Scheduled Completion Date: Construction was completed September 2003. 

Sponsor: Hog Tusk Drainage Improvement District 

County: Lee 

Contacts: Hog Tusk Drainage District Chairman Johnny Dozier (870) 768-4414 

 State Conservation Engineer Tony Stevenson (501) 301-3141 

 Assistant State Conservationist for 

 Field Operations, Northeast Anderson Neal Jr. (Acting) (870) 972-4714 

Conservation District Director: 

County Director Conservationist Phone

Lee W. H. Gerrard Angela Gibson (870) 295-5211 x 114 
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Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

First Congressional District 

Northeast Arkansas Irrigation Conservation Projects 

Description: Applications for federal assistance under the land treatment provisions of PL 83-

566 have been received for two separate watersheds, the L’Anguille River and Bayou DeView. 

The Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission (ASWCC) will prioritize the two water 

conservation projects with regard to other projects. The two watershed areas total 288,000 acres, 

including approximately 226,000 irrigated acres. Western Poinsett and Craighead counties are 

included in an area designated as a Critical Ground Water Designation Study Area by the 

ASWCC. The Study Area has experienced serious declines in ground water levels due to 

irrigation water withdrawals. 

Current Status: There is a great deal of concern in the project watersheds that landowners 

have been and will continue to experience critical problems with irrigation water. The ASWCC 

continues to study the area. Farmers in Craighead and Poinsett counties have participated in the 

Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) for ground water conservation. They received 

EQIP funds in the amounts of averaging approximately $280,000 per year in FY 1999 through 

FY 2001. In FY 2002, approximately $221,000 of EQIP funds were obligated in new contracts to 

conserve ground water. In FY 2003, no EQIP funds were obligated in the project area. 

Funds Needed: An additional $400,000 in funding is needed for FY 2004 and FY 2005 for 

additional data collection, data analysis, surveying and preliminary engineering designs for onfarm work. Funding of $8 million per year is needed for on-farm conservation practice 

construction when the project is authorized. 

Benefits: Monetary benefits will be derived from the continued production of irrigated crops. 

Additionally, each fall and winter, significant areas of cropland will be flooded for waterfowl 

and other migratory birds.

Scheduled Completion Date: It will require approximately two years to complete a plan for 

each project, provided planning funds are available. 

Sponsors: Craighead Conservation District 

 Poinsett Conservation District 

Counties: Craighead and Poinsett 

Contacts: Assistant State Conservationist for 

 Natural Resources Planning David Weeks (501) 301-3139 

 State Conservation Engineer Tony Stevenson (501) 301-3141 

Conservation District Directors: 

County Director Conservationist Phone

Craighead Bill Adams Randy Ferguson (870) 972-4671 x 115 

Poinsett Tom Wimpy Bob Forrest (870) 578-2444 x 114 
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Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

First Congressional District 

North Prairie County Irrigation Project 

Description: This irrigation project area was developed to preserve and protect ground water 

resources in North Prairie County. Stabilizing the local economy, it provides a sustainable water 

supply for irrigation, fish farming and enhancement of fish and wildlife habitat. 

Current Status: The irrigation district received a $50,000 grant from the State of Arkansas to 

begin studies. The irrigation district, in partnership with the conservation district, hired a district 

technician who prepared resource information and land use data for accelerating planning efforts. 

The Natural Resources Conservation Service has completed the preliminary water needs analysis 

and is in the process of preparing the draft plan. A delivery system layout is complete.

Funds Needed: An additional $300,000 in funding is needed to prepare the final 

plan/environmental assessment and for additional, surveying, designing and specification 

preparation leading toward completion of the engineering designs. Funding of $2 million will be 

needed annually for on-farm construction after planning is complete. Additional funding will be 

required to construct the delivery system. 

Benefits: This project supplies water for 75,000 acres of cropland. Additionally, each fall and 

winter, 15,000 acres of cropland will be flooded by farmers for waterfowl and other migratory 

birds.

Scheduled Completion Date: Completion is dependent upon obtaining additional funding. 

The irrigation district has partnered with the Prairie County Conservation District to complete 

Phase I of the planning. This draft plan is nearing completion. 

Sponsor: North Prairie County Regional Irrigation Water District 

County: Prairie 

Contacts: State Conservationist Kalven L. Trice (501) 301-3100 

 Assistant State Conservationist for 

 Natural Resources Planning David Weeks (501) 301-3139 

 State Conservation Engineer Tony Stevenson (501) 301-3141 

 Irrigation District Chairman Patrick Mullen (870) 256-3055 

Conservation District Director: 

County Director Conservationist Phone

Prairie Patrick Mullen Kennard Williams (870) 255-3573 x 115 
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Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

First Congressional District 

Poinsett Watershed (Structural) 

Description: This project calls for construction of 36 floodwater retarding structures and 19 

miles of channel work for flood protection of 10,452 acres of agricultural land. 

Current Status: Four channel improvement contracts are complete for a water control structure 

and ten miles of channel at a cost of $2,954,060. A fifth channel segment is under construction 

and will be completed in the fall of 2003. Construction is complete on 31 of the 36 planned 

dams. In FY 2003, a contract was awarded for modifications to the fifth channel contract at a 

cost of $81,794. Also awarded in FY 2003 was a contract for the sixth channel segment at a cost 

of $401,065. The sponsor will secure professional services to complete a supplemental watershed 

plan to add approximately four miles of channel to the project by increasing the capacity of Ditch 

26 of Viney Slough. The supplemental plan is expected to be completed in 2004. 

Funds Needed: Continued support is needed for national funding of the PL 83-566 program to 

support the state's request for implementation funds. In FY 2004, $1,312,000 of financial 

assistance was requested for a potential contract segment #6 extension and two flood water 

retarding structures. In FY 2005, approximately $700,000 of PL 83-566 funds is needed for the 

remaining floodwater retarding structures. Approximately $2 million in financial and technical 

assistance is needed to construct the Ditch 26 extension in beginning in FY 2004. 

Benefits: Prevent flood and sediment damage on agricultural land. 

Scheduled Completion Date: 2008 

Sponsors: Craighead County Conservation District 

 Poinsett County Conservation District 

 Poinsett Watershed Improvement District 

Counties: Craighead and Poinsett 

Contacts: Assistant State Conservationist for 

 Natural Resources Planning David Weeks (501) 301-3139 

 Assistant State Conservationist for 

 Field Operations, Northeast Anderson Neal, Jr. (Acting) (870) 972-4714 

 Project Engineer Ken Ziegler (870) 972-4659 

 Poinsett Watershed Improvement, 

 District Chairman David Clines (870) 935-8315 

Conservation District Directors: 

County District Director Conservationist Phone

Craighead Bill Adams Randy Ferguson (870) 972-4671 x 115 

Poinsett Charles Glover Bob Forrest (870) 578-2444 x 114 
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Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

First Congressional District 

Farm Bill Programs 

Environmental Quality Incentives Program - 2003 

District Number of Contracts 

Dollars 

Funded 

Applications 

Received Dollars Requested 

First 223 $5,673,843 2,423 $42,630,293

Total 570 $11,343,654 4,606 $76,317,675

 

Grassland Reserve Program - 2003 

District Number of Contracts 

Dollars 

Funded 

Applications 

Received Dollars Requested 

First 8 $651,877 17 $943,350

Total 11 $833,557 30 $2,897,023

 

Wetlands Reserve Program - 2003 

District 

Number of New 

Contracts 

Dollars 

Funded 

Applications 

Pending Dollars Requested 

First 29 $14,593,790 277 $70,028,491

Total 51 $27,001,316 412 $109,450,057

 Total acres in program = 122,947+

 

Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program 2003 

District Number of Contacts 

Dollars 

Funded 

Applications 

Received Dollars Requested 

First 47 $286,049 90 $556,477

Total 90 $585,339 210 $1,303,458
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Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

First Congressional District 

Resource Conservation and Development Activities 

Arkansas River Valley RC&D - Conway, Crawford, Franklin, Johnson, Logan, Montgomery, 

Polk, Pope, Scott, Sebastian and Yell counties 

Central Arkansas RC&D - Faulkner, Garland, Hot Spring, Lonoke, Monroe, Perry, Prairie, 

Phillips, Pulaski and Saline counties 

East Arkansas RC&D - Clay, Craighead, Crittenden, Cross, Greene, Lee, Mississippi, Poinsett,

St. Francis and Woodruff counties 

Northwest Arkansas RC&D - Baxter, Benton, Boone, Carroll, Madison, Marion, Newton, 

Searcy and Washington counties 

Ozark Foothills RC&D - Cleburne, Fulton, Independence, Izard, Jackson, Lawrence, 

Randolph, Sharp, Stone, Van Buren and White counties 

Southeast Arkansas RC&D - Arkansas, Ashley, Bradley, Chicot, Cleveland, Desha, Drew, 

Grant, Jefferson and Lincoln counties 

Southwest Arkansas RC&D - Calhoun, Clark, Columbia, Dallas, Hempstead, Howard, 

Lafayette, Little River, Miller, Nevada, Ouachita, Pike, Sevier and Union counties 

The Central Arkansas RC&D Council completed the Phillips County Community 

Improvement Project, a $2.8 million appropriation aimed at enhancing storm water drainage 

within four low-income communities in Phillips County. Through contractual savings the 

Central Arkansas RC&D Council had $500,000 in discretionary funds remaining which was 

used for further drainage work in Lakeview, West Helena, Lexa, and Elaine. This construction 

was completed and closed out in November 2003. 

The Central Arkansas RC&D Council opened the Delta Resource Information Center (DRIC) 

in April 2002. The mission of the DRIC is to aid the delta in providing technical assistance in the 

development of economic, social, and natural resources in the Mississippi River delta region. 

Thus far the DRIC has provided computer training to more than 150 individuals within Phillips 

County. The DRIC is also in the process of inventorying existing business and industry within 

four counties in search of additional value-added industries. The DRIC accepts moderate and 

low-income housing applications for USDA-Rural Development. DRIC serves as the operations 

center of the council in its delta initiatives. DRIC is a local contact point for state agencies that 

do not have a local presence in the delta. DRIC disperses loan applications for the Small 

Business Administration. DRIC will eventually serve as a grant research center for local people. 

The DRIC is also working in partnership with Winrock International in developing a 

vegetable/specialty crop cooperative for limited resource producers within the region. 

The DRIC is also working with the community's local leadership developing an economic 

development strategy for the development of the Delta Regional Training Center (DRTC). The 

purpose of the DRTC is to provide state of the art training facilities for federal and state agencies 

as well as for-profit corporations. 

Central Arkansas RC&D Council through the DRIC has restored over 3000 acres of wetlands 

in the delta through the Emergency Watershed Protection Program administered by the Natural 

Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). Of these wetland acres, 2,429 of them were Carbon 
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Offset acres with non-federal dollars. Central Arkansas RC&D is also in the process of 

restoring an approximately 7000 acres of wetlands for fiscal year 2004. 

Central Arkansas RC&D continues to assist in the Rural Fire Protection Program. This 

program has provided a total funding of $201,142.67 from 1998 - 2003 to the four counties that 

are in the 1st Congressional District which are Lonoke, Prairie, Monroe, and Phillips counties. 

The East Arkansas RC&D Council received seven grants totaling $200,956 plus donations of 

$4,700. The council adopted three new projects and made several fund searches. 

Council wide and local projects include the Rural Fire Protection Program, L'Anguille River 

Water Quality Project, Hog Tusk Drainage Project, Cross County Rural Water Line Extension 

Project and others. 

Phase one of the L'Anguille River Water Quality Project is over. The Project covers all or parts 

of five counties in the East Arkansas RC&D Council area. Conservation Buffer Technology 

will be used in an effort to control the sedimentation going into the river with the overall goal of 

reducing the Total Maximum Daily Load buildup in the stream. This is the first step of many that 

will need to be taken in order to protect the integrity of the river. This project is being 

implemented by a local steering committee with assistance from the Arkansas Soil and Water 

Conservation Commission (ASWCC), NRCS, local conservation districts, Arkansas State 

University Agriculture Department, and the East Arkansas RC&D Council. 

Work is complete on the Hog Tusk Drainage Project, which is located in Lee County. This is a 

much needed drainage project that will protect both agriculture land and family homes from 

floodwaters. 

The Cross County Rural Water System line extension project in the Pine Tree Community of 

Cross and St. Francis counties is a partnership between the council, the Rural Water District, the 

ASWCC, East Arkansas Enterprise Community, and the customers of the Water District. Total 

project cost is $85,869. The project will supply water to approximately 17 low income and 

elderly families in the Pine Tree Community. This project fits in well with the council's area plan 

of work. 

The East Arkansas RC&D Council continues to act as a facilitator in local community projects, 

believing that local people, carrying out local projects, is the ideal way to accomplish local goals. 

The Northwest Arkansas RC&D Council continues to promote ecotourism as one strategy for 

rural economic development. This past year they completely sold out the first printing of their 144 

page Ecotourism Development Manual. With grant assistance from the U.S. Forest Service, the 

council edited updated and re-printed 1,000 copies of this manual for continued distribution as a 

step-by-step guidebook for communities to use in developing ecotourism. 

The Northwest Arkansas RC&D Council has encouraged all nine counties in the area to create 

Hometown Health Improvement Coalitions. Five counties have done this and two more are currently 
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in the process. Through these coalitions the council has found opportunities to reach a much broader 

audience to help them understand how conservation and management of our natural resources is not 

only related to but enhances overall community health. Some of the activities of these coalitions 

have included health fairs. Some have conducted surveys to help them determine priority health 

issues and develop prevention programs and intervention strategies. Another successful effort has 

been the “Household Hazardous Wastes (HHW) Collection Program.” This year, Boone County held 

its fifth annual HHW round-up. More than 500 vehicles from all over the county came through the 

various check-points delivering all manner of hazardous wastes. This round-up has grown steadily 

from its inception and this year’s turnout was an all time high. Not only was there good community 

involvement in getting rid of hazardous wastes, but 101 community volunteers came to assist at the 

drop-off stations to help facilitate the process. This program is based on the sound, common-sense 

premise that the best way to dispose of many common household chemicals is to use them in 

accordance with their label directions. After collection events, untainted, usable products are 

available for free pickup by home gardeners and others who need and will properly use them. The 

paint rack has been very popular with artists, churches and scouts and other youth groups. A licensed 

hazardous waste management company securely stores banned, contaminated and any otherwise 

unusable chemicals until an economical quantity is collected. The chemicals are then safely shipped 

to the appropriate disposal facility. 

All nine counties within the Northwest Arkansas RC&D Council area participate in the 

statewide Rural Fire Protection Program. Through this program, which is designed to assist rural 

volunteer fire departments that are ISO Class seven and above, countywide master fire plans 

were developed, then, through a competitive grant process, follow-up funding is provided to help 

the participating departments develop and improve their water supply and delivery systems. As 

these departments implement their master fire plans, they increase their ability to protect life and 

property. In many cases, these improvements resulted in lowered ISO ratings which, in turn, 

resulted in lower fire insurance premiums. To date, more than $635,000 has been awarded to 

rural fire departments in the Northwest Arkansas RC&D Council area through the RFPP. 

The Northwest Arkansas RC&D Council received a matching grant from the USDA Forest 

Service and Arkansas Forestry Commission "Economic Action Program" for a water feasibility 

study for Newton, Searcy, Northern Johnson and northern Pope counties. This study, to be 

completed by December 30, 2003, goes beyond the traditional water needs study to address and 

analyze the economic benefits of meeting the water needs for adequate fire protection as well as 

the potable water needs for human consumption. This ties in well with our existing efforts to 

improve our rural fire departments’ emergency fire fighting capabilities through the RFPP. 

The Northwest Arkansas RC&D Council has provided planning and technical assistance to the 

American Association of Natural Hoof Care Practitioners (AANHCP). The AANHCP is 

developing and organizing as a not-for-profit information, education, outreach and research 

oriented association for equine owners. In December 2002, this organization held its first annual 

meeting in Harrison, Arkansas and chartered its board of directors. 

As a pilot project, and to develop a computer model to be used in other Arkansas counties, the 

Northwest Arkansas RC&D Council worked with the University of Arkansas WestArk to 
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conduct a Rural Risk Assessment in Washington County. The model is computer based using 

Geographical Information System (GIS) database technology. The GIS data layers include such 

things as the demographics, fire district response areas, fuel maps, color infrared imagery, past 

history of wildfire locations and inventory data. The council expects this model to serve as an 

outstanding inventory and planning tool, not only for rural fire protection but also for homeland 

security and other emergency services, as well. 

In 2003, the Northwest Arkansas RC&D Council assisted the Boone and Marion County 

conservation districts in bringing farm safety training, including farm machinery, ATV safety, 

electrical hazards, and first aid training to approximately 300 high school students. 

The Beaver Lake Watershed Partnership, an organization co-sponsored by the Northwest 

Arkansas RC&D Council, continues to function, and conduct informational and educational 

activities for the benefit of Beaver Lake and its various stakeholders. 

The Northwest Arkansas RC&D Council provided assistance to the Washington County 

Economic Development Advisory Board and other partners in planning the 2003 Northwest 

Arkansas Ozark Poultry Producer Symposium at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. This 

year’s symposium contained a producer session specifically focused on USDA-NRCS Assistance 

and Programs available to growers. 

The Northwest Arkansas RC&D Council continues its support of the Searcy County Regional 

Water District in its efforts to construct a water supply lake on upper Bear Creek. 

The Ozark Foothills RC&D Council continued to assist the 117 fire departments in the council 

area to implement master fire plans. The council assisted the counties in securing $96,000 in grants 

for area fire departments to improve water supply and delivery. The improvements have enabled 

several fire departments to achieve lower classification and insurance rates for the district. 

Ozark Foothills RC&D Council continues to be involved with projects aimed at improving the 

management of privately owned forestland. In the 11 counties that make up the council there are 

more than 2.5 million acres of private forestland owned by more than 30,000 landowners - 

averaging approximately 70 acres per landowner. The council developed a partnership with 

Arkansas Forestry Commission, University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service, 

Arkansas Forestry Association, ASWCC, NRCS and Arkansas Game and Fish Commission with 

the 11 conservation districts to develop landowner education and technical assistance projects. 

The council is in the third year of implementing three forest landowner education projects. The 

Ozark Foothills Forest Landowner Education Project covers Jackson and Randolph counties and 

parts of the other nine counties in the council area. The council received $199,500 in grant funds 

from USDA Rural Development. The council also assisted the Cleburne County Conservation 

District secure a $157,000 grant from the ASWCC to implement the Little Red River Forest 

Landowner Education Project, which covers parts of Cleburne, Stone, VanBuren and White 

counties. These two projects are joined by the Strawberry River Forest Landowner Education 

Project, which cover parts of Fulton, Izard, Lawrence and Sharp counties and was funded last 
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year for $103,000. All of these are three-year projects that will include many landowner 

education activities. To date over 2,500 landowners have attended landowner workshops and 

over 300 have requested the development of Forest Stewardship Plans. 

Ozark Foothills RC&D Council has partnered with Ozark Woodland Owners Association 

(OWOA) in planning and implementing the first North Arkansas Forestry Conference. The 

conference was held in March 2003 at the University of Arkansas Community College at 

Batesville. Forest products industry, state and federal agencies, forest landowners, educators and 

others were invited to the four day event to further the wise management of the forest resources 

of north Arkansas. OWOA received a grant from the U.S. Forest Service to hold the event. 

Ozark Foothills RC&D Council also assisted the OWOA in securing a $20,000 grant from the 

U.S. Forest Service to conduct a landowner survey. OWOA has completed the survey and are in 

the process of writing the report. The report was available at the North Arkansas Forestry 

conference that held in March of 2003 in Batesville. 

Ozark Foothills RC&D Council assisted the OWOA in developing a project to look at the 

economic impact of the forest products industry in the Ozark Foothills RC&D Council area. 

The University of Arkansas School of Forest Resources in Monticello is in the process of doing 

the study. The results will be presented at the North Arkansas Forestry Conference in March 

2003 in Batesville. 

Ozark Foothills RC&D Council received an $80,000 grant from the U.S. Department of 

Energy and the Arkansas Economic Development Commission to assist a group of Jackson 

County farmers conduct a feasibility study on the use of rice straw for ethanol production. The 

sponsors have successfully determined that rice straw can be harvested in adequate amounts to 

feed an ethanol plant. The final report was completed in March of 2003. The project sponsors 

will continue to look at the possibility of developing a market for rice straw for energy. 

The Ozark Foothills RC&D Council continued to assist Northeast Arkansas RC&D Council

and The Nature Conservancy in the development of a project aimed at reducing sediment in the 

Cache River. The project is aimed at reducing sediment coming from cropland adjacent to the 

Cache River and its tributaries, including man-made drainage ditches. Standard, inexpensive 

water control structures will be the primary conservation practice promoted to the area farmers. 

Many agencies and organizations agreed to work together to improve this stream. 

In 2004, Ozark Foothills RC&D Council will be moving to a new location not yet determined. 

The council completed acquisition of some commercial property in Batesville. The council 

tentatively plans to build offices for the council and others if funding becomes available. The 

property is valued at $40,000 and was donated by a local businessman. 

The Southeast Arkansas RC&D Council continues to work on the existing projects from 2002 

including the Tarry Community Park, West-Saline Rural Water Extension, Jordan Park Pool 

Renovation, and the Monticello Swim Team Pool. However, in 2003 the council adopted several 

additional projects. They are the Southeast Arkansas Forestry Museum and Nature Trail, City of 
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Altheimer Revitalization, City of Reed Drainage Improvement Plan, Tarry Community Center, 

and Thomas Store Historic Preservation. 

In Cleveland County, the Southeast Arkansas RC&D Council continues to work with the 

group of rural citizens to obtain a rural water system. Most of these individuals are elderly and 

cannot continue to have to work on a well pump system. 

In Drew County the Southeast Arkansas RC&D Council is sponsoring the Southeast Arkansas 

Forestry Museum and Nature Trail. A steering committee of volunteers from the forest industry 

throughout Southeast Arkansas has been established in order to bring this project to fruition. Dr. 

Fred Taylor, Chancellor at the University of Arkansas at Monticello (UAM) provided the council 

with a building site on the property of UAM to construct the museum. This project will be 

completed in three broad phases. Phase I is planning, Phase II is construction, and Phase III is 

closeout and evaluation. We have just recently completed the grant proposal for Phase I and are 

awaiting funding. 

The City of Altheimer in Jefferson County is a poor farming community with very little revenue. 

The council is working with the city on a revitalization project. We are currently drafting a grant 

proposal for the purchase of an old antebellum home constructed around 1850. With the 

purchase of this property, we hope to generate tourism dollars for the Altheimer. In addition, in 

this same proposal we are going to renovate an existing building in Altheimer for a computer 

learning and job training center. This project is just getting started. We are currently in the 

process of completing the needs assessments for this project. 

The Southeast Arkansas RC&D Council is also assisting the City of Reed in Desha County to 

secure funding to implement a drainage improvement plan that was completed by the NRCS. 

The city needs approximately $285,000 dollars to implement the drainage plan. The council is 

currently seeking funding for this project. 

The Southeast Arkansas RC&D is assisting the community of Tarry in Lincoln County with 

the final phase of their FUN Park. A $25,000 grant was awarded to Tarry to construct the park. 

The land has been cleared and is just about ready to install the playground equipment. We are 

also working with Tarry to construct a community center on the same property as the FUN Park 

and to restore the Thomas Store in Tarry. Thomas Store was constructed sometime around 1850. 

The Southeast Arkansas RC&D Council continues to participate in the Rural Fire Protection 

Program. In 2003, 11 volunteer fire departments received funding through this program for a 

total of $29,000 in Southeast Arkansas. The council continues to encourage fire departments to 

participate in the program. Drew County had their first department participate in the program in 

2003. A master fire plan was developed for the Valley Fire Department. Additional departments 

have been contacted and they are preparing their paperwork in order to participate in the 

program. 
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Water, Wastewater, Solid Waste, etc., Funded 

Projects 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission (ASWCC) 

1. Bayou Meto Irrigation District, Arkansas, Jefferson, Lonoke and Prairie counties; to help pay 

for administrative costs associated with information and education programs and, and funds for 

planning and preliminary design. (This project is also located in the Fourth Congressional 

District.) 

 $360,000 – grant and loan from ASWCC 

 $600,000 – legislative grant from Act 1691 of 2001 - ASWCC

 $100,000 – legislative grant from Act 46 of 2003 - ASWCC 

2. Cabot, Lonoke County; to construct water transmission lines to connect the City to Central 

Arkansas Water and to construct a 2,000,000 gallon water storage tank with connecting water 

lines to the system. 

 $17,000,000 – DWSRF loan from ASWCC 

3. Colt, St. Francis County; development of a new well and RAW water line. 

 $50,000 – loan from ASWCC 

 $ 5,000 – other sources 

4. Crawfordsville, Crittenden County; extension of rural water service, rehab of existing storage 

tank, and looping of water lines for fire protection. 

 $185,000 – loan from ASWCC 

5. Crawfordsville, Crittenden County; new collector sewers for the Vincent area. Sewage 

treatment will be provided by Crawfordsville. 

 $579,000 – grant from ADED 

 $ 50,000 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

6. Community Water, Cleburne County; to provide water to the Silver Ridge area and areas north 

of Greers Ferry Lake.

 $100,000 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $463,818 – loan from USDA, Rural Development 

7. Community Water System, Lonoke and White counties; planning, engineering and 

construction of treatment plant upgrade and transmission lines. (This project is also located in 

the Second Congressional District.)

 $35,000,000 – loan from ASWCC (DWSRF) 

 $ 400,000 – legislative grant from Act 1691 of 2001 - ASWCC 

 $ 750,000 – legislative grant from Act of 1999 - ASWCC 

 $ 123,732 – deferred loan from ASWCC 
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8. Crittenden County SID No. 3; new collector sewers for the Midway area. 

 $1,109,104 – grant from ADED 

 $ 100,000 – loan from ASWCC 

9. Des Arc; Prairie County; extension of sewage collection service to two areas in the northwest 

part of the City. Development of a water well, expansion of the water treatment plant and 

improvements to the distribution system. 

 $ 726,804 – loan from ASWCC (wastewater project) 

 $1,331,070 – loan from ASWCC (water project) 

10. East Prairie County Water Association; improvements to reaction tank and inducted draft 

aerator, paint treatment facility and replace high service pumps and filters. 

 $ 51,500 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $ 51,500 – grant from ASWCC 

 $120,000 – grant from Delta Regional Authority 

11. Forrest City, St. Francis County; extension of sewer service to unserviced areas. 

 $ 31,930 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $1,785,545 – grant from ADED 

12. H.A.C.T Regional Wastewater Treatment District, Lonoke County; initial start-up expenses 

such as tools, equipment, etc. for the wastewater system for Humnoke, Allport, and Coy. 

 $60,000 – grant from ASWCC 

13. Highland, Sharp County; construction of a sewage collection and treatment system for the 

cities of Highland and Hardy. 

 $1,600,000 – CWSRF loan from ASWCC 

 $1,781,300- grant from USDA, Rural Development 

 $1,046,200 loan from USDA, Rural Development 

14. Holly Grove, Monroe County; rehabilitate the City’s wastewater interceptor. 

 $144,900 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $292,350 – loan from USDA, Rural Development 

 $807,750 – grant from USDA, Rural Development 

15. Humphrey, Arkansas County; rehabilitation of existing well pump, addition of a pump stage 

and lowering of the pump assembly. (The Project is also located in the Fourth Congressional 

District). 

 $30,900 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

16. Jericho, Crittenden County; Main pump station went out of service on June 29, 2003, causing 

sewage to back up into homes. Funds were for pump repair. 

 $15,000 – grant from ASWCC 
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17. Lafe, Greene County; new sewer lines and treatment system.

 $25,000 - loan from ASWCC 

 $530,260 - grant from other sources 

18. Leachville, new water storage tank. 

 $850,000 – DWSRF loan from ASWCC 

19. Manila; Mississippi County; construction of improvements to water treatment facility and 

sandblast and paint the water storage tank. 

 $300,000 – DWSRF loan from ASWCC 

20. Manila; Mississippi County; construction of improvements to wastewater treatment plant and 

sewage collection system. 

 $1,200,000 – CWSRF loan from ASWCC 

21. Marshall, water treatment plant improvements. 

 $93,627– loan from ASWCC 

 $93,627 – grant from ASWCC 

22. Maynard, Randolph County; waterline extensions and tie to Lawrence County RWDD for 

additional supply.

 $59,997.50 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $32,187.50 – grant from ASWCC 

23. Melbourne, Izard County; development of a new well and necessary water lines to tie well 

into water system.

 $491,400 – loan from ASWCC 

 $ 40,000 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

24. Morningstar Water Association, Searcy County; Rock Creek water line extensions.

 $58,710 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $73,710 – 20-year loan from ASWCC 

25. Mountain Home; Baxter County, rehabilitation and upgrade of water treatment facility. 

 $1,700,000 – DWSRF loan from ASWCC 

26. Mountain Home; Baxter County, extension of sewage collection lines to eastern part of the 

City. 

 $ 154,500 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $1,817,979 – local funds 

27. Nature Conservancy, Woodruff County; purchase of wetlands for preservation. 

 $7,780,000 – loan from ASWCC 
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28. Northeast Arkansas Alliance of Conservation Districts; to establish procedures to permit 

local conservation districts in the proposed Cache River critical ground water area. 

 $100,000 – grant from ASWCC 

 $200,000 – local match contribution 

29. Northeast Public Water Authority, Baxter County; to extend water service to the Teal Point 

area on Norfolk Lake east of Mountain Home. 

 $154,500 – loan from ASWCC 

 $ 50,000 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

30. Oxford, Izard County; construction of a public wastewater system, including treatment plant.

 $ 103,000 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $1,159,380 – grant from ADED 

 $ 190,200 – loan from USDA, Rural Development 

 $ 576,000 – grant from USDA, Rural Development 

31. Palestine, St. Francis County; extension of sewer service to unserviced areas. 

 $ 19,000 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $1,785,545 – grant from ADED 

32. Phillips County Sewer Facility Board; construction of a rural community wastewater system 

for Lexa, Barton, Walnut Corner and adjacent areas. 

 $ 288,400 - deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $1,083,915 – CWSRF grant from ASWCC 

 $ 191,280 – CWSRF loan from ASWCC 

 $1,970,000 – loan and grant from USDA, Rural Development 

33. Rector, Clay County; construction of drainage ditches.

 $342,718 - deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $342,718 - grant from ASWCC 

 $ 26,352 - local funds 

34. Rector, Clay County; construction of intermittent sand filters to provide further treatment of 

sewage at the wastewater treatment plant. 

 $75,000 – loan from ASWCC 

35. Searcy County Regional Water District; water supply lake, treatment plant and transmission 

line to Marshall. This $11.2 million project will be a water supply for all of Searcy County south 

of the Buffalo River. Three water systems in Searcy County have higher than permissible radium 

levels in the water. This source water project will replace the well supplies for these three 

systems. Corps of Engineers has been sued by certain environmental groups opposed to the 

project. 404 Permit issued by the Corps. 404 Permit recently abolished by the Corps. Litigation is 

continuing. 

 $15,450 – deferred loan from ASWCC to pay costs of a sales tax election in Searcy Co. 

 Other funding (USDA, Rural Development) is pending. 
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36. Sewer Improvement District No. 4 of Mountain Home; Baxter County; extension of collector 

sewer lines with an interceptor sewer. 

 $1,410,000 – loan from ASWCC 

37. Sunset, rehabilitation of two grinder pump stations for wastewater system.

 $57,165 – grant from ASWCC 

 $57,165 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

38. Trumann, Poinsett County; rehabilitation of sewer system. 

 $1,750,000 – CWSRF loan from ASWCC 

39. Tyronza, Poinsett County; to cover bid overruns for a project to replace water lines and to 

construct a new 250,000 gallon water storage tank. 

 $ 39,450 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $534,700 – loan from USDA, Rural Development 

 $254,750 – grant from USDA, Rural Development 

40. Van Buren County Water Association, Pope, Searcy and Van Buren counties; waterline 

extensions to Alread, Witts Springs, Welcome Home and adjacent rural areas. 

 $ 412,000 - loan from ASWCC 

 $1,477,600 - loan from USDA, Rural Development 

 $3,353,400 - grant from USDA, Rural Development 

 $2,500,515 - grant from ADED 

41. Walnut Ridge, sewage collection line extensions north of the City. 

 $400,000 – loan from ASWCC 

 $900,549 – grant from ADED 

42. Ward, Lonoke County; to provide sanitary sewer collection to areas in the City south of 

Ward Central School on Highway 319. 

 $110,004 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

43. White River Irrigation District, Arkansas, Lonoke, Monroe and Prairie counties: (funds for 

planning, preliminary design and construction of on-farm storage reservoirs).

 $1,756,354 – loan and grant from ASWCC 

 $ 70,000 – legislative grant from Act 46 of 2003 - ASWCC 

 $ 400,000 – grant from ASWCC 

44. Wynne, Cross County; construction of Water Treatment Plant.

 $5,700,000 – DWSRF loan from ASWCC 

For more information, please contact: 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

Darla Brooks, (501) 682-3977
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Nonpoint Source Projects Currently Being Funded 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

Sharp – Project 98-1600 - Strawberry River Demonstration Farm: Demonstration of pasture 

and riparian zone management practices in the Strawberry River Watershed. 

Current Status: Complete Federal Funding: $75,000 

Scheduled Completion Date: 12-31-03 Non-Federal Funding: $15,000 

Poinsett – Project 97-600 - Tailwater Recovery Demonstration: Demonstration of tailwater 

recovery as a conservation practice to reduce sedimentation and nutrient enrichment of Delta 

streams. 

Current Status: Complete Federal Funding: $170,294 

Scheduled Completion Date: 10-31-03 Non-Federal Funding: $129,569 

Fulton, Izard, Lawrence, and Sharp – Project 98-1500 - Strawberry River Forestry 

Project: Information/Education program for forest land owners concerning forestry Best 

Management Practices and use of professional foresters. 

Current Status: Complete Federal Funding: $103,060 

Scheduled Completion Date: 06-30-03 Non-Federal Funding: $84,565 

Fulton, Izard and Sharp – Project 00-600 - Strawberry River Watershed: Technical 

assistance for livestock producers in the Strawberry River Watershed concerning pasture 

improvement practices. 

Current Status: Final Report pending Federal Funding: $300,000 

Scheduled Completion Date: 12-31-03 Non-Federal Funding: $226,316 

ADEQ, Fulton, Izard, Sharp, and Lawrence – Project 00-1200 - Strawberry River NPS 

Source Inventory: Assessment of water quality in the Strawberry River and identification of 

potential sources of pollution. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $250,000 

Scheduled Completion Date: 06-30-04 Non-Federal Funding: $190,000 

St. Francis – Project 01-950 - No-Till Incentive: Technical assistance within the L’Anguille 

River watershed to reduce sediment entering the L’Anguille River through the use of Best 

Management Practices. 

Current Status: Complete Federal Funding: $30,000 

Scheduled Completion Date: 12-31-03 Non-Federal Funding: $20,000 

Jackson – Project 01-600 - Cache River Sediment Prevention Project: Technical and 

financial assistance to reduce sediment loss from row crop agriculture through the use of erosion 

control Best Management Practices and riparian area management. 

Current Status: Cancelled Federal Funding: $250,000 

Scheduled Completion Date: 01-31-04 Non-Federal Funding: $460,600 
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Craighead, Cross, Poinsett and St. Francis – Project 01-400 – Ducks Unlimited L’Anguille 

Watershed Partners Project: Technical and financial assistance to reduce sediment loss from 

row crop agriculture through the use of water control structures. 

Current Status: Complete Federal Funding: $171,000 

Scheduled Completion Date: 02-28-04 Non-Federal Funding: $204,390 

Fulton, Izard and Sharp – Project 01-800 - Strawberry River Agricultural Watershed 

Project – Reach 2 (Piney Fork): The project objective is to implement conservation plans on 

16,170 acres of pasture and in the Piney Fork Watershed. Needs for animal waste Best 

Management Practices for both dairy and poultry will be addressed, as well as practices to reduce 

sedimentation from unpaved county roads. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $300,000 

Scheduled Completion Date: 12-31-04 Non-Federal Funding: $226,316 

Craighead, Cross, Lee, Poinsett and St. Francis – Project 01-500 - L’Anguille River Water 

Quality Project: Develop a locally led watershed action strategy, provide technical and financial 

assistance for implementation conservation practices. 

Current Status: Final Report pending Federal Funding: $150,000 

Scheduled Completion Date: 12-31-03 Non-Federal Funding: $113,158 

Fulton – Project 01-1900 – Alternate Watering: Demonstrate alternative watering methods for 

cattle other than direct access to streams and establish riparian buffers along stream corridors. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $298,800 

Scheduled Completion Date: 06-30-04 Non-Federal Funding: $74,700 

Sharp – Project 01-2400 – Lower Spring River: Technical and financial assistance to 

implement Best Management Practices to protect riparian areas and improve pastureland within 

the lower Spring River watershed. 

Current Status: Complete Federal Funding: $155,200 

Scheduled Completion Date: 06-30-03 Non-Federal Funding: $41,667 

Izard – Project 01-2100 - Strawberry River Hydromulcher: Demonstrate the use of 

hydromulching as an erosion control practice for rural roads within the Strawberry River 

watershed. 

Current Status: Complete Federal Funding: $51,250 

Scheduled Completion Date: 06-30-02 Non-Federal Funding: $12,813 

Cleburne, Stone, White, and Van Buren – Project 99-1200 – Little Red River Forestry 

Landowner Education Project: Educate landowners about Best Management Practices and 

encourage them to see professional assistance in the development of forestry stewardship plans. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $157,000 

Scheduled Completion Date: 06-30-04 Non-Federal Funding: $126,494 
1-28 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

First Congressional District 

Monroe – Project 02-200 – Big Creek Tailwater Demonstration: Technical and financial 

assistance for farmers in the Lower White River Watershed. Demonstration of the effective 

use/reuse of surface waters thus minimizing sediment-laden runoff. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $153,150 

Scheduled Completion Date: 12-31-05 Non-Federal Funding: $100,501 

Stone – Project 02-400 – Stone County Conservation District: Technical and financial 

assistance to farmers in the Little Red River Watershed. This project focuses on the development 

of conservation plans and financial assistance to reduce erosion of pasturelands and 

sedimentation within the Little Red River. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $381,000 

Scheduled Completion Date: 06-30-06 Non-Federal Funding: $150,750 

Craighead – Project 02-1000 – Buffalo Island Drainage District: Technical and financial 

assistance for farmers to reduce sediment from leaving agricultural fields and entering drainage 

ways. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $305,000 

Scheduled Completion Date: 09-30-06 Non-Federal Funding: $300,000 

Lawrence – Project 03-151 – Lawrence County Mini-grant: Financial assistance to purchase 

equipment (no-till drill). 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $15,000

Scheduled Completion Date: 07-15-04 Non-federal Funding: $10,020 

Lonoke – Project 03-155 – Lonoke County Mini-grant: Financial assistance to purchase 

equipment (GPS). 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $15,000

Scheduled Completion Date: 07-15-04 Non-federal Funding: $11,800

Phillips – Project 03-156 – Phillips County Mini-grant: Financial assistance to purchase 

equipment (GPS). 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $13,800

Scheduled Completion Date: 07-15-04 Non-federal Funding: $10,620

Randolph – Project 03-158 – Randolph County Mini-grant: Financial assistance to purchase 

equipment (chipper). 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $24,600 

Scheduled Completion Date: 07-15-04 Non-federal Funding: $16,424

Fulton – Project 03-159 – Fulton County Mini-grant: Financial assistance to purchase 

equipment (no-till drill, tree planter). 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $12,436

Scheduled Completion Date: 07-15-04 Non-federal Funding: $15,735 
1-29 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

First Congressional District 

Prairie – Project 03-161 – Prairie County Mini-grant: Financial assistance to purchase 

equipment (no-till drill). 

Current Status: Active project Federal Funding: $14,000

Scheduled Completion Date: 07-15-04 Non-federal Funding: $10,500 

Clay – Project 03-200 – Clay County Sediment Prevention: Technical and financial assistance 

to farmers to reduce erosion and subsequent sediment from leaving agriculture fields and 

entering drainage ways. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $183,864 

Scheduled Completion Date: 09-30-06 Non-Federal Funding: $190,450 
1-30 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

First Congressional District 

Arkansas Association of Conservation Districts 

Contributions 

Conservation Districts Local State Other Total

 

Arkansas County CD $8,000 $32,400 $90,925 $131,325 

Baxter County CD 4,000 10,300 18,000 32,300

Buffalo CD (Searcy County) 21,180 56,600 46,000 123,780

Clay CD 10,000 28,093 7,332 45,425

Cleburne County CD 14,024 163,300 51,381 228,705

Craighead CD 5,000 18,176 47,000 70,176

Crittenden CD 12,000 25,807 15,962 53,769

Cross County CD 26,461 35,497 764 62,722

Fulton County CD 7,500 124,000 91,000 222,500

Greene County CD 10,000 15,506 26,146 51,652

Independence County CD 12,550 10,322 9,686 32,558

Izard County CD 1,500 150,800 112,000 264,300

Jackson County SWCD 17,771 35,122 39,599 92,492

Lawrence County CD 5,000 23,663 26,900 55,563

Lee County CD 12,479 19,232 12,277 43,988

Lonoke County CD 24,465 24,780 41,132 90,377

Mississippi County CD 5,000 13,882 42,559 61,441

Monroe County SWCD 6,000 46,379 26,490 78,869

Phillips County CD 2,000 13,888 15,576 31,464

Poinsett CD 14,696 28,482 32,319 75,497

Prairie County CD 18,000 13,940 55,000 86,940

Randolph County CD 11,400 16,330 7,501 35,231

Sharp County CD 3,663 76,842 22,791 103,296

St. Francis County CD 1,453 54,322 25,246 81,021

Stone County CD 10,600 79,500 51,000 141,100

Woodruff County CD 47,727 15,075 36,420 99,222

Totals $312,469 $1,132,238 $951,006 $2,395,713

(CD = Conservation District)

(SWCD = Soil and Water Conservation District) 
The Honorable

Vic Snyder

2nd Congressional District
Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Second Congressional District 

Table of Contents 

 Page

Introduction 2-1 

Census of Agriculture Data 2-2 

Natural Resources Conservation Service 

 Little Red River Irrigation Project 2-3 

 Little Red River Watershed (Land Treatment) 2-4 

 Point Remove Wetlands Reclamation and Irrigation Project (Earmarked WF-08) 2-5 

 South Fourche Watershed (Structural) 2-6 

 Farm Bill Programs 2-7 

Arkansas Association of Resource Conservation and Development Council Activities 2-8 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

 Water, Wastewater, Solid Waste, etc., Funded Projects 2-11 

 Nonpoint Source Projects Currently Being Funded 2-16 

Arkansas Association of Conservation Districts (Contributions) 2-17 
2-1 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Second Congressional District 

Introduction 

The Second Congressional District contains a mixture of metropolitan, suburban and rural 

people, and land types. In 1995, almost 29 percent of the District's population lived outside 

incorporated areas. Another 14 percent lived in 52 cities and towns of less than 10,000 people. 

Water use varied greatly in these locations. 

Except for many farmers in the District, most residents living in the metropolitan areas and 

suburbs were unaware of water quantity problems until recently. Water quality and quantity are 

critical issues for the entire state. To address these issues, the Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

initiated and/or developed various water and land projects to address the natural resource 

problems in the area's eight conservation districts. 

As the Federal Agriculture Improvement and Reform Act of 1996 (1996 Farm Bill) started 

rolling out, provisions of this historic piece of legislation began affecting how farmers would 

stay in business. Conservation district directors were charged to convene work groups of local 

residents in each district to assess the current natural resource concerns and needs. The Farm Bill 

changed conservation perspective from state and federal identification of conservation needs, to 

local identification. 

During the work group meetings, members of the Arkansas Association of Conservation 

Districts and Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission expressed their concerns about 

the following issues: 

• Act 562 of 1995 creates the Wetland Mitigation Bank, allowing for the creation, 

purchase, restoration and enhancement of wetlands by the state. 

• Act 561 of 1995 creates state tax credit incentives for the creation and restoration of 

private wetlands and riparian zones. 

• Nonpoint source pollution abatement/water quality 

• Surface water projects, mainly in the district 

These are some of the priorities of the region that are being addressed through local, state and 

federal programs, initiatives and efforts. 

Programs, such as the Conservation Reserve Program, Environmental Quality Incentives 

Program, Wetlands Reserve Program, and Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program continued to 

assist in the preservation and proper management of natural resources in 2003. 
2-2 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Second Congressional District 

Census of Agriculture Data 

Land in Farm Acres, Numbers of Farms/Average Acres, Total Acres of 

Cropland and Irrigated Acres 

County Land in 

Farm Acres 

# of

Farms

Average 

Acres

Total Acres 

Cropland 

Irrigated

Acres

 

Conway 162,732 729 223 96,363 6,744

Faulkner 211,467 1,111 190 120,064 3,268

Perry 72,711 391 186 45,380 5,333

Pulaski 110,830 421 263 77,266 20,462

Saline 50,225 329 153 26,451 438

Van Buren 132,417 578 229 61,675 429

White 394,294 167 2,361 267,983 51,073

Yell 188,480 826 228 106,620 5,191

Totals 1,323,156 4,552 479 801,802 92,938

 Information from 1997 Census of Agriculture Data
2-3 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Second Congressional District 

Little Red River Irrigation Project 

Description: This project includes southern and eastern areas of White County - approximately 

80,700 acres, of which 34,400 acres are currently irrigated. The project, which includes the 

northern portion of the central Arkansas critical ground water decline area, will help stabilize the 

local economy by providing a sustainable water supply for irrigation, fish farming and 

enhancement of fish and wildlife habitat. 

Current Status: The Little Red River Regional Irrigation Water District was formed to lead 

this effort. The irrigation district received funding from the State of Arkansas to begin studies. 

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers completed a Phase I Feasibility Study for the project. The 

Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) received funding of $375,000 to conduct 

planning and data collection during FY 2002 and again in FY 2003. The irrigation district, in 

partnership with the conservation district, provided a district technician for a year to prepare 

resource information and land use data, accelerating planning efforts. The NRCS will complete 

the water needs analysis, prepare the on-farm portion of the plan, and develop a preliminary 

delivery system layout in 2003. A final project plan/environmental impact statement is 

anticipated in 2004. 

Funds Needed: An additional $200,000 in funding is needed for FY 2004 to complete the 

project plan, and for surveying and preliminary engineering designs. Annual funding of 

approximately $4 million is needed for construction beginning in FY 2005 through completion. 

Benefits: This project supplies water for 34,400 acres of cropland. Additionally, each fall and 

winter a large portion of cropland will be flooded for waterfowl and other migratory birds. 

Scheduled Completion Date: Completion is dependent upon obtaining additional funding. 

Sponsor: Little Red River Regional Irrigation Water District 

County: White 

Contacts: State Conservationist Kalven L. Trice (501) 301-3100 

 Assistant State Conservationist for 

 Natural Resources Planning David Weeks (501) 301-3139 

 State Conservation Engineer Tony Stevenson (501) 301-3141 

 Local Irrigation District Chairman Elvis Vaughn (501) 268-5866 x 109 

Conservation District Director:

County Director Conservationist Phone

White Elvis Vaughn Dennis Mobley (501) 268-5866 x 109 
2-4 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Second Congressional District 

Little Red River Watershed (Land Treatment) 

13th Year of Installation 

Description: The watershed covers 80,700 acres, of which 34,400 acres of irrigated cropland 

are experiencing productivity declines due to a steady reduction in available irrigation water 

from ground water sources. The project calls for accelerated technical and financial assistance 

for the installation of land treatment measures to manage irrigation water. This PL 83-566 water 

conservation project provides cost-share on approved on-farm conservation practices that will 

reduce declining available ground water on 25,000 irrigated acres. 

Current Status: Began in April 1991. In FY 2003, $394,999 was available for new contracts. 

For FY 2004, approximately $150,000 in technical assistance was requested to service contracts. 

Funds Needed: Continued support is needed for national funding of the PL 83-566 program to 

meet the state's request. In FY 2005, $150,000 in technical assistance is needed to service 

contracts. 

Benefits: Will reduce the decline of available ground water, thus sustaining the present level of 

agriculture productivity. 

Scheduled Completion Date: 2005, depending on funding. 

Sponsor: White County Conservation District 

County: White 

Contact: Assistant State Conservationist for 

 Natural Resources Planning David Weeks (501) 301-3139 

Conservation District Director:

County Director Conservationist Phone

White Elvis Vaughn Dennis Mobley (501) 268-5866 x 109 
2-5 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Second Congressional District 

Point Remove Wetlands Reclamation and Irrigation 

Project 

Earmarked WF-08 

Description: This multi-objective project provides irrigation water to 14,000 acres of cropland 

and winter water for a wildlife management area. 

Current Status: The Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission made available 

$150,000 in FY 1998. The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and Ducks Unlimited as a 

portion of this project have completed a large water control structure. The Natural Resources 

Conservation Service (NRCS) completed Phase IA of the project in December 2001. Phase IB is 

under construction. Anticipated completion date is December 2003. A contract for construction 

of Phase IIA was awarded in September 2003. Construction of Phase IIB awaits funding. 

Funds Needed: An additional $3.6 million in financial and technical assistance is needed to 

install all planned water delivery measures. Sponsors continue to search for funds. On-farm 

conservation needs are being identified by NRCS. The estimated cost for on-farm work may be 

as much as $5 to 10 million. 

Benefits: The project provides an adequate surface water supply for wetland reclamation, 

cropland irrigation, and fish and wildlife habitat enhancement. 

Scheduled Completion Date: The water delivery system is scheduled for completion in 2005, 

dependent on funding. 

Sponsors: Arkansas Game and Fish Commission 

 Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

 Conway County Conservation District 

 Point Remove Wetlands Reclamation and Irrigation District 

 Pope County Conservation District 

Counties: Conway and Pope 

Contacts: State Conservationist Kalven L. Trice (501) 301-3100 

 Assistant State Conservationist for 

 Natural Resources Planning David Weeks (501) 301-3139 

 State Conservation Engineer Tony Stevenson (501) 301-3141 

 Point Remove Irrigation District Eddie Tackett (479) 641-2041 

 or Robert Carruthers (501) 354-8361 

Conservation District Directors: 

County Director Conservationist Phone

Conway Billy Deaver Ron Day (501) 354-2000 x 109 
2-6 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Second Congressional District 

South Fourche Watershed (Structural) 

Description: This PL 83-566 project provides flood protection on agricultural lands and 

provides a municipal and industrial water supply. Planned structural measures consist of seven 

floodwater-retarding structures and one multipurpose water supply structure. 

Current Status: A construction contract for $1,988,882 for Site 5, Phase I in Perry County, is 

complete. A Site 5, Phase II contract was completed in FY 1999 at a cost of $256,278. One site 

remains to be built. 

Funds Needed: Continued support is needed for national funding of the PL 83-566 program to 

meet the state's request for funding. 

Benefits: This project provides flood protection of cropland. The project is currently providing 

a municipal water supply for Perryville and surrounding communities. 

Scheduled Completion Date: Unknown. Awaiting land rights and funding for last site. 

Sponsors: City of Perryville 

 Fourche Lafave Watershed Improvement District 

 Perry County Conservation District 

 Saline County Conservation District 

 Yell County Conservation District 

Counties: Perry, Saline and Yell 

Contact: Assistant State Conservationist for 

 Natural Resources Planning David Weeks (501) 301-3139 

Conservation District Directors:

County Director Conservationist Phone

Perry (Conway SC) Billy Grounds Joe Tapp (501) 327-6509 x 110 

Saline Dr. Richard Simmons Myron Taylor (501) 778-2251 x 104 

Yell James Mitchell Stan Garner (501) 495-2441 x 107 

(SC = Service Center) 
2-7 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Second Congressional District 

Farm Bill Programs 

Environmental Quality Incentives Program - 2003 

District Number of Contracts 

Dollars 

Funded 

Applications 

Received Dollars Requested 

Second 69 $1,281,421 405 $6,621,739

Total 570 $11,343,654 4,606 $76,317,675

 

Grassland Reserve Program - 2003 

District Number of Contracts 

Dollars 

Funded 

Applications 

Received Dollars Requested 

Second 0 $0 2 $836,700

Total 11 $833,557 30 $2,897,023

 

Wetlands Reserve Program - 2003 

District 

Number of New 

Contracts 

Dollars 

Funded 

Applications 

Pending Dollars Requested 

Second 9 $674,818 51 $10,609,338

Total 51 $27,001,316 412 $109,450,057

 Total acres in program = 122,947+

 

Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program 2003 

District Number of Contacts 

Dollars 

Funded 

Applications 

Received Dollars Requested 

Second 4 $30,566 12 $79,451

Total 90 $585,339 210 $1,303,458
2-8 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Second Congressional District 

Resource Conservation and Development Activities 

Arkansas River Valley RC&D - Conway, Crawford, Franklin, Johnson, Logan, Montgomery, 

Polk, Pope, Scott, Sebastian and Yell counties 

Central Arkansas RC&D - Faulkner, Garland, Hot Spring, Lonoke, Monroe, Perry, Prairie, 

Phillips, Pulaski and Saline counties 

East Arkansas RC&D - Clay, Craighead, Crittenden, Cross, Greene, Lee, Mississippi, Poinsett, 

St. Francis and Woodruff counties 

Northwest Arkansas RC&D - Baxter, Benton, Boone, Carroll, Madison, Marion, Newton, 

Searcy and Washington counties 

Ozark Foothills RC&D - Cleburne, Fulton, Independence, Izard, Jackson, Lawrence, Randolph, 

Sharp, Stone, Van Buren and White counties 

Southeast Arkansas RC&D - Arkansas, Ashley, Bradley, Chicot, Cleveland, Desha, Drew, 

Grant, Jefferson and Lincoln counties 

Southwest Arkansas RC&D - Calhoun, Clark, Columbia, Dallas, Hempstead, Howard, 

Lafayette, Little River, Miller, Nevada, Ouachita, Pike, Sevier and Union counties 

The Arkansas River Valley RC&D Council is a sponsor of the Point Remove Wetlands 

Reclamation and Irrigation Project in Pope and Conway counties. Point Remove is a 32,000-

acre, water conservation and wildlife management project that will help restore wetlands wildlife 

habitat in the area and provide irrigation water for approximately 11,000 acres. This is a 

cooperative effort with the improvement district, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC), 

Ducks Unlimited (DU), local people, Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

(ASWCC), and Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). As part of the project, Ducks 

Unlimited constructed a water management weir, at an estimated cost of $260,000. Phase 1A of 

the water delivery system has been completed by NRCS. Work on Phase 1B will be completed in 

the summer of 2003. A contract for construction of Phase IIA was awarded in Sept. 2003. 

Construction of Phase IIB awaits funding. Estimated cost of the project is $10 million. 

134 fire departments in the Arkansas River Valley RC&D area are participating in the Rural 

Fire Protection Program. The state has made approximately $6 million available to improve fire 

protection in rural areas. The project emphasizes water supply and delivery for fire protection. 

The first step in the program is to develop master fire protection plans for all counties wishing to 

participate. Funds are then made available to address the needs identified in the plans. Those 

counties participating are improving their ability to protect life and property. 150 of 740 rural fire 

departments have reduced their ISO rating. These improvements have resulted in insurance 

premium savings of more than $22 million annually, with potential savings near $250 million 

annually. 

Each year the Arkansas River Valley RC&D sponsors a Future Farmers of America field day at 

the Booneville Fairgrounds. More than 800 students from 40 schools compete in horticulture, 

forestry, soils, crops, livestock, dairy cattle, poultry, and other areas. Awards are given in each 

area. This is a cooperative effort involving local, state and federal agencies, along with 

approximately 50 local volunteers. The field day is growing each year, with schools from as far 

away as Gurdon to the south and Bruno-Pyatt to the north attending. 
2-9 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Second Congressional District 

The Central Arkansas RC&D Council continues the restoration of the Camp Ouachita 

National Historic District in Perry County. This project is a multi-million dollar project which is 

planned to be done in four phases. The contract for Phase I was granted in May 2003, which is 

the restoration of the Great Hall/Ogden Hall. Phase I is scheduled to be completed by the end of 

February. We will then begin Phase II which will be the Lakeview Cluster and laying water 

lines. Through the help and support of Senator Blanche Lincoln we will be able to continue the 

needed restoration of Camp Ouachita. With Senator Lincoln’s assistance we were able to get a 

$365,000 Save America's Treasures grant for restoration of the Great Hall. This is the first Save 

America's Treasures monies Arkansas has ever received. With the continued support for this 

project, Senator Lincoln has been able to get two million dollars appropriated for the restoration 

of Camp Ouachita. Other contributors include Arkansas Highway Department - $400,000; 

Arkansas Department of Rural Services - $100,000; private donations - $30,000. The Central 

Arkansas RC&D Council continues to raise match funds for the Save America's Treasures grant 

through private donations, in-kind services or any non-federal monies. 

The Central Arkansas RC&D Council assisted with the Perry County Comprehensive Fire 

Protection Plan. Included in the plan are ISO requirements, departmental structure, 

administration, medical response, and woodland fire response. 

The Central Arkansas RC&D Council continues to participate and support the Rural Fire 

Protection Program for Faulkner, Perry, Pulaski, and Saline counties in the 2nd Congressional 

District. This program has provided funds totaling $424,402.42 from 1998 - 2003 for these four 

counties. 

The Ozark Foothills RC&D Council continued to assist the 117 fire departments in the council 

area to implement master fire plans. The council assisted the counties in securing $96,000 in grants 

to go to area fire departments to improve water supply and delivery. The improvements have enabled 

several fire departments to achieve lower classification and lower insurance rates for the district. 

Ozark Foothills RC&D Council continues to be involved with projects aimed at improving the 

management of privately owned forestland. In the eleven counties that make up the council there 

are more than 2.5 million acres of private forestland owned by more than 30,000 landowners - 

averaging approximately 70 acres per landowner. The council developed a partnership with 

Arkansas Forestry Commission, University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service, 

Arkansas Forestry Association, ASWCC, NRCS and AGFC with the eleven conservation 

districts to develop landowner education and technical assistance projects. 

The council is in the second year of implementing three forest landowner education projects. The 

Ozark Foothills Forest Landowner Education Project covers Jackson and Randolph counties and 

parts of the other nine counties in the council area. The council received $199,500 in grant funds 

from USDA Rural Development. The council also assisted the Cleburne County Conservation 

District in securing a $157,000 grant from the ASWCC to implement the Little Red River Forest 

Landowner Education Project, which cover parts of Cleburne, Stone, VanBuren and White 

counties. These two projects are joined by the Strawberry River Forest Landowner Education 
2-10 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Second Congressional District 

Project, which cover parts of Fulton, Izard, Lawrence and Sharp counties and was funded last 

year for $103,000. All of these are three-year projects that will include many landowner 

education activities. To date over 2,500 landowners have attended landowner workshops and 

over 300 have requested the development of Forest Stewardship Plans. 

Ozark Foothills RC&D Council has partnered with Ozark Woodland Owners Association 

(OWOA) in planning and implementing the first North Arkansas Forestry Conference. The 

conference will be held in March 2003 at the University of Arkansas Community College at 

Batesville. Forest products industry, state and federal agencies, forest landowners, educators and 

others are invited to a four day event to further the wise management of the forest resources of 

north Arkansas. OWOA received a grant from the US Forest Service to hold the event. 

Ozark Foothills RC&D Council also assisted the OWOA in securing a $20,000 grant from the 

U.S. Forest Service to conduct a landowner survey. OWOA has completed the survey and are in 

the process of writing the report. The report will be available at the North Arkansas Forestry 

conference to be held in March 2003 in Batesville. 

Ozark Foothills RC&D Council assisted the OWOA in developing a project to look at the 

economic impact of the forest products industry in the Ozark Foothills RC&D Council area. 

The University of Arkansas, School of Forest Resources in Monticello is in the process of doing 

the study. The results will be presented at the North Arkansas Forestry Conference in March 

2003 in Batesville. 

Ozark Foothills RC&D Council received an $80,000 grant from the U.S. Department of 

Energy and the Arkansas Economic Development Commission to assist a group of Jackson 

County farmers conduct a feasibility study on the use of rice straw for the production of 

“ethanol.” The sponsors have successfully determined that rice straw can be harvested in 

adequate amounts to feed an ethanol plant. The final report will be completed in March 2003. 

The project sponsors will continue to look at the possibility of developing a market for rice straw 

for energy. 

The Ozark Foothills RC&D Council continued to assist Northeast Arkansas RC&D Council

and The Nature Conservancy in the development of a project aimed at reducing sediment in the 

Cache River. The project is aimed at reducing sediment coming from cropland adjacent to the 

Cache River and its tributaries, including man-made drainage ditches. Standard, inexpensive 

water control structures will be the primary conservation practice promoted to the area farmers. 

Many agencies and organizations agreed to work together to improve this stream. 

In 2001, Ozark Foothills RC&D Council continued plans to build its own office building. The 

council completed acquisition of some commercial property in Batesville on which it plans to 

build offices for the council and others. The property is valued at $40,000 and was donated by a 

local businessman. 
2-11 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Second Congressional District 

Water, Wastewater, Solid Waste, etc., Funded 

Projects 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission (ASWCC) 

1. 145th Street SID; Pulaski County, upgrade of wastewater treatment facility. Abandon north 

treatment plant.

 $600,000 – CWSRF loan from ASWCC 

2. Bauxite, Saline County; new wastewater collection and treatment system.

 $ 280,025 - loan from ASWCC 

 $ 25,000 - deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $1,535,000 - grant from ADED 

3. Beebe, White County; construction of interceptor mains, will eliminate some pump stations. 

 $1,600,000 – CWSRF loan from ASWCC 

4. Bigelow, Perry County; sewage collection and treatment system. 

 $400,000 – loan from ASWCC 

 $2,520,260 – grant from ADED 

5. Broadmoor Recreational Improvement District No. 2; Pulaski County, re-construct emergency 

spillway. 

 $47,940 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $55,200 – grant from ASWCC 

 Up to $10,000 – grant from ASWCC 

6. Brushy Island Public Water Authority, Pulaski County; to give Brushy Island the opportunity 

to become part of the Central Arkansas Water System 

 $378,000 – loan from ASWCC 

 $206,000 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $ 25,000 – legislative grant from Act 46 of 2003 - ASWCC 

7. College Station Suburban Improvement District, Pulaski County; sewer collection system, tie 

into the city of Little Rock. 

 $103,000 - loan from ASWCC 

 $149,350 – grant from ASWCC 

 $107,500 - loan from USDA, Rural Development 

 $2,618,684 - grant from USDA, Rural Development 

 $500,000 - grant from ADED (repaving of streets) 
2-12 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Second Congressional District 

8. Community Water System, Lonoke and White counties; planning, engineering and 

construction of treatment plant upgrade and transmission lines. (This project is also located in 

the First Congressional District.)

 $35,000,000 – DWSRF loan from ASWCC 

 $ 750,000 – legislative grant from Act of 1999 - ASWCC 

 $ 400,000 – legislative grant from Act 1691 of 2001 - ASWCC 

 $ 123,732 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

9. Conway County Regional Water Distribution District; extend water service to Ada Valley and 

Petit Jean Mountain. 

 $257,500 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $978,000 – grant from ADED 

 $753,200 – loan from USDA, Rural Development 

 $861,800 – grant from USDA, Rural Development 

 $250,000 – other funds 

10. Conway, Faulkner County; relay, repair and reline the existing sewer collection system to 

decrease inflow and infiltration. 

 $9,500,000 – CWSRF loan from ASWCC 

11. Damascus; Faulkner and Van Buren counties; connect to Community Water System for 

alternative water source.

 $279,000 – loan from ASWCC 

 $265,740 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

12. Danville, Yell County; construction of a new wastewater treatment plant. 

 $1,500,000 – CWSRF loan from ASWCC 

13. Enola-Mt. Vernon Public Water Authority, Faulkner County; new water storage tank and 

upgrades of pump stations. 

 $580,000 – loan from ASWCC 

14. Faulkner County Public Facilities Board; wastewater collection and treatment facility on 

northwest shore of Lake Conway (Preston Area). 

 $ 395,000 – loan from ASWCC 

 $ 7,725 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $2,338,935 - grant from ADED 

 $ 68,000 – loan from ASWCC 

15. Ferndale Cutoff Suburban Improvement District, Pulaski County; water distribution system. 

 $1,050,000 – deferred loan from ASWCC 
2-13 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Second Congressional District 

16. Jacksonville; Pulaski County; extension of sewage collection lines to the rural area of 

Valentine/Wooten Roads and State Highway 161. Sewage will be treated by the City of 

Jacksonville. 

 $ 51,500 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $1,050,000 – grant from ADED 

17. Kanis and Denny Roads Suburban Water Improvement District No. 349, Pulaski County; 

Arkansas; waterline extensions west of Chenal Parkway. 

 $2,494,000 - loan from ASWCC 

 $ 257,500 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

18. Little Red River Irrigation District, White County; surface water diversion and piped 

distribution system. 

 $125,000 - grant from ASWCC (preliminary planning, etc.) 

19. Little Rock #4; Pulaski County, rehabilitation of sewage collection lines. 

 $12,000,000 – CWSRF loan from ASWCC 

20. Little Rock #5, Pulaski County; rehabilitation of Adams Field wastewater treatment plant. 

 $24,000,000 – CWSRF loan from ASWCC 

21. Little Rock #6, Pulaski County; rehabilitation of sewage collection lines. 

 $14,000,000 – CWSRF loan from ASWCC 

22. Little Rock #7, Pulaski County; to provide sanitary sewer collection to unsewered areas 

within the City. 

 $15,000,000 – CWSRF loan from ASWCC 

23. Maumelle Suburban Improvement District No. 500, Pulaski County; wells, storage tank, 

clarifier, filters and lime press.

 $4,436,965 - loan from ASWCC 

24. Maumelle, Pulaski County; Phase II of flood control project; construct drainage swales for 

flood prevention. Loan Agreement executed. 

 $48,925 – loan from ASWCC 

25. McRae; White County, rehabilitation and painting of water storage tank, construction of well 

house and replacement of a water line. 

 $87,550 – loan from ASWCC 
2-14 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Second Congressional District 

26. Northeast White County PWA; water transmission from Searcy to Bald Knob, Russell and 

Bradford. 

 $ 400,000 – loan from ASWCC 

 $1,749,000 – loan from USDA, Rural Development 

 $1,330,100 – grant from USDA, Rural Development 

27. North Little Rock; Pulaski County, construction of sewage collection lines to serve the Rixey 

area. 

 $ 198,850 – bond loan from ASWCC 

 $ 42,254 – grant from ASWCC 

 $2,506,921 – grant from ADED 

28. North Little Rock #4; Pulaski County, rehabilitation of the Faulkner Lake and White Oak 

Bayou wastewater treatment plants.

 $10,000,000 – CWSRF loan from ASWCC 

29. Old River Irrigation, Drainage and Water District, Pulaski County; irrigation project to 

maintain normal water levels in Old River Lake.

$225,000 – loan from ASWCC 

30. Pangburn, White County; water line extensions. 

 $193,000 – loan from ASWCC 

31. Point Remove Wetlands and Irrigation Improvement District, Conway and Pope counties, 

irrigation system for parts of Pope and Conway counties, east and southeast of Atkins. 

 $ 150,000 - grant from ASWCC 

 $ 450,000 – loan from ASWCC 

 $ 225,150 – interim loan from ASWCC 

 $5,000,000 – grant from USDA, NRCS 

32. Pleasant Oaks Sanitary Sewer Improvement District No. 31 of Saline County, Arkansas; 

rehab wastewater plant. 

 $410,000 – loan from ASWCC 

33. Runyan SID No. 211; Pulaski County, rehabilitation of wastewater treatment plant and 

grinder pump stations. 

 $1,623,600 – loan from ASWCC 

34. Salem SID #10; Saline County, rehabilitation of sewage collection system and wastewater 

treatment plant. 

 $304,000 – loan from ASWCC 
2-15 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Second Congressional District 

35. Sardis WA Public Water Authority, Saline County; new source of water for Sardis 

customers; construction of a water storage tank, and water line extensions. 

 $4,000,000 – DWSRF loan from ASWCC 

36. Shannon Hills, Saline County; extension of sanitary sewer system to areas inside the 

corporate areas of Shannon Hills. 

 $110,004 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

37. Suburban SID No. 239, Phase II, Pulaski County; sewer system extension.

 $2,315,000 - loan from ASWCC 

38. Sweet Home, Higgins & Red Oak Sewer Facilities Board; Pulaski County, construction of 

sewage collection lines. Will pump to Wrightsville for treatment. 

 $ 150,000 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $2,671,000 – loan and grant from USDA, Rural Development 

39. Toad Suck PFB, Perry County; water transmission line from Perryville and a new water 

storage tank. 

 $750,000 – loan from ASWCC 

40. Van Buren County Water Association, Pope, Searcy and Van Buren counties; waterline 

extensions. 

 $412,000 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $1,477,600 - loan from USDA, Rural Development 

 $3,353,400 - grant from USDA, Rural Development 

 $2,500,515 - grant from ADED 

41. Wooster; Faulkner County, water line extension project. 

 $206,000 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $200,000 – legislative grant from Act 1691 of 2001 - ASWCC 

 $511,500 – loan from USDA, Rural Development 

For more information, please contact: 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

Darla Brooks (501) 682-3977 
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Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Second Congressional District 

Nonpoint Source Projects Currently Being Funded 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

Van Buren – Project 00-500 - Upper Little Red River Education Project: Assessment, public 

awareness and information/education program in the Greers Ferry Lake Watershed. 

Current Status: Complete Federal Funding: $117,100 

Scheduled Completion Date: 12-21-03 Non-Federal Funding: $88,338 

Conway – Project 00-1000 - Lake Brewer: Technical and financial assistance for farmers in 

the Brewer Lake and Cadron Creek Watershed. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $200,000 

Scheduled Completion Date: 12-31-04 Non-Federal Funding: $129,497 

Pulaski – Project 00-1100 - Rock Creek Assessment: Assessment of the impact of urban NPs 

on stream water quality. 

Current Status: Completed Federal Funding: $57,034 

Scheduled Completion Date: 12-31-04 Non-Federal Funding: $43,026 

Van Buren – Project 01-1400 – Proper Cattle Heavy Use Area Design and Management 

Project: Demonstrate Best Management Practices and the most recent technology in cattle heavy 

use areas. 

Current Status: Final Report pending Federal Funding: $96,997 

Scheduled Completion Date: 12-31-03 Non-Federal Funding: $72,813 

Pulaski– Project 02-800 – Fourche Creek Watershed Recovery and Restoration: Technical 

assistance, demonstration, and education for residence in the Fourche Creek Watershed. This 

project also serves as a training area for those working professionally in the NPS management 

field to view and learn proper BMP implementation procedures and techniques. 

Current Status: Complete Federal Funding: $264,695 

Scheduled Completion Date: 09-30-05 Non-Federal Funding: $336,055 

Pulaski– Project 02-810 – Fourche Creek Watershed Recovery and Restoration Phase II:

Technical assistance, demonstration, and education for residence in the Fourche Creek 

Watershed. This project also serves as a training area for those working professionally in the 

NPS management field to view and learn proper BMP implementation procedures and 

techniques. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $119,490 

Scheduled Completion Date: 07-31-05 Non-Federal Funding: $90,140 

Van Buren – Project 03-300 - Little Red River Watershed BMP Implementation Project:

Assessment, public awareness, technical assistance and information/education program in the 

Greers Ferry Lake Watershed. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $178,175 

Scheduled Completion Date: 03-31-07 Non-Federal Funding: $44,625 
2-17 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Second Congressional District 

Arkansas Association of Conservation Districts 

Contributions 

Conservation Districts Local State Other Total

 

Conway County CD $17,000 $95,000 $4,000 $116,000 

Faulkner County CD 21,040 18,500 4,948 44,488

Perry County CD 2,300 48,000 14,000 64,300

Pulaski CD 15,000 27,786 30,843 73,629

Saline County CD 0 11,323 1,560 12,883

Van Buren County CD 19,000 51,200 36,000 106,200

White County CD 27,789 54,754 14,905 97,448

Yell County CD 14,000 37,600 4,100 55,700

Totals $116,129 $344,163 $110,356 $570,648 

(CD = Conservation District)
The Honorable

John Boozman

3rd Congressional District
Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Third Congressional District 

Table of Contents 

 Page

Introduction 3-1 

Census of Agriculture Data 3-2 

Natural Resources Conservation Service 

 Buffalo River Tributaries Watershed Project 3-3 

 Point Remove Wetlands Reclamation and Irrigation Project (Earmarked WF-08) 3-4 

 Upper Petit Jean Watershed 3-5 

 Farm Bill Programs 3-6 

Arkansas Association of Resource Conservation and Development Council Activities 3-7 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

 Water, Wastewater, Solid Waste, etc., Funded Projects 3-12 

 Nonpoint Source Projects Currently Being Funded 3-17 

Arkansas Association of Conservation Districts (Contributions) 3-22 
3-1 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Third Congressional District 

Introduction 

Livestock is the heart of the agricultural economy in the Third Congressional District. The 

District's farming operations are heavily focused in the animal production industry including 

dairy, poultry and swine operations. Arkansas is the number one broiler producing state in the 

nation, growing more than 1.2 billion birds annually, many of which are grown in this District. 

This critical component of Arkansas' economic viability has some challenges to overcome that 

include continued stress on the region's water resources and animal waste management. The 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership emphasizes proper animal waste management to aid 

livestock and poultry producers to meet their environmental challenges. 

In response to requests for technical assistance from many of the dairy, poultry and swine 

producers in the District, conservation district and Natural Resources Conservation Service 

personnel assisted many producers prepare conservation plans that address animal waste and 

nutrient management. Producers are implementing these plans to protect the quality of the 

region's valuable water resources. 

The Arkansas Conservation Partnership also gave high priority to education and the training of 

livestock and poultry producers. Training sessions were provided for the District's livestock and 

poultry producers. 

The USDA Plant Material Center, located outside of Booneville, is looking for new plants and 

ways to use plants to reduce erosion and sedimentation and improve water quality while 

providing food and shelter for wildlife and livestock and improving soil productivity. 

Provisions in the 1996 Farm Bill empowered conservation district directors to convene local 

work groups of residents in each county to identify critical natural resource needs. The Federal 

Agriculture Improvement and Reform Act of 1996 (1996 Farm Bill), calls this activity Locallyled Conservation. Every conservation district in the Third Congressional District participated. 

Programs, such as the Conservation Reserve Program, Environmental Quality Incentives 

Program, Wetlands Reserve Program, and Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program continued to 

assist in the preservation and proper management of natural resources in 2003. 
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Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Third Congressional District 

Census of Agriculture Data 

Land in Farm Acres, Numbers of Farms/Average Acres, Total Acres of 

Cropland and Irrigated Acres 

County Land in 

Farm Acres 

# of

Farms

Average 

Acres

Total Acres 

Cropland 

Irrigated

Acres

 

Benton 296,543 2,323 128 168,089 683

Boone 257,698 1,259 205 116,341 179

Carroll 242,482 1,032 235 105,428 148

Crawford 138,811 806 172 78,007 4,006

Franklin 171,391 783 219 86,214 310

Johnson 114,549 606 189 65,605 1,611

Madison 282,114 1,203 235 124,770 422

Marion 139,553 495 282 53,429 25

Newton 108,680 521 209 37,316 132

Pope 152,100 917 166 85,429 1,945

Sebastian 114,950 724 159 64,021 209

Washington 334,667 247 1,355 174,878 874

Totals 2,353,538 10,916 296 1,159,527 10,544

 Information from 1997 Census of Agriculture Data
3-3 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Third Congressional District 

Buffalo River Tributaries Watershed Project 

(The Buffalo River was designated America's first national river in 1972.) 

Description: This PL 83-566 watershed plan addresses nonpoint source pollution through costsharing for on-farm land treatment. The plan, developed by an interagency team, addresses 

concerns from an ecosystem approach. The Buffalo River attracts more than one million visitors 

annually. 

Current Status: The project was authorized August 1995 and long-term contracts with 

landowners and purchases of conservation easements began then. In FY 2003, $8,222 was 

available for contracts. Natural Resources Conservation Service requested $300,000 for contracts 

for FY 2004. 

Funds Needed: Continued support is needed for national funding of the PL 83-566 program to 

meet the state's request for watershed implementation funds. During FY 2004, $500,000 in 

financial and technical assistance is needed. 

Benefits: The Buffalo River Tributaries Watershed Project (Authority PL 83-566) is Arkansas' 

first PL 83-566 Water Quality Project. When implemented it will protect the recreational use of 

the Buffalo River. 

Scheduled Completion Date: 2005 or later, depending on funding. 

Sponsors: Buffalo Conservation District (lead sponsor) 

 Crooked Creek Conservation District 

 Newton County Soil and Water Conservation District 

Counties: Marion and Newton 

Contact: Assistant State Conservationist for 

 Natural Resources Planning David Weeks (501) 301-3139 

Conservation District Directors: 

County Director Conservationist Phone

Marion (Mt. Home SC) Burpee Burlson Buster Bodenhamer (870) 425-3527 x 106 

Newton (Harrison SC) Frank Breedlove Margaret Lonadier (870) 741-8600 x 133 

(SC = Service Center)
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Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Third Congressional District 

Point Remove Wetlands Reclamation and Irrigation 

Project 

Earmarked WF-08 

Description: This multi-objective project provides irrigation water to 14,000 acres of cropland 

and winter water for a wildlife management area. 

Current Status: The Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission made available 

$150,000 of state funding in FY 1998. The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and Ducks 

Unlimited as a portion of this project have completed a large water control structure. The Natural 

Resources Conservation Service completed Phase IA of the project in December 2001. Phase IB 

is under construction. Anticipated completion date is December 2003. A contract for 

construction of Phase IIA was awarded in September 2003. Construction of Phase IIB awaits 

funding. 

Funds Needed: An additional $3.6 million in financial and technical assistance is needed to 

install all planned water delivery measures. Sponsors continue to search for funds. On-farm 

conservation needs are being identified by NRCS. The estimated cost for on-farm work may be 

as much as $5 to 10 million. 

Benefits: The project provides an adequate surface water supply for wetland reclamation, 

cropland irrigation, and fish and wildlife habitat enhancement. 

Scheduled Completion Date: The water delivery system is scheduled for completion in 2005, 

dependent on funding. 

Sponsors: Arkansas Game and Fish Commission 

 Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

 Conway County Conservation District 

 Point Remove Wetlands Reclamation and Irrigation District 

 Pope County Conservation District 

Counties: Conway and Pope 

Contacts: State Conservationist Kalven L. Trice (501) 301-3100 

 Assistant State Conservationist for 

 Natural Resources Planning David Weeks (501) 301-3139 

 State Conservation Engineer Tony Stevenson (501) 301-3141 

 Point Remove Irrigation District Eddie Tackett (479) 641-2041 

 or Robert Carruthers (501) 354-8361 

Conservation District Director:

County Director Conservationist Phone

Pope John Berkemeyer Mickey Evans (501) 968-3497 x 10 
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Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Third Congressional District 

Upper Petit Jean Watershed 

Description: This PL 83-566 project involves seven single-purpose floodwater retarding 

structures and one multipurpose structure (flood control and municipal and industrial water) to 

provide agricultural flood protection and a water supply for Booneville. Three structures, 

including the multipurpose structure have been built. In recent years, sponsors have taken 

measures to develop a regional water supply for Logan and Scott counties, including the cities of 

Waldron, Booneville and Mansfield. A feasibility study conducted for the sponsors concluded 

that development of Site #3 of the Upper Petit Jean Watershed Project would be the most costeffective alternative. When built, it would be the second multipurpose structure. 

Current Status: Public water supplies in Waldron and Booneville, Arkansas are at or nearing 

capacity. In 1999, the sponsors requested the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) 

proceed with a plan supplement and revised Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to add 

municipal and industrial water supply to Site 3. In 2002 and 2003, $150,000 was provided to 

NRCS to continue planning the project. The sponsor's consultant's preliminary estimate of the 

total project cost for the flood control and water supply project is $21.2 million. 

Funds Needed: Continued support is needed for national funding of the PL 83-566 program to 

meet the state's request for funding. The sponsor has indicated the desire to continue planning for 

Site 3. In FY 2004, at least $150,000 is needed by NRCS to continue work on the EIS update, 

and approximately $1,400,000 is needed by the sponsor for planning work by the consultant. 

Benefits: In addition to municipal and industrial water supplies, this project provides flood 

protection of agricultural land and prevents sediment and erosion in the floodplain. 

Scheduled Completion Date: September 2004 for the draft Plan Supplement / EIS, depending 

on funding. 

Sponsors: City of Booneville 

 Logan County Conservation District 

 Scott County Conservation District 

 Sebastian County Conservation District 

 Upper Petit Jean Improvement Project Area

Counties: Logan, Scott and Sebastian 

Contact: Assistant State Conservationist for 

 Natural Resources Planning David Weeks (501) 301-3139 

Conservation District Directors:

County Directors Conservationist Phone

Sebastian W. D. Looper Neal Martin (479) 646-8300 x 111 

(SC = Service Center) 
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Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Third Congressional District 

Farm Bill Programs 

Environmental Quality Incentives Program - 2003 

District Number of Contracts 

Dollars 

Funded 

Applications 

Received Dollars Requested 

Third 98 $1,854,148 757 $8,911,350

Total 570 $11,343,654 4,606 $76,317,675

 

Grassland Reserve Program - 2003 

District Number of Contracts 

Dollars 

Funded 

Applications 

Received Dollars Requested 

Third 0 $0 0 $0

Total 11 $833,557 30 $2,897,023

 

Wetlands Reserve Program - 2003 

District 

Number of New 

Contracts 

Dollars 

Funded 

Applications 

Pending Dollars Requested 

Third 2 $828,250 7 $898,210

Total 51 $27,001,316 412 $109,450,057

 Total acres in program = 122,947+

 

Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program 2003 

District Number of Contacts 

Dollars 

Funded 

Applications 

Received Dollars Requested 

Third 33 $240,738 98 $596,915

Total 90 $585,339 210 $1,303,458
3-7 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Third Congressional District 

Resource Conservation and Development Activities 

Arkansas River Valley RC&D - Conway, Crawford, Franklin, Johnson, Logan, Montgomery, 

Polk, Pope, Scott, Sebastian and Yell counties 

Central Arkansas RC&D - Faulkner, Garland, Hot Spring, Lonoke, Monroe, Perry, Prairie, 

Phillips, Pulaski and Saline counties 

East Arkansas RC&D - Clay, Craighead, Crittenden, Cross, Greene, Lee, Mississippi, Poinsett, 

St. Francis and Woodruff counties 

Northwest Arkansas RC&D - Baxter, Benton, Boone, Carroll, Madison, Marion, Newton, 

Searcy and Washington counties 

Ozark Foothills RC&D - Cleburne, Fulton, Independence, Izard, Jackson, Lawrence, Randolph, 

Sharp, Stone, Van Buren and White counties 

Southeast Arkansas RC&D - Arkansas, Ashley, Bradley, Chicot, Cleveland, Desha, Drew, 

Grant, Jefferson and Lincoln counties 

Southwest Arkansas RC&D - Calhoun, Clark, Columbia, Dallas, Hempstead, Howard, 

Lafayette, Little River, Miller, Nevada, Ouachita, Pike, Sevier and Union counties 

The Arkansas River Valley RC&D Council is a sponsor of the Point Remove Wetlands 

Reclamation and Irrigation Project in Pope and Conway counties. Point Remove is a 32,000-

acre, water conservation and wildlife management project that will help restore wetlands wildlife 

habitat in the area and provide irrigation water for approximately 11,000 acres. This is a 

cooperative effort with the improvement district, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, Ducks 

Unlimited, local people, Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission, and NRCS. As part 

of the project, Ducks Unlimited constructed a water management weir, at an estimated cost of 

$260,000. Phase 1A of the water delivery system has been completed by NRCS. Work on Phase 

1B is under construction. Anticipated completion date is Dec. 2003. A contract for construction 

of Phase IIA was awarded in Sept. 2003. Construction of Phase IIB awaits funding. Estimated 

cost of the project is $10 million. 

134 fire departments in the Arkansas River Valley RC&D Council area are participating in the 

Rural Fire Protection Program. The state has made approximately $6 million available to 

improve fire protection in rural areas. The project emphasizes water supply and delivery for fire 

protection. The first step in the program is to develop master fire protection plans for all counties 

wishing to participate. Funds are then made available to address the needs identified in the plans. 

Those counties participating are improving their ability to protect life and property. 150 of 740 

rural fire departments have reduced their ISO rating. These improvements have resulted in 

insurance premium savings of more than $22 million annually, with potential savings near $250 

million annually. 

Each year the Arkansas River Valley RC&D Council sponsors an FFA field day at the 

Booneville Fairgrounds. More than 800 students from 40 schools compete in horticulture, 

forestry, soils, crops, livestock, dairy cattle, poultry, and other areas. Awards are given in each 

area. This is a cooperative effort involving local, state and federal agencies, along with 

approximately 50 local volunteers. The field day is growing each year, with schools from as far 

away as Gurdon to the south and Bruno-Pyatt to the north attending. 
3-8 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Third Congressional District 

The Arkansas River Valley RC&D Council is a sponsor of the Point Remove Wetlands 

Reclamation and Irrigation Project in Pope and Conway counties. Point Remove is a 32,000 acre, 

water conservation and wildlife management project that will help restore wetlands wildlife 

habitat in the area and provide irrigation water for approximately 11,000 acres. This is a 

cooperative effort with the improvement district, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, Ducks 

Unlimited, local people, Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission (ASWCC), and 

Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). As part of the project, Ducks Unlimited 

constructed a water management weir, at an estimated cost of $260,000. Phase 1A of the water 

delivery system has been completed by NRCS. Work on Phase 1B will be completed in the 

summer of 2003. Estimated cost of the project is $8 million. 

134 fire departments in the Arkansas River Valley RC&D Council area are participating in the 

Rural Fire Protection Program. The state has made approximately $6 million available to 

improve fire protection in rural areas. The project emphasizes water supply and delivery for fire 

protection. The first step in the program is to develop master fire protection plans for all counties 

wishing to participate. Funds are then made available to address the needs identified in the plans. 

Those counties participating are improving their ability to protect life and property. 150 of 740 

rural fire departments have reduced their ISO rating. These improvements have resulted in 

insurance premium savings of more than $22 million annually, with potential savings near $250 

million annually. 

The Arkansas River Valley RC&D Council is assisting with planning and coordination of the 

Logan-Scott County rural water supply project, which is being planned as part of the Upper Petit 

Jean Watershed Project under PL 83-566. This is an estimated $21.2 million cooperative project 

between Booneville, Waldron, Mansfield, and rural water districts in Logan and Scott counties to 

develop a regional water supply. A feasibility study funded by the cities and the Arkansas Soil 

and Water Conservation Commission concluded development of Upper Petit Watershed Site #3 

would be the most cost effective alternative. The city of Waldron has a critical water shortage 

and Booneville is working to address their situation before it becomes an emergency. 

Approximately 90 percent of Scott County’s rural areas are without good quality water. This 

project will provide treated water to these rural areas. 

Each year the Arkansas River Valley RC&D Council sponsors a Future Farmers of America 

field day at the Booneville Fairgrounds. More than 800 students from 40 schools compete in 

horticulture, forestry, soils, crops, livestock, dairy cattle, poultry, and other areas. Awards are 

given in each area. This is a cooperative effort involving local, state and federal agencies, along 

with approximately 50 local volunteers. The field day is growing each year, with schools from as 

far away as Gurdon to the south and Bruno-Pyatt to the north attending. 

The Arkansas River Valley RC&D Council area received two grants totaling $4,000 for the 

Milltown/Washburn Community Building. These funds were pooled with local contributions to 

match a $15,000 State Office of Rural Services Grant for the construction of a community 

building. Milltown and Washburn are unincorporated communities in Sebastian County. 
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Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Third Congressional District 

The Arkansas River Valley RC&D Council assisted community leaders and public officials, 

concerned about the area's economic future form the SEBASCOTT Economic Development 

Council. This is a community organization that serves Sebastian and Scott counties. The 

Arkansas River Valley RC&D Council helped SEBASCOTT develop a strategic plan for the 

area. The process encouraged all citizens of the area to participate in setting goals and actions to 

improve the quality of life in their communities. The strategic plan has been completed and is 

being implemented. Some of the projects that have resulted from this process are water system 

improvements for Hartford (completed this year); and a $225,000 inter-modal transportation 

(ICT) grant for main street improvements in Mansfield. Another grant is expected next year to 

extend water and natural gas service to approximately 100 rural homes in north Scott County. 

The water and gas lines were laid in the same trench, reducing construction costs. This was the 

first city water in rural areas of Scott County. Water lines were also extended to a youth facility 

south of Mansfield, serving 60 families along the way. Extending water service to approximately 

600 previously unserved homes in the south Sebastian area will cover almost all of the 

previously unserved families in the water district. 

The Arkansas River Valley RC&D Council is assisting with planning and coordination of the 

Logan-Scott County rural water supply project. This is an estimated $18 million cooperative 

project between Booneville, Waldron, Mansfield, and rural water districts in Logan and Scott 

counties to develop a regional water supply. A feasibility study funded by the cities and the 

ASWCC found development of Upper Petit Watershed Site #3 is the most cost effective 

alternative. The city of Waldron has a critical water shortage and Booneville is working to 

address their situation before it becomes an emergency. Approximately 90 percent of Scott 

County’s rural areas are without good quality water. This project will provide treated water to 

these rural areas. 

The Northwest Arkansas RC&D Council continues to promote ecotourism as one strategy for 

rural economic development. This past year they completely sold out the first printing of their 144 

page Ecotourism Development Manual. With grant assistance from the U.S. Forest Service, the 

council edited, updated, and re-printed 1,000 copies of this manual for continued distribution as a 

step-by-step guidebook for communities to use in developing ecotourism. 

The Northwest Arkansas RC&D Council has encouraged all nine counties in the area to create 

Hometown Health Improvement Coalitions. Five counties have done this and two more are currently 

in the process. Through these coalitions the council has found opportunities to reach a much broader 

audience to help them understand how conservation and management of our natural resources is not 

only related to but enhances overall community health. Some of the activities of these coalitions 

have included health fairs. Some have conducted surveys to help them determine priority health 

issues and develop prevention programs and intervention strategies. Another successful effort has 

been the “Household Hazardous Wastes (HHW) Collection Program.” This year, Boone County held 

its fifth annual HHW Round-up. More than 500 vehicles from all over the county came through the 

various check-points delivering all manner of hazardous wastes. This round-up has grown steadily 

from its inception and this year’s turnout was an all time high. Not only was there good community 

involvement in getting rid of hazardous wastes, but 101 community volunteers came to assist at the 
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Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Third Congressional District 

drop-off stations to help facilitate the process. This program is based on the sound, common-sense 

premise that the best way to dispose of many common household chemicals is to use them in 

accordance with their label directions. After collection events, untainted, usable products are 

available for free pickup by home gardeners and others who need and will properly use them. The 

paint rack has been very popular with artists, churches and scouts and other youth groups. A licensed 

hazardous waste management company securely stores banned, contaminated and any otherwise 

unusable chemicals until an economical quantity is collected. The chemicals are then safely shipped 

to the appropriate disposal facility. 

All nine counties within the Northwest Arkansas RC&D Council area participate in the 

statewide Rural Fire Protection Program (RFPP). Through this program, which is designed to 

assist rural volunteer fire departments that are ISO Class seven and above, countywide master 

fire plans were developed, then, through a competitive grant process, follow-up funding is 

provided to help the participating departments develop and improve their water supply and 

delivery systems. As these departments implement their master fire plans, they increase their 

ability to protect life and property. In many cases, these improvements resulted in lowered ISO 

ratings which, in turn, resulted in lower fire insurance premiums. To date, more than $635,000 

has been awarded to rural fire departments in the Northwest Arkansas RC&D Council area 

through the RFPP. 

The Northwest Arkansas RC&D Council received a matching grant from the USDA Forest 

Service and Arkansas Forestry Commission "Economic Action Program" for a water feasibility 

study for Newton, Searcy, Northern Johnson and northern Pope counties. This feasibility study, 

to be completed by December 30, 2003, goes beyond the traditional water needs study to address 

and analyze the economic benefits of meeting the water needs for adequate fire protection as 

well as the potable water needs for human consumption. This ties in well with our existing 

efforts to improve our rural fire departments’ emergency fire fighting capabilities through the 

RFPP. 

The Northwest Arkansas RC&D Council has provided planning and technical assistance to the 

American Association of Natural Hoof Care Practitioners (AANHCP). The AANHCP is 

developing and organizing as a not-for-profit information, education, outreach and research 

oriented association for equine owners. In December 2002, this organization held its first annual 

meeting in Harrison, Arkansas and chartered its board of directors. 

As a pilot project, and to develop a computer model to be used in other Arkansas counties, the 

Northwest Arkansas RC&D Council worked with the University of Arkansas at WestArk to 

conduct a Rural Risk Assessment in Washington County. The model is computer based using 

Geographical Information System (GIS) database technology. The GIS data layers include such 

things as the demographics, fire district response areas, fuel maps, color infrared imagery, past 

history of wildfire locations and inventory data. The council expects this model to serve as an 

outstanding inventory and planning tool, not only for rural fire protection but also for homeland 

security and other emergency services, as well. 
3-11 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Third Congressional District 

In 2003, the Northwest Arkansas RC&D Council assisted the Boone and Marion County 

conservation districts in bringing farm safety training, including farm machinery, ATV safety, 

electrical hazards, and first aid training to approximately 300 high school students. 

The Beaver Lake Watershed Partnership, an organization co-sponsored by the Northwest 

Arkansas RC&D Council, continues to function, and conduct informational and educational 

activities for the benefit of Beaver Lake and its various stakeholders. 

The Northwest Arkansas RC&D Council provided assistance to the Washington County 

Economic Development Advisory Board and other partners in planning the 2003 Northwest 

Arkansas Ozark Poultry Producer Symposium at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. This 

year’s symposium contained a producer session specifically focused on USDA-NRCS Assistance 

and Programs available to growers. 

The Northwest Arkansas RC&D Council continues its support of the Searcy County Regional 

Water District in its efforts to construct a water supply lake on upper Bear Creek. 
3-12 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Third Congressional District 

Water, Wastewater, Solid Waste, etc., Funded 

Projects 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission (ASWCC) 

1. Beaver; Carroll County; well, storage tank and water lines for the Town.

 $ 86,520 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $232,000 - loan from ASWCC 

2. Benton-Washington County Regional Public Water Authority (Gateway, Garfield & Lost 

Bridge); water transmission line from "Two-Ton's" treatment plant to Gateway, Garfield and 

Lost Bridge systems. 

 $ 323,420 - deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $ 517,500 - loan from ASWCC 

 $1,176,728 - loan from USDA, Rural Development 

 $ 30,000 - local funds 

3. Benton County Rural Development Authority: 

a. Area 2; extension of water service to central Benton County including Highfill and the 

Regional Airport (connection with Two-Ton).

 $1,090,255 - loan from ASWCC 

 $ 877,560 - deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $1,060,000 - loan from USDA, Rural Development 

 $ 37,500 - local funds 

$1,000,000 – Highfill – loan from USDA, Rural Development 

$ 216,300 – additional deferred loan from ASWCC 

b. Scenic Highway 12 extension (water source from Madison County Rural Water 

Association).

 $4,184,816 – loan from ASWCC 

 $ 226,600 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

4. Bentonville #3; Benton County, rehabilitation of wastewater treatment facility. 

 $5,500,000 – CWSRF loan from ASWCC 

5. Bentonville #4, Benton County; construction of a new wastewater treatment facility. 

 $24,000,000 – CWSRF loan from ASWCC 

6. Bethel Heights, Benton County; construction of a wastewater collection and treatment system. 

 $1,346,000 – loan from ASWCC 

7. Branch; Franklin County; wastewater collection and treatment system for Town.

 $ 113,300 – loan from ASWCC 

 $1,109,914 – grant from ADED 

 $ 414,000 – loan and grant from USDA, Rural Development 
3-13 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Third Congressional District 

8. Cave Springs; Benton County; water extensions to serve three areas in Cave City.

 $541,643 –loan from ASWCC 

 $529,014 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $100,830 - local funds 

9. Centerton; Benton County, extension of water lines into rural areas outside of the City limits. 

 $2,293,000 – loan from ASWCC 

10. Centerton, Benton County; 2nd master meter and transmission line to “Two-Ton” water 

source. 

$193,000 – loan from ASWCC 

 $ 61,800 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

11. Centerton, Benton County; construction of a wastewater flow equalization basin at the 

existing sewage pumping station. 

 $522,000 – loan from ASWCC 

12. Cotter; Baxter County, rehabilitate the Cotter/Gassville wastewater plant.

 $850,000 – CWSRF loan from ASWCC 

13. Cove, Polk County; to construct a new water storage tank. 

 $100,000 – grant from ASWCC 

 $100,000 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

14. Deer Community Water Association; Newton County; emergency connection to 

Mockingbird Hill Water Association and to Nail-Swain Water Association, filters for the 5 

existing shallow wells, development of a deep well, and a water treatment plant. 

 $ 206,000 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $1,032,800 – loan from USDA, Rural Development 

15. Elkins; Washington County; force account work by the City to locate and repair inflow and 

infiltration areas within the sewer system. 

 $50,000 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

16. Elm Springs, Benton County; construction of a wastewater collection and treatment system. 

 $1,640,000 – loan from ASWCC 

 $ 250,000 – local funds 

17. Eureka Springs; Carroll County; repairs to Leatherwood Dam.

 $103,000 – grant from ASWCC 

 $365,000 – loan from the private bond market 

 $183,655 - local funds 
3-14 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Third Congressional District 

18. Fayetteville; Washington County, construction of a new wastewater treatment plant in the 

western part of the City, rehabilitation of the existing wastewater treatment plant in the eastern 

part of the City, and rehabilitation of numerous collection sewers, interceptors, pump stations 

and force mains across the City.

$100,000,000 – CWSRF loan from ASWCC 

 $ 25,000,000 – local funds 

19. Garfield, Benton County; construct water line extensions to rural areas southeast and south of 

the Town. 

 $593,780 – loan from ASWCC 

 $196,100 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

20. Gassville; Baxter County, rehabilitate the Cotter/Gassville wastewater plant. 

 $1,755,000 – CWSRF loan from ASWCC 

21. Gateway Public Water Authority, Benton County; extension of water lines to new customers. 

 $630,000 – loan from ASWCC 

22. Gentry, Benton County; water line extension to serve Springtown community. 

 $353,900 - loan from ASWCC 

23. Gentry; Benton County, water line extension to area west of Gentry. 

 $ 206,000 – legislative grant from Act 1405 of 1999 - ASWCC 

 $2,800,140 – loan from USDA-Rural Development 

24. Huntsville; Madison County; construct collector sewer lines, a force main and replace a 

grinder pump station. 

 $573,711 – loan from ASWCC 

25. Lincoln; Washington County; extension of water service to rural areas northwest and 

southwest of the City system. 

 $ 257,000 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $2,143,168 – loan from USDA, Rural Development 

 $1,671,682 – grant from USDA, Rural Development 

 $ 46,300 – local funds 

26. Locke Fern & Dollard Road, Waterworks PBF, Crawford and Franklin counties; extension of 

water service to rural areas (Fort Smith is the water source.) 

 $ 200,000 – legislative grant from Act 1405 of 1999 – ASWCC 

 $1,109,500 – grant from USDA, Rural Development 

 $ 980,200 – loan from USDA, Rural Development 

 $ 515,000 – grant and deferred loan from ASWCC 
3-15 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Third Congressional District 

27. Lowell, Benton County, construction of sewage collection lines and a wastewater treatment 

plant for the northern portion of the City. 

 $7,000,000 – CWSRF loan from ASWCC 

28. Madison County Waterworks Facilities Board; extension of water service near Hindsville. 

 $2,800,000 – DWSRF loan from ASWCC 

 $ 206,000 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

29. Mansfield, Sebastian County; extend sewage collection lines to serve new school. 

 $200,700 – loan from ASWCC 

 $ 46,659 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

30. Milltown-Washburn Water Users, Franklin County; extension of water service to the Potts 

Road area. 

 $132,000 – loan from ASWCC 

 $316,946 – grant from ADED 

31. Mountain Home, Baxter County; rehabilitation of existing water treatment plant to include 

the replacement of filters and the addition of chlorination equipment. 

 $1,700,000 – DWSRF loan from ASWCC 

32. Omaha; Boone County; extension of water service to rural area. 

 $2,300,000 – loan from ASWCC 

33. Osage Basin Wastewater District; Benton County, land purchase and engineering for $11.3 

Million wastewater treatment facility for three (3) cities. 

 $250,000 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $430,000 – legislative grant from Act 1691 of 2001 - ASWCC 

 - construction funds are pending 

34. Pleasant View WFB of Franklin County, Arkansas; pump station and water line to tie to the 

City of Mulberry for a second water source. 

 $200,000 – loan from ASWCC 

35. Point Remove Wetlands and Irrigation District, Pope and Conway counties; irrigation 

project. 

$ 150,000 - grant from ASWCC 

 $ 450,300 – loan from ASWCC 

 $ 225,150 – interim loan from ASWCC 

 $5,000,000 – grant from USDA, NRCS 

36. Pottsville, Pope County; rehabilitation of the City’s wastewater treatment facility. 

 $490,400 – loan from ASWCC 
3-16 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Third Congressional District 

37. Rogers, Benton County; construction of an 8,000,000 gallon water storage tank and purchase 

of Bentonville’s share of the existing 24-inch and 30-inch water supply transmission lines from 

Beaver Water District. 

 $12,000,000 – DWSRF loan from ASWCC 

38. RDA of Washington County – Illinois Chapel Road extensions. 

 $585,000 – loan from ASWCC 

 $ 51,500 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

39. Siloam Springs, Benton County; rehab of collection system and treatment facility. 

 $6,000,000 – CWSRF loan from ASWCC 

40. Summit (Emergency); Marion County, replacement of grinder pumps and electrical panel 

boxes in sewage pump stations. 

 $15,000 – loan from ASWCC 

41. Valley Springs, Boone County; new water supply well and construction of a water line to 

connect the new supply to the existing distribution system. 

 $548,300 – loan from ASWCC 

42. Van Buren County Water Association, Pope, Searcy and Van Buren counties; water line 

extensions. 

 $ 412,000 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $1,477,600 - loan from USDA, Rural Development 

 $3,353,400 - grant from USDA, Rural Development 

 $2,500,515 - grant from ADED 

43. West Fork; Washington County; construction of a water storage tank.

 $225,000 – loan from ASWCC 

 $ 15,141 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

For more information, please contact: 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

Darla Brooks, 501-682-3977
3-17 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Third Congressional District 

Nonpoint Source Projects Currently Being Funded 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

Johnson and Pope – Project 99-600 - Demo of Pasture Renovation: Demonstration of use of 

a pasture aerator as a water quality conservation practice. 

Current Status: Final Report pending Federal Funding: $200,070 

Scheduled Completion Date: 12-31-03 Non-Federal Funding: $150,930 

Pope – Project 99-800 - Demonstration of Stream bank Restoration: Demonstration of 

stream bank stabilization practices in the Piney Creek Watershed. 

Current Status: Complete Federal Funding: $36,873 

Scheduled Completion Date: 02-28-03 Non-Federal Funding: $34,127 

Benton, Carroll, Madison and Washington – Project 99-1100 - Beaver Lake Watershed:

Assess water quality and nonpoint sources in the Beaver Lake Watershed. Develop a Watershed 

Restoration Action Strategy (WRAS), technical and financial assistance for agricultural 

producers, demonstration of rural roads Best Management Practices, and expansion of urban 

NPS program in the Upper White River Watershed. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $1,722,594 

Scheduled Completion Date: 06-30-04 Non-Federal Funding: $1,187,768 

Benton – Project 98-1300 - Lake Eucha: Technical assistance to livestock farmers in the 

Spavinaw Creek Watershed. Information/education program for NPS pollution in Benton 

County. 

Current Status: Completed Federal Funding: $86,428 

Scheduled Completion Date: 12-01-03 Non-Federal Funding: $76,688 

Washington – Project 98-900 - Swine Waste Demonstration and Training: Development of a 

training facility and technology transfer program for hog producers. 

Current Status: Completed Federal Funding: $300,000 

Scheduled Completion Date: 12-31-03 Non-Federal Funding: $226,316 

Washington – Project 00-400 - Mud Creek II: Urban information/education program in 

Fayetteville. 

Current Status: Complete Federal Funding: $93,480 

Scheduled Completion Date: 06-30-03 Non-Federal Funding: $77,750 

Washington – Project 98-600 - Illinois River BMP Implementation: Technical assistance to 

livestock farmers, demonstration of whole farm planning as a conservation practice. 

Current Status: Completed Federal Funding: $250,000 

Scheduled Completion Date: 03-31-03 Non-Federal Funding: $155,098 
3-18 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Third Congressional District 

Washington – Project 01-700 - Construction Site Erosion Control BMP Workshops:

Educate professionals about the recently promulgated Phase II storm water regulations and 

current Best Management Practices for erosion control. Demonstrate the proper installation, 

operation and effectiveness of construction site Best Management Practices. 

Current Status: Completed Federal Funding: $124,749 

Scheduled Completion Date: 05-30-03 Non-Federal Funding: $94,109 

Newton and Searcy – Project 99-900 - Buffalo River Riparian Restoration: Demonstration 

of conservation easements to protect and improve riparian buffers. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $215,823 

Scheduled Completion Date: 06-30-04 Non-Federal Funding: $169, 630 

Washington – Project 01-1100 - Lincoln Lake: Develop a watershed management plan and 

assess the problems in the implementation of Best Management Practices to insure the success of 

future conservation practices. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $272,713 

Scheduled Completion Date: 01-31-05 Non-Federal Funding: 206,120 

Benton, Carroll, Madison, Washington – Project 01-1200 – Beaver Lake Education Project: 

Generate community awareness of non-point source pollution and its impacts through public 

education programs within the watershed. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $300,000 

Scheduled Completion Date: 06-30-04 Non-Federal Funding: $226,300 

Benton – Project 01-1300 – Watershed Approach to Onsite Wastewater: Assess the impacts 

of urbanization and urban onsite wastewater systems to aid in the development of urban nonpoint source pollution management plans. 

Current Status: Completed Federal Funding: $73,469 

Scheduled Completion Date: 06-30-03 Non-Federal Funding: $57,198 

Newton – Project 01-1800 – Buffalo River Cost Share 

Technical and financial assistance to landowners in the watershed to utilize Best Management 

Practices to minimize nutrients and sediment impacts to streams and water bodies within the 

watershed. 

Current Status: Completed Federal Funding: $128,500 

Scheduled Completion Date: 06-30-03 Non-Federal Funding: $32,125 

Benton – Project 01-2000 – Spavinaw Creek CNMP Cost Share: Technical and financial 

assistance to landowners in the watershed to utilize Best Management Practices to minimize 

nutrients impacts within the watershed. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $298,580 

Scheduled Completion Date: 06-30-04 Non-Federal Funding: $153,400 
3-19 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Third Congressional District 

Johnson, Newton, Pope – Project 01-2200 – Piney Creek Roadside Erosion Project 

Utilization of Best Management practices and hydro-seeding along roadsides to minimize 

erosion and sediment from entering the Piney Creek Watershed 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $110,240 

Scheduled Completion Date: 06-30-04 Non-Federal Funding: $27,560 

Scott – Project 02-300 – Poteau River: Technical and financial assistance for farmers in the 

Poteau River Watershed. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $241,000 

Scheduled Completion Date: 12-31-05 Non-Federal Funding: $108,500 

Washington – Project 02-500 – Ballard Creek BMP Implementation: Technical transfer, 

assistance, education and financial assistance for farmers in the Ballard Watershed. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $436,470 

Scheduled Completion Date: 01-31-05 Non-Federal Funding: $109,118 

Carroll – Project 02-600 – Table Rock Tributaries: Technical, financial assistance, and 

equipment for BMP implementation in the Table Rock Lake Watershed. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $380,000 

Scheduled Completion Date: 09-30-04 Non-Federal Funding: $100,435 

Newton – Project 02-700 – Buffalo River Watershed Dairy Assistance Program: Technical 

and financial assistance for farmers in the Buffalo River Watershed. 

Current Status: Completed Federal Funding: $132,043 

Scheduled Completion Date: 07-31-05 Non-Federal Funding: $91,406 

Benton – Project 02-900 – Rogers Greenway Development: Technical assistance for the City 

of Rogers to demonstrated the use of greenways as a method to control and reduce urban 

Nonpoint source pollution in the Illinois River Watershed. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $490,000 

Scheduled Completion Date: 07-31-06 Non-Federal Funding: $378,000 

Washington – Project 02-1200 – Beaver Lake Watershed Decision Support: Technical 

assistance to provide viable management strategies for Nonpoint source pollution managers with 

in the Beaver Lake Watershed. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $269,973 

Scheduled Completion Date: 07-31-05 Non-Federal Funding: $205,909 

Boone – Project 03-150 – Boone County Mini-grant: Financial assistance to purchase 

equipment (aerator). 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $3,078

Scheduled Completion Date: 07-15-04 Non-Federal Funding: $7,357
3-20 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Third Congressional District 

Newton – Project 03-160 – Newton County Mini-grant: Financial assistance to purchase 

equipment (no-till drill, rotowiper). 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $12,600

Scheduled Completion Date: 07-15-04 Non-Federal Funding: $15,030

Washington – Project 03-400 – Urban Nutrient Management: The objective of this project is 

to implement BMPs in the urban areas of the Illinois River, Washington County, Arkansas 

(Fayetteville and Springdale areas) to control the amount, timing, and placement of soil nutrients 

for the purpose of reducing nonpoint source of soil nutrients particularly phosphorus. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $33,508 

Scheduled Completion Date: 10-01-06 Non-Federal Funding: $24,753 

Washington – Project 03-500 – West Fork of the White River Watershed Coordination:

Coordinate a watershed group and plan that will develop and implement strategies for reducing 

non-point source pollutants in the watershed, while raising awareness and education for the 

development of healthy watersheds within the State. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $123,709 

Scheduled Completion Date: 09-30-05 Non-Federal Funding: $139,332 

Washington – Project 03-800 – Litter Combustion: The overall goal of the project is to 

accelerate implementation of on-farm litter combustion as an alternative to land application of 

litter, with the intent to reduce non-point pollution of surface water and groundwater in 

Northwest Arkansas and other areas of intense poultry production. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $142,500 

Scheduled Completion Date: 08-15-05 Non-Federal Funding: $107,500 

Washington and Benton– Project 03-900 – Litter Bank: To determine the feasibility of 

establishing and operating the Ozark Poultry Litter Bank (OPLB). The establishment of a litter 

back will facilitate and coordinate the removal and transport of litter from excess nutrient areas 

of the State. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $192,400 

Scheduled Completion Date: 09-30-05 Non-Federal Funding: $170,620 

Washington and Benton and Oklahoma – Project 03-1000 – Stamper - anaerobic digestion 

of litter: Demonstrate the effectiveness of proprietary, advanced thermal/chemical/biochemical 

process technology for cost-effective conversion of poultry waste (poultry litter and caged layer 

manure) into commercially viable energy and chemical products (on a commercial scale). This is 

a joint project with the State of Oklahoma and Arkansas. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $800,000 

Scheduled Completion Date: 04-30-05 Non-Federal Funding: $585,000 
3-21 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Third Congressional District 

Washington and Benton – Project 03-1100 – Litter Transport: : Provide the method(s) for 

the export of litter from contract grower operations within the Eucha/Spavinaw and Illinois River 

(ES/IR) watershed in northwest Arkansas (NWA) to row crop, pasture, forage, grass and forest 

lands of Arkansas outside the surplus nutrient watersheds as defined by ASWCC. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $500,000 

Scheduled Completion Date: 12-31-06 Non-Federal Funding: $333,334 
3-22 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Third Congressional District 

Arkansas Association of Conservation Districts 

Contributions 

Conservation Districts Local State Other Total

Benton County CD $5,600 $150,000 $63,000 $218,600 

Boone County CD 11,200 10,300 5,000 26,500

Carroll County CD 0 61,000 43,000 104,000

Crawford County CD 9,000 18,100 6,100 33,200

Crooked Creek SWCD (Marion County) 2,205 42,600 34,000 78,805

Franklin County SWCD 15,500 54,200 3,000 72,700

Johnson County CD 15,900 29,250 3,000 48,150

Madison County SWCD 3,000 145,000 12,000 160,000

Newton County SWCD 8,000 73,000 12,000 93,000

Pope County CD 20,805 58,200 40,000 119,005

Sebastian County CD 32,000 50,600 21,500 104,100

Washington County CD 20,000 193,900 6,100 220,000

Totals $143,210 $886,150 $248,700 $1,278,060 

(CD = Conservation District) 

(SWCD = Soil and Water Conservation District) 
The Honorable

Mike Ross

4th Congressional District
Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Fourth Congressional District 

Table of Contents 

 Page

Introduction 4-1 

Census of Agriculture Data 4-2 

Natural Resources Conservation Service 

 Bayou Meto Project 4-3 

 Boeuf-Tensas Project 4-4 

 Gould Portion of Grady-Gould Watershed (Structural) 4-5 

 Maniece Bayou Irrigation Project 4-6 

 North Fork of Ozan Creek Watershed (Structural) 4-7 

 Ozan Creeks Watershed (Structural) 4-8 

 Plant Materials Center 4-9 

 Upper Petit Jean Watershed 4-10 

 Walnut Bayou Irrigation Project 4-11 

 Farm Bill Programs 4-12 

Arkansas Association of Resource Conservation and Development Council Activities 4-13 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

 Water, Wastewater, Solid Waste, etc., Funded Projects 4-17 

 Nonpoint Source Projects Currently Being Funded 4-23 

Arkansas Association of Conservation Districts (Contributions) 4-25 
4-1 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Fourth Congressional District 

Introduction 

Water quality and quantity are critical natural resource issues in the Fourth Congressional 

District. Local conservation district directors work with land users to save what is left in the 

alluvial aquifer, which is the region's major source of irrigation and drinking water. 

The alluvial aquifer has provided 85 percent of the irrigation water needed in the area since the 

early 1980s; however, the ground water recharge has been unable to keep pace with the 

tremendous demand for water. Additionally, rainfall has been unable to replenish the falling 

water tables. According to water experts, water tables have dropped rapidly in the aquifer, in the 

range of one to two feet per year in many locations. The Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation 

Commission designated portions of six counties in central and eastern Arkansas as Critical 

Ground Water Depletion Areas. (The designation is under appeal.)

All or parts of four active irrigation districts are in the southeastern region of the state. The 

irrigation districts, which include Bayou Meto, Boeuf-Tensas, Grand Prairie and Plum Bayou 

offer hope of keeping producers in business and, in Plum Bayou, are providing irrigation water. 

Local residents support these projects. Many of them met with local conservation district 

directors to identify irrigation and other natural resource needs in the District. 

Unlike the water quantity needs in the southeastern region of the District, water quality is the 

primary natural resource concern in the southwestern region. Legislation has been passed to 

ensure lakes and streams in the area maintain their present condition or return to their previous 

quality. Conservation district directors responded by addressing animal waste management of 

livestock, poultry and swine operations. 

Programs, such as the Conservation Reserve Program, Environmental Quality Incentives 

Program, Wetlands Reserve Program, and Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program continued to 

assist in the preservation and proper management of natural resources in 2003. 
4-2 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Fourth Congressional District 

Census of Agriculture Data 

Land in Farm Acres, Numbers of Farms/Average Acres, Total Acres of 

Cropland and Irrigated Acres 

County Land in 

Farm Acres 

# of

Farms

Average 

Acres

Total Acres 

Cropland 

Irrigated

Acres

 

Ashley 165,826 299 555 138,220 90,966

Bradley 28,900 249 116 14,642 1,242

Calhoun 17,622 112 157 10,354 76

Chicot 287,962 361 798 253,709 116,473

Clark 96,301 376 256 50,509 1,954

Cleveland 32,824 222 148 13,609 27

Columbia 57,683 313 184 26,114 213

Dallas 23,228 121 192 9,109 4

Desha 275,954 302 914 257,230 159,403

Drew 122,552 342 358 93,855 49,007

Garland 43,471 360 121 20,524 80

Grant 32,519 215 151 15,818 7

Hempstead 189,435 752 252 89,581 859

Hot Spring 75,305 447 168 37,106 1,101

Howard 108,020 656 165 53,534 1,644

Jefferson 288,655 362 797 258,344 146,774

Lafayette 97,701 261 374 66,707 10,345

Lincoln 184,232 292 631 155,781 98,176

Little River 146,344 381 384 83,228 925

Logan 199,294 953 209 106,932 1,112

Miller 154,096 502 307 105,300 8,352

Montgomery 74,260 417 178 36,043 216

Nevada 72,810 372 196 36,642 117

Ouachita 29,449 177 166 13,164 0

Pike 73,211 406 180 32,985 679

Polk 133,203 850 157 61,327 680

Scott 115,733 655 177 56,275 0

Sevier 133,466 588 227 63,217 1,315

Union 34,150 281 122 13,667 0

Totals 3,294,206 11,624 288 2,173,526 691,747

 Information from 1997 Census of Agriculture Data
4-3 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Fourth Congressional District 

Bayou Meto Project 

Cooperative with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Memphis and Vicksburg 

districts, and the Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

Description: Develop a plan to protect ground water resources in eastern Arkansas by 

providing a sustained water supply for irrigation, fish farming and enhancement of fish and 

wildlife habitat. 

Current Status: The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), in cooperation with 

irrigation and conservation districts and the Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission, 

completed the initial on-farm portion of the plan. The Corps of Engineers (COE) is nearing 

completion of planning for the irrigation delivery system, flood control and drainage analysis. 

The NRCS made approximately $2,540,000 of Environmental Quality Incentives Program 

financial assistance available to individuals within this area during 2003 and expects continued 

use of this program by farmers during 2004. 

Funds Needed: $10 million in financial assistance is needed each year after the plan is 

approved to assist farmers with on-farm conservation practice installation. Approximately $1.2 

million is needed in technical assistance annually to use the financial assistance. Total estimated 

project cost is more than $318 million, including the delivery system. 

Benefits: The project provides an adequate water supply for 431,000 acres of cropland. 

Additionally, 55,000 acres of cropland will be flooded in the fall and winter for waterfowl. 

Scheduled Completion Date: The on-farm portion of the resource management plan for this 

area was completed and delivered to the sponsors in FY 1997. The target date for final plan 

completion is directly related to COE and NRCS funding and staffing.

Sponsor: Bayou Meto Regional Irrigation Water Distribution District 

Counties: Arkansas, Jefferson, Lonoke and Prairie 

Contacts: State Conservationist Kalven L. Trice (501) 301-3100 

 Assistant State Conservationist for 

 Natural Resources Planning David Weeks (501) 301-3139 

 State Conservation Engineer Tony Stevenson (501) 301-3141 

 Irrigation District Executive Director Gene Sullivan (501) 676-7420 

 Irrigation District Chairman Gary Canada (501) 842-2555 

Conservation District Director: 

County Director Conservationist Phone

Jefferson Ron Blankenship Levell Foote (870) 534-3200 x 112 
4-4 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Fourth Congressional District 

Boeuf-Tensas Project 

Cooperative with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Vicksburg District and 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

Description: The project area, which includes approximately 1.2 million acres of which 

800,000 acres are cropland, is experiencing ground water declines and serious salinity problems. 

Current Status: The Corps of Engineers (COE), Vicksburg District began the initial planning 

phase of this project and the state of Arkansas and local sponsors provided the necessary 

matching funds. The Arkansas Conservation Partnership is participating in this planning effort. 

Funds Needed: Continued support for funding of approximately $1.4 million in FY 2004 and 

FY 2005 is needed for the COE and the Natural Resources Conservation Service to meet the 

planning schedule. Local sponsors and the State of Arkansas have raised $800,000 to match 

federal funds for planning. Local and state matching funds of this magnitude and greater are 

needed in future years. 

Benefits: An adequate irrigation water supply for more than 800,000 acres of cropland, 

preserves drinking water for rural communities, and includes wildlife enhancement measures. 

Scheduled Completion Date: Detailed planning started. Completion date has not been set. 

Sponsors: Ashley County Conservation District Boeuf-Tensas Irrigation District 

 Chicot County Conservation District Desha County Conservation District 

 Drew County Conservation District Jefferson County Conservation District 

 Lincoln County Conservation District 

Counties: Chicot and Desha--portions of Ashley, Drew, Jefferson and Lincoln 

Contacts: State Conservationist Kalven L. Trice (501) 301-3100 

 Assistant State Conservationist for 

 Natural Resources Planning David Weeks (501) 301-3139 

 State Conservation Engineer Tony Stevenson (501) 301-3141 

 Irrigation District Executive Director Ann Cash (870) 222-6595 

Conservation District Directors: 

County Director Conservationist Phone

Ashley Eddie Scherm Bryan Hollis (870) 853-9881 x 110 

Chicot Herman Berkemeyer Reginald Liddell (870) 265-5312 x 107 

Desha William Teeter Gwen Handcock (870) 222-4867 x 111 

Drew Gary Shrum Ron Hayes (870) 367-3446 

Jefferson Ron Blankenship Levell Foote (870) 534-3200 x 112 

Lincoln L. E. Branson Jr. Robert Hankins (870) 628-4542 x 113 
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Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Fourth Congressional District 

Gould Portion of Grady-Gould Watershed 

(Structural) 

Description: This project addresses flood damages to the low-income, minority community of 

Gould by using channel work and nonstructural measures. 

Current Status: The channel design is complete. Community leaders and the sponsors are 

obtaining land rights so channel construction can begin. A significant obstacle is the cost of 

replacing a railroad bridge. 

Funds Needed: Continued support is needed for national funding of the PL 83-566 program to 

meet the state's request. 

Benefits: The project benefits 1,030 minorities. When implemented, it will provide flood 

protection to cropland, 91 homes and 11 businesses in Gould. 

Scheduled Completion Date: 2006 

Sponsors: Desha County Conservation District 

 Lincoln County Conservation District 

Counties: Desha and Lincoln 

Contact: Assistant State Conservationist for 

 Natural Resources Planning David Weeks (501) 301-3139 

Conservation District Directors: 

County Director Conservationist Phone

Desha William Teeter Gwen Handcock (870) 222-4867 x 111 

Lincoln L. E. Branson Jr. Robert Hankins (870) 628-4542 x 113 
4-6 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Fourth Congressional District 

Maniece Bayou Irrigation Project 

Cooperative with Lafayette County Conservation District and Arkansas Soil and 

Water Conservation Commission 

Description: This irrigation project area is located in Lafayette County, Arkansas. The project 

area includes about 20,000 acres of potentially irrigated acres. 

Current Status: An irrigation district has not been formed, however, a Board of Directors has 

been initiated and by-laws developed. There is great interest in developing an irrigation system 

to deliver surface water to the area from the Red River. The local sponsors are attempting to 

obtain $200,000 in funding for planning the project. 

Funds Needed: Funding is needed in the amount of $200,000 for FY 2005 to complete a 

feasibility study. 

Benefits: This project supplies water for 20,000 acres of cropland. 

Scheduled Completion Date: Dependent upon funding. 

Sponsor: Lafayette County Conservation District 

 Southwest Arkansas RC&D Council, Inc. 

Counties: Lafayette 

Contacts: State Conservationist Kalven L. Trice (501) 301-3100 

 Assistant State Conservationist for 

 Natural Resources Planning David Weeks (501) 301-3139 

 State Conservation Engineer Tony Stevenson (501) 301-3141 

 Conservation District Chairman Lile Kitchens (870) 921-4990 

 Southwest Arkansas RC&D Coordinator Charlie Williams (870) 863-5678 

Conservation District Director:

County Director Conservationist Phone

Lafayette Gayther Crank Che Gordon (870) 921-4206 x 107 
4-7 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Fourth Congressional District 

North Fork of Ozan Creek Watershed (Structural) 

Description: To protect agricultural land from flooding, eight single-purpose floodwaterretarding structures and 18 miles of channel were to be constructed. 

Current Status: Construction is complete on six floodwater-retarding structures. The planned 

channel was modified and selective clearing and snagging performed on 18 miles of channel, 

improving drainage while maintaining the integrity of the channel. The City of Nashville is 

considering using one of the remaining sites as a municipal water supply. Natural Resources 

Conservation Service representatives met with the Mayor of Nashville and other city officials to 

discuss the possibility of Site 6 as a municipal water supply site. The city is currently looking at 

alternatives for new water supply sources and is very interested in the project. The other site lies 

within the Southwest Proving Grounds; the Improvement District requested the Corps of 

Engineers perform a search for unexploded ordinance to prepare for construction of the site. 

Funds Needed: Continued support is needed for national funding of the PL 83-566 program to 

meet the state's request for funding. 

Benefits: The project provides flood protection to cropland, pastureland and rural residents. 

Scheduled Completion Date: 2010 

Sponsor: North Fork of Ozan Creek Improvement District 

Counties: Hempstead, Howard and Pike 

Contacts: Assistant State Conservationist for 

 Natural Resources Planning David Weeks (501) 301-3139 

 Assistant State Conservationist for 

 Field Operations, South Ray Linder (870) 367-8400 x 6 

 Project Engineer Pat Henry (870) 777-8800 x 6 

 Chairman, North Fork of Ozan 

 Improvement District Ava Nell Harris (870) 845-4134 

Conservation District Director:

County Director Conservationist Phone

Howard Francis Bell Clint Ramsey (870) 845-4121 x 107 
4-8 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Fourth Congressional District 

Ozan Creeks Watershed (Structural) 

Description: To protect agricultural land from flooding, 22 single-purpose floodwater-retarding 

structures are to be installed. 

Current Status: To date a total of eight floodwater-retarding structures have been constructed. 

Site 15 was completed in August 2001 at a cost of $486,700. 

Funds Needed: Continued support is needed for national funding of the PL 83-566 program 

to meet the state's request for funding. Funds in the amount of $741,000 were requested for FY 

2004 to construct Site 12. Additional funds will be needed for additional sites in future years. 

Benefits: The project provides flood protection to cropland and pastureland. 

Scheduled Completion Date: 2009 

Sponsor: Ozan Creeks Watershed Improvement District 

County: Hempstead 

Contacts: Assistant State Conservationist for 

 Natural Resources Planning David Weeks (501) 301-3139 

 Assistant State Conservationist for 

 Field Operations, South Ray Linder (870) 367-8400 x 6 

 Project Engineer Pat Henry (870) 777-8800 x 6 

Conservation District Director:

County Director Conservationist Phone

Hempstead Bobby Webb Gary Childress (870) 777-8800 x 110 
4-9 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Fourth Congressional District 

Plant Materials Center 

Separate Facilities for Booneville Plant Materials Center and Agricultural 

Research Service 

Description: The Booneville Plant Materials Center (PMC) and Agricultural Research Service 

(ARS) currently share the same building.

Current Status: Offices have become very crowded. Land for an office building is currently 

available. Three PMC employees are using make-shift offices in the seed-cleaning building as of 

2003. Only two PMC employees are still housed in the ARS building. 

Funds Needed: One time line item--$275,000. 

Benefits: Higher efficiency by PMC and ARS staff. 

Scheduled Completion Date: Dependent upon appropriation of funds. 

County: Logan 

Contacts: State Resource Conservationist Jim Caudle (501) 301-3122 

 Plant Materials Center Manager Randy King (479) 675-5182 
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Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Fourth Congressional District 

Upper Petit Jean Watershed 

Description: This PL 83-566 project involves seven single-purpose floodwater retarding 

structures and one multipurpose structure (flood control and municipal and industrial water) to 

provide agricultural flood protection and a water supply for Booneville. Three structures, 

including the multipurpose structure have been built. In recent years, sponsors have taken 

measures to develop a regional water supply for Logan and Scott counties, including the cities of 

Waldron, Booneville and Mansfield. A feasibility study conducted for the sponsors concluded 

that development of Site #3 of the Upper Petit Jean Watershed Project would be the most costeffective alternative. When built, it would be the second multipurpose structure. 

Current Status: Public water supplies in Waldron and Booneville, Arkansas are at or nearing 

capacity. In 1999, the sponsors requested the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) 

proceed with a plan supplement and revised Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to add 

municipal and industrial water supply to Site 3. In 2002 and 2003, $150,000 was provided to 

NRCS to continue planning the project. The sponsor's consultant's preliminary estimate of the 

total project cost for the flood control and water supply project is $21.2 million. 

Funds Needed: Continued support is needed for national funding of the PL 83-566 program to 

meet the state's request for funding. The sponsor has indicated the desire to continue planning for 

Site 3. In FY 2004, at least $150,000 is needed by NRCS to continue work on the EIS update, 

and approximately $1,400,000 is needed by the sponsor for planning work by the consultant. 

Benefits: In addition to municipal and industrial water supplies, this project provides flood 

protection of agricultural land and prevents sediment and erosion in the floodplain. 

Scheduled Completion Date: September 2004 for the draft Plan Supplement / EIS, depending 

on funding. 

Sponsors: City of Booneville; Logan County, Scott County, and Sebastian County 

 Conservation Districts; Upper Petit Jean Watershed Improvement District

Counties: Logan, Scott and Sebastian 

Contact: Assistant State Conservationist for 

 Natural Resources Planning David Weeks (501) 301-3139 

Conservation District Directors:

County Directors Conservationist Phone

Logan James Hawkins Bill Pugh (479) 963-2612 x 108 

Scott (Ft. Smith SC) Ann Blythe Neal Martin (479) 646-8300 x 111 

 Phillip Holloway 

 (SC = Service Center)
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Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Fourth Congressional District 

Walnut Bayou Irrigation Project 

Cooperative with Little River Conservation District and Arkansas Soil and Water 

Conservation Commission 

Description: This irrigation project is located in Little River County, Arkansas. The project 

area includes approximately 23,500 acres of potentially irrigated cropland. 

Current Status: An Irrigation District consisting of approximately 18,000 acres of cropland 

has been formed. The local sponsors obtained $100,000 in funding for project planning through 

the Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission in FY 2001 and an additional $125,000 

in NRCS earmarked funds in FY 2002. The Draft Plan/Environmental Assessment (Plan/EA) 

and the preliminary design of Phase I were completed in FY 2003. 

Funds Needed: It is estimated that approximately $11.1 million is needed to construct this 

project beginning in FY 2005. Project construction could be phased in three phases costing 

between $3 million to $4 million each. Sponsors need an additional $300,000 for legal expenses, 

design study, and easements in FY 2004.

Benefits: This project supplies water for up to 23,500 acres of cropland and enhanced 

waterfowl habitat. 

Scheduled Completion Date: The Plan/EA will be completed in FY 2004, pending funding. 

Completion of project depends on availability of construction funding. 

Sponsor: Walnut Bayou Irrigation District

Co-Sponsors: Little River County Conservation District 

 Southwest Arkansas RC&D 

County: Little River 

Contacts: State Conservationist Kalven L. Trice (501) 301-3100 

 Assistant State Conservationist for 

 Natural Resources Planning David Weeks (501) 301-3139 

 State Conservation Engineer Tony Stevenson (501) 301-3141 

 Assistant State Conservationist for 

 Field Operations, South Ray Linder (870) 367-8400 x 6 

 Conservation District Director Otto Cowling (870) 898-3611 

 Irrigation District Chairman Ottis McElhannon (870)542-6879 

Conservation District Directors: 

County Director Conservationist Phone

Little River Dwayne Raper, Chairman Russell Fleharty (870) 898-3611 x 102 

Little River Otto Cowling, Sec./Treas. 
4-12 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Fourth Congressional District 

Farm Bill Programs 

Environmental Quality Incentives Program - 2003 

District Number of Contracts 

Dollars 

Funded 

Applications 

Received Dollars Requested 

Fourth 180 $2,534,242 1,021 $18,154,293

Total 570 $11,343,654 4,606 $76,317,675

 

Grassland Reserve Program - 2003 

District Number of Contracts 

Dollars 

Funded 

Applications 

Received Dollars Requested 

Fourth 3 $181,680 11 $1,116,973

Total 11 $833,557 30 $2,897,023

 

Wetlands Reserve Program - 2003 

District 

Number of New 

Contracts 

Dollars 

Funded 

Applications 

Pending Dollars Requested 

Fourth 11 $10,904,458 77 $27,914,018

Total 51 $27,001,316 412 $109,450,057

 Total acres in program = 122,947+

 

Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program 2003 

District Number of Contacts 

Dollars 

Funded 

Applications 

Received Dollars Requested 

Fourth 6 $27,986 10 $70,615

Total 90 $585,339 210 $1,303,458
4-13 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Fourth Congressional District 

Resource Conservation and Development Activities 

Arkansas River Valley RC&D - Conway, Crawford, Franklin, Johnson, Logan, Montgomery, 

Polk, Pope, Scott, Sebastian and Yell counties 

Central Arkansas RC&D - Faulkner, Garland, Hot Spring, Lonoke, Monroe, Perry, Prairie, 

Phillips, Pulaski and Saline counties 

East Arkansas RC&D - Clay, Craighead, Crittenden, Cross, Greene, Lee, Mississippi, Poinsett, 

St. Francis and Woodruff counties 

Northwest Arkansas RC&D - Baxter, Benton, Boone, Carroll, Madison, Marion, Newton, 

Searcy and Washington counties 

Ozark Foothills RC&D - Cleburne, Fulton, Independence, Izard, Jackson, Lawrence, Randolph, 

Sharp, Stone, Van Buren and White counties 

Southeast Arkansas RC&D - Arkansas, Ashley, Bradley, Chicot, Cleveland, Desha, Drew, 

Grant, Jefferson and Lincoln counties 

Southwest Arkansas RC&D - Calhoun, Clark, Columbia, Dallas, Hempstead, Howard, 

Lafayette, Little River, Miller, Nevada, Ouachita, Pike, Sevier and Union counties 

The Arkansas River Valley RC&D Council is a sponsor of the Point Remove Wetlands 

Reclamation and Irrigation Project in Pope and Conway counties. Point Remove is a 32,000-

acre, water conservation and wildlife management project that will help restore wetlands wildlife 

habitat in the area and provide irrigation water for approximately 11,000 acres. This is a 

cooperative effort with the improvement district, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, Ducks 

Unlimited, local people, Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission, and Natural 

Resources Conservation Service. As part of the project, Ducks Unlimited constructed a water 

management weir, at an estimated cost of $260,000. Phase 1A of the water delivery system has 

been completed by NRCS. Work on Phase 1B will be completed in the summer of 2003. 

Estimated cost of the project is $8 million. 

134 fire departments in the Arkansas River Valley RC&D Council area are participating in the 

Rural Fire Protection Program. The state has made approximately $6 million available to 

improve fire protection in rural areas. The project emphasizes water supply and delivery. The 

first step in the program is to develop master fire protection plans for all counties wishing to 

participate. Funds are then made available to address the needs identified in the plans. Those 

counties participating are improving their ability to protect life and property. 150 of 740 rural fire 

departments have reduced their ISO rating. These improvements have resulted in insurance 

premium savings of more than $22 million annually, with potential savings near $250 million 

annually. 

The Arkansas River Valley RC&D Council sponsors an annual Future Farmers of America 

field day at the Booneville Fairgrounds. More than 800 students from 40 schools compete for 

awards in horticulture, forestry, soils, crops, livestock, dairy cattle, poultry, and other areas. 

Local, state and federal agencies, along with approximately 50 local volunteers have contributed 

to the event’s success, with schools from as far away as Gurdon to the south and Bruno-Pyatt to 

the north attending. 
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Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Fourth Congressional District 

The Arkansas River Valley RC&D Council area received two grants totaling $4,000 for the 

Milltown/Washburn Community Building. These funds were pooled with local contributions to 

match a $15,000 State Office of Rural Services Grant for the construction of a community 

building. Milltown and Washburn are unincorporated communities in Sebastian County. 

The Arkansas River Valley RC&D Council received a donation of commercial property for the 

Petit Jean Regional Foundation. This property was held until the foundation obtained its 501(c)3 

status; then transferred to the foundation. A manufacturer that is expected to employ 50 to 100 

people in Franklin and Logan counties is now occupying the property. With the proceeds used to 

benefit local non-profit activities. 

The Arkansas River Valley RC&D Council assisted community leaders and public officials, 

concerned about the area's economic future form the SEBASCOTT Economic Development 

Council. This is a community organization that serves Sebastian and Scott counties. The 

Arkansas River Valley RC&D Council helped SEBASCOTT develop a strategic plan for the 

area. The process encouraged all citizens of the area to participate in setting goals and actions to 

improve the quality of life in their communities. The strategic plan has been completed and is 

being implemented. Some of the projects that have resulted from this process are water system 

improvements for Hartford (completed this year); and a $225,000 inter-modal transportation 

(ICT) grant for main street improvements in Mansfield. Another grant is expected next year to 

extend water and natural gas service to approximately 100 rural homes in north Scott County. 

The water and gas lines were laid in the same trench, reducing construction costs. This was the 

first city water in rural areas of Scott County. Water lines were also extended to a youth facility 

south of Mansfield, serving 60 families along the way. Extending water service to approximately 

600 previously unserved homes in the south Sebastian area will cover almost all of the 

previously unserved families in the water district. 

The Arkansas River Valley RC&D Council is assisting with planning and coordination of the 

Logan-Scott County rural water supply project, which is being planned as part of the Upper Petit 

Jean Watershed Project under PL 83-566. This is an estimated $21.2 million cooperative project 

between Booneville, Waldron, Mansfield, and rural water districts in Logan and Scott counties to 

develop a regional water supply. A feasibility study funded by the cities and the ASWCC 

concluded development of Upper Petit Watershed Site #3 would be the most cost effective 

alternative. The city of Waldron has a critical water shortage and Booneville is working to 

address their situation before it becomes an emergency. Approximately 90 percent of Scott 

County’s rural areas are without good quality water. This project will provide treated water to 

these rural areas. 

The Central Arkansas RC&D Council assisted with the Master Fire Plan for the Jessieville 

Volunteer Fire Department in Garland County. Included in the plan are ISO requirements, 

departmental structure, administration, medical response, and woodland fire response. 
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Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Fourth Congressional District 

The Central Arkansas RC&D Council continues to participate and support the Rural Fire 

Protection Program for Hot Spring and Garland counties in the 4th Congressional District. Funds 

through this program for Hot Spring County have totaled $100,891.53 for the years 1998-2003. 

The Southeast Arkansas RC&D Council continues to work on the existing projects from 2002 

including the Tarry Community Park, West-Saline Rural Water Extension, Jordan Park Pool 

Renovation, and the Monticello Swim Team Pool. However, in 2003 the council adopted several 

additional projects. They are the Southeast Arkansas Forestry Museum and Nature Trail, City of 

Altheimer Revitalization, City of Reed Drainage Improvement Plan, Tarry Community Center, 

and Thomas Store Historic Preservation. 

In Cleveland County, the Southeast Arkansas RC&D Council continues to work with the 

group of rural citizens to obtain a rural water system. Most of these individuals are elderly and 

cannot continue to have to work on a well pump system. 

In Drew County the Southeast Arkansas RC&D Council is sponsoring the Southeast Arkansas 

Forestry Museum and Nature Trail. A steering committee of volunteers from the forest industry 

throughout Southeast Arkansas has been established in order to bring this project to fruition. Dr. 

Fred Taylor, Chancellor at the University of Arkansas at Monticello (UAM) provided the council 

with a building site on the property of UAM to construct the museum. This project will be 

completed in three broad phases: planning, construction, and close out and evaluation. We have 

just recently completed the grant proposal for Phase I and are awaiting funding. 

The City of Altheimer in Jefferson County is a poor farming community with very little revenue. 

The council is working with the city on a revitalization project. We are currently drafting a grant 

proposal for the purchase of an old antebellum home constructed around 1850. With the 

purchase of this property, we hope to generate tourism dollars for the Altheimer. In addition, in 

this same proposal we are going to renovate an existing building in Altheimer for a computer 

learning and job training center. This project is just getting started. We are currently in the 

process of completing the needs assessments for this project. 

The Southeast Arkansas RC&D Council is also assisting the City of Reed in Desha County to 

secure funding to implement a drainage improvement plan that was completed by the NRCS. 

The city needs approximately $285,000 dollars to implement the drainage plan. The council is 

currently seeking funding for this project. 

The Southeast Arkansas RC&D Council is assisting the community of Tarry in Lincoln 

County with the final phase of their FUN Park. A $25,000 grant was awarded to Tarry to 

construct the park. The land has been cleared and is just about ready to install the playground 

equipment. We are also working with Tarry to construct a community center on the same 

property as the FUN Park and to restore the Thomas Store in Tarry. Thomas Store was 

constructed sometime around 1850. 
4-16 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Fourth Congressional District 

The Southeast Arkansas RC&D Council participates in the Rural Fire Protection Program. In 

2003, 11 volunteer fire departments received funding through this program for a total of $29,000 

in Southeast Arkansas. The council continues to encourage fire departments to participate in the 

program. Drew County had their first department participate in the program in 2003. A master 

fire plan was developed for the Valley Fire Department. Additional departments have been 

contacted and they are preparing their paperwork in order to participate in the program. 

The Southwest Arkansas RC&D Council participates in the Rural Fire Protection Program. 

The Council assisted in administration of $46,857 in grant funds to 17 fire departments in FY 

2003. To date, 13 Southwest Arkansas RC&D counties are now participating in the program. 

The Southwest Arkansas RC&D Council is currently assisting Lower Little River Watershed 

Coalition. The coalition, comprised of Howard, Hempstead, Little River, Miller, Polk and Sevier 

counties, formed to provide leadership to protect water quality in the Lower Littler River 

Watershed in Southwest Arkansas. The council was productive in assisting the Coalition in 

obtaining a 501 © 3 IRS Tax Status. The council also provides assistance to the Coalition in 

administrative duties and planning of information education activities. 

The Southwest Arkansas RC&D Council is continuing assistance to the Walnut Bayou 

Irrigation Project. The purpose is to provide an alternative to ground water for crop irrigation for 

23,500 acres. To date the Council assisted the Project in obtaining an official status an Irrigation 

District. The Walnut Bayou Irrigation District became an official entity on May 28, 2003 with 

the designation of five (5) Commissioners. Congressional earmarks for FY 2004 are tentatively 

allocated for $300,000. This would bring to a total of $825,000 to assist with project planning 

and design. Also, two information education meeting were held to assist land users in preparation 

for proper water application once project is installed. 

The Southwest Arkansas RC&D Council is continuing to assist the Maniece Bayou Irrigation 

Project. The purpose is to provide an alternative to ground water for crop irrigation for 50,000 

acres. To date the Council assisted with forming a project steering committee that will take 

actions towards obtaining adequate resources to conduct a project feasibility study. The group 

has developed bylaws, held project information meetings and reviewed Arkansas Watershed 

Improvement District Formation code. 

The Southwest Arkansas RC&D Council assisted in developing the South Arkansas Forestry 

Outreach Initiative, a partnership effort of the Arkansas Forestry Commission, Arkansas Forestry 

Association, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Southeast Arkansas Resource Conservation 

and Development Project Area, Inc. and the Southwest Arkansas Resource Conservation and 

Development Project Area, Inc. The initiative is designed to increase minority and limited 

resource land user participation in programs that aid in the implementation of forestry best 

management practices. A total of $107,500 is dedicated to the initiative. 

The Southwest Arkansas RC&D Council assisted Calhoun County with development of an 

action plan to address flooding issues in communities located in cities of Hampton, Thornton and 
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Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Fourth Congressional District 

Harrell. The NRCS assisted by developing a preliminary drainage improvement project plan to 

be used to assist in quantifying project needs to potential project sponsors. The project is in need 

of $998,200 to complete the necessary improvements. 
4-18 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Fourth Congressional District 

Water, Wastewater, Solid Waste, etc., Funded 

Projects 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission (ASWCC) 

1. Acorn Rural Water Association, Polk and Montgomery counties; construction of water line 

extensions from the Acorn Community east to link with Cherry Hill and Pine Ridge. Project will 

include two water storage tanks. 

 $ 200,000 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $1,364,850 – loan from USDA, Rural Development 

 $ 726,225 – grant from USDA, Rural Development 

2. Arkadelphia, Clark County; improvements to the City’s existing water treatment plant. 

 $3,500,000 – DWSRF loan from ASWCC 

3. Bayou Meto Irrigation District, Arkansas, Jefferson, Lonoke and Prairie counties; to help pay 

for administrative costs associated with information and education programs and, and funds for 

planning and preliminary design. (This project is also located in the First Congressional 

District.) 

 $360,000 – grant and loan from ASWCC 

 $600,000 – legislative grant from Act 1691 of 2001 - ASWCC

 $100,000 – legislative grant from Act 46 of 2003 - ASWCC 

4. Boeuf-Tensas Regional Irrigation Water Distribution District, Ashley, Drew, Chicot, Desha 

and Jefferson counties; coordinate and prepare a study of a multipurpose flood control and 

comprehensive agricultural water supply including system of distribution channels for irrigation. 

 $1,115,450 - grant from ASWCC 

 $7,750,000 – U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Vicksburg District 

5. Bradley County, AR WFB; Corinth-Valley, extension of water service from Warren east 

across the Saline River. 

 $292,900 – loan from ASWCC 

 $150,000 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

6. Camden, Ouachita County; modifications to water treatment plant. 

 $8,500,000 – DWSRF loan from ASWCC 

 $1,500,000 – EDA grant 

7. Chicot-Desha River Agricultural & Industrial Development Corp., Chicot County; well, water 

storage tank and water lines to serve the Yellow Bend Port facility from Dermott.

 $ 50,500 – loan from ASWCC 

 $ 50,500 – grant from ASWCC 

 $600,000 – grant from EDFCOA 
4-19 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Fourth Congressional District 

8. Clark County Conservation District, Clark County; construction and equipping of new District 

Office to be located in Arkadelphia.

 $500,000 – legislative grant from Act 1405 of 1999 - ASWCC 

 $150,000 – legislative grant from Act 1691 of 2001 - ASWCC 

 $450,000 – Southwest Arkansas Technological Learning Center 

 $100,000 - legislative grant from Act 46 of 2003 - ASWCC 

9. Cove; Polk County, sewage collection and treatment system. 

 $ 51,000 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $2,248,500 – loan and grant from USDA, Rural Development 

10. Cove; Polk County, construction of a water storage tank. 

 $100,000 – loan from ASWCC 

 $100,000 – grant from ASWCC 

11. Crossett, Ashley County; rehabilitation of the sewage collection system and modifications to 

the wastewater treatment plant.

 $6,000,000 – CWSRF loan from ASWCC 

12. Dorcheat Waterworks Facilities Board of Columbia County; develop a new water supply 

well. 

 $100,000 – loan from ASWCC 

 $103,000 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

13. Fountain Hill, Ashley County; rural water extension. 

 $ 191,168 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

$2,832,800 - loan and grant from USDA-Rural Development 

14. Foreman, Little River County; for extension of sewer service to an unserved area along 

Shuman and 10th Avenue. 

 $165,995 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

15. Glenwood, Pike County; rehab of wastewater treatment facility. 

 $3,500,000 – CWSRF loan from ASWCC 

16. Glenwood, Pike County; water service to rural customers. 

 $4,500,000 – DWSRF loan from ASWCC 

17. Gould, Lincoln County; wastewater system improvements, which includes pump station 

upgrades, wastewater treatment plant upgrades and collection line repairs. 

 $ 50,000 – grant from ASWCC 

 $241,720 – grant from USDA, Rural Development 
4-20 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Fourth Congressional District 

18. Humphrey; Jefferson County; construction of treatment plant and storage tank. 

 $650,000 – loan from ASWCC 

 $120,000 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

19. Lawson-Urbana Public Water Association, Union County; to develop a new well to provide 

for water line replacement and to raise the existing tank 30 feet. 

 $365,000 – loan from ASWCC 

 $266,000 – loan from the Community Resources Group 

20. Little River County RDA; water service to rural customers. 

 $6,500,000 – DWSRF loan from ASWCC 

21. Magnolia, Columbia County; water treatment plant expansion, raw water storage and 

distribution system improvements.

 $4,000,000 – DWSRF loan from ASWCC 

 $1,000,000 – grant from EDA 

22. Magnolia, Columbia County; sewage interceptor in northeast portion of City to relieve 

sewage overflows. 

 $126,690 – loan from ASWCC 

23. Malvern, Hot Spring County; intake structure on Ouachita River, sedimentation basin, 

distribution lines, water storage tank and treatment plant. 

 $20,000,000 – DWSRF loan from ASWCC 

 ($4,000,000 for the tank and water lines have been expended.) 

24. Malvern, Hot Spring County; construction of a water line and improvements to provide water 

for sale by the municipalities of Poyen and Tull and the Fenter Community. 

 $2,300,000 – loan from ASWCC 

 $ 200,000 – no interest loan from ASWCC 

25. Mena; Polk County, extension of rural water service to the Board Camp Community. 

$ 980,000 – loan from ASWCC 

 $2,184,470 – grant from ADED 

 $ 7,000 – local funds 

26. Mitchellville, Desha County; rehab of wastewater treatment facility.

$90,000 – grant from ASWCC 

 $90,000 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

27. Montgomery County Waterworks Facilities Board, Montgomery County; funding for revised 

cultural resources survey as part of the Rural Development environmental report. 

 $8,400 – deferred loan from ASWCC 
4-21 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Fourth Congressional District 

28. Monticello, Drew County; new well and water storage in northwest portion of the City. 

 $1,200,000 – loan from ASWCC 

29. Murfreesboro, Pike County; modifications to water treatment plant. 

 $3,000,000 – DWSRF loan from ASWCC 

30. Nashville, Howard County; upgrade of the water treatment plant. 

 $5,000,000 – DWSRF loan from ASWCC 

31. Oden, Montgomery County; develop a shallow well for temporary water supply. (Oden will 

connect to Acorn Water Association for source water in the future.) 

 $15,553 – grant from ASWCC 

32. Ozan Creek Waterworks Facilities Board, Hempstead County; to construct a rural water 

system in Northern Hempstead County consisting of the area south of Ozan Creek. 

 $1,766,000 – loan from ASWCC 

 $3,144,513 – grant from ADED 

33. Pine Bluff SID #39, Jefferson County; extension of sewage collection lines. 

 $1,400,000 – CWSRF loan from ASWCC 

34. Prescott, Nevada County Rural Water System; construction of a rural water system.

 $1,531,500 - loan from ASWCC 

 $2,633,495 – grant from ADED 

35. Redfield, Jefferson County; construction of water storage tank and booster pump station. 

 $574,700 – loan from ASWCC 

36. Red River Commission, Miller, Lafayette and Little River counties; for study and planning of 

impacts along Red River. 

 $10,000 – grant from ASWCC 

37. Smackover, Union County; extend sewage collection lines to unsewered area of the City and 

repair old lines throughout collection system.

 $795,800 –loan from ASWCC 

 $623,400 – grant from ADED 

38. Southeast Bradley County Water Association, Bradley County; extension of water service to 

the Gravel Ridge and Moro Bay areas. 

 $140,000 – deferred loan from ASWCC 
4-22 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Fourth Congressional District 

39. Southwest Arkansas Water System, Inc.; Hempstead and Howard counties; extension of 

water service to McNabb, Saratoga, Columbus, Cross-Roads, Springhill, and other rural areas. 

Water source is Hope.

 $ 206,000 – legislative grant from Act 1405 of 1999 - ASWCC 

 $2,272,930 – grant from USDA, Rural Development 

 $1,830,070 – loan from USDA, Rural Development 

 $ 44,000 – local funds 

40. Sparkman, Dallas County; extension of water service to unserviced areas. 

 $ 35,000 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $200,000 – loan from USDA, Rural Development 

 $450,000 – grant from USDA, Rural Development 

 $ 5,000 – local funds 

41. Strong, Union County; replacement well. 

 $128,750 – loan from ASWCC 

42. Texarkana, Miller County; consolidation of two rural water systems. 

 $6,000,000 – DWSRF loan from ASWCC 

43. Texarkana, Miller County; new wastewater plant on north side and line rehabilitation. 

 $4,100,000 – CWSRF loan from ASWCC 

44. Texarkana #2, Miller County; new wastewater plant on north side and line rehabilitation. 

 $750,000 – CWSRF loan from ASWCC 

45. Texarkana #3, Miller County; line work rehabilitation. 

 $1,000,000 – CWSRF loan from ASWCC 

46. Tull, Grant and Saline counties; extension of water service to about 15 additional residences 

and correction of low pressure problems, both along Bauxite Cutoff Road.

 $103,000 – loan from ASWCC 

 $50,000 – local funds 

47. Union County Public Facilities Board: Lisbon Water Association; new well. 

 $173,000 - loan from ASWCC 

48. Waldron; Scott County; feasibility study for water supply lake at Site 3, upper Petit Jean 

Watershed. 

 $20,600 – grant from ASWCC 

 $10,000 – local funds from Waldron 

 $10,000 – local funds from Booneville 

49. Washington, Hempstead County; sandblasting and painting of water storage tank. 
4-23 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Fourth Congressional District 

 $41,200 – loan from ASWCC 

 $50,000 – local funds 

50. West Crossett Sewer Public Facilities Board; Ashley County; construction of a sewage 

collection system. Sewage treatment by City of Crossett. 

 $ 985,000 – loan from ASWCC 

 $ 350,000 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $2,115,000 – grant from ADED 

51. Whelen Springs, Clark County; extension of water service to unserviced areas. 

 $ 68,495 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $294,400 – loan from USDA, Rural Development 

 $237,400 – grant from USDA, Rural Development 

 $ 4,000 – local funds 

52. Wilmar, Drew County; sewage collection line extensions. 

 $60,000 – deferred loan from ASWCC 

 $85,000 – grant from ASWCC 

For more information, please contact: 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

Darla Brooks, 501-682-3977 
4-24 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Fourth Congressional District 

Nonpoint Source Projects Currently Being Funded 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

Ouachita and Union – Project 01-2300 - Smackover Creek Watershed: Demonstration of 

conservation practices to restore production to salt affected soils. 

Current Status: Final Report pending Federal Funding: $175,000 

Scheduled Completion Date: 12-31-03 Non-Federal Funding: $132,018 

Hempstead, Howard, Little River, Polk, and Sevier – Project 00-700 - Lower Little River 

Red Project: Information/education from U of A Cooperative Extension to support the 

development of a Watershed Restoration Action Strategy (WRAS). 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $240,000 

Scheduled Completion Date: 04-31-04 Non-Federal Funding: $181,052 

Hempstead, Howard, Little River, Polk and Sevier – Project 00-1400 - Millwood 

Watershed Project: Development of a watershed restoration action strategy, technical and 

financial assistance for agricultural producers in the Millwood Watershed. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $456,098 

Scheduled Completion Date: 11-30-05 Non-Federal Funding: $327,856 

Ashley and Drew – Project 00-1300 - Bayou Bartholomew, South: Technical and financial 

assistance for farmers in Bayou Bartholomew Watershed, South. 

Current Status: Active (Ashley Co only) Federal Funding: $1,391,336 

Scheduled Completion Date: 06-30-04 Non-Federal Funding: $53,443 

Ashley, Drew, Jefferson and Lincoln – Project 01-200 - Streamside Timber Harvest and 

Management in the Bayou Bartholomew Watershed: Training for private landowners 

regarding options for timber harvests and appropriate conservation practices. 

Current Status: Completed Federal Funding: $22,900 

Scheduled Completion Date: 09-30-02 Non-Federal Funding: $18,000

Ashley, Drew, Jefferson and Lincoln – Project 02-1100 – Bayou Bartholomew NPS 

Abatement: Technical and financial assistance for farmers in the Bayou Bartholomew 

Watershed to implement a variety of BMPs to reduce sediment loading. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $600,000 

Scheduled Completion Date: 12-31-05 Non-Federal Funding: $550,634

Lincoln – Project 03-152 – Lincoln County Mini-grant: Financial assistance to purchase 

educational and public awareness equipment. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $1,449 

Scheduled Completion Date: 07-15-04 Non-Federal Funding: $967 
4-25 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Fourth Congressional District 

Little River – Project 03-153 – Little River County Mini-grant: Financial assistance to 

purchase educational and public awareness equipment. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $15,042 

Scheduled Completion Date: 07-15-04 Non-Federal Funding: $11,082 

Logan – Project 03-154 – Logan County Mini-grant: Financial assistance to purchase 

equipment (manure spreader). 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $14,000 

Scheduled Completion Date: 07-15-04 Non-Federal Funding: $24,558 

Polk – Project 03-157 – Polk County Mini-grant: Financial assistance to purchase equipment 

(no-till drill). 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $12,000

Scheduled Completion Date: 07-15-04 Non-Federal Funding: $8,800 
4-26 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Fourth Congressional District 

Arkansas Association of Conservation Districts 

Contributions 

Conservation Districts Local State Other Total

Ashley County CD $4,000 $35,389 $24,210 $63,599 

Calhoun County CD 5,000 10,000 10,286 25,286

Chicot County CD 2,000 14,442 51,429 67,871

Clark County CD 12,615 363,785 772,806 1,149,206

Cleveland County CD 2,445 11,274 296 14,015

Columbia County CD 7,650 35,565 11,420 54,635

Cossatot CD (Sevier County) 6,000 94,658 11,189 111,847

Dallas County SWCD 12,180 13,726 5,688 31,594

Desha County CD 9,050 13,193 25,638 47,881

Drew County CD 7,000 14,507 13,927 35,434

Garland County CD 13,125 14,319 15,052 42,496

Grant County CD 24,465 12,061 41,132 77,658

Hempstead County SWCD 5,804 37,356 17,653 60,813

Hot Spring County CD 4,756 45,037 12,721 62,514

Jefferson County CD 0 22,052 15,576 37,628

L'Aigle Creek CD (Bradley County) 14,696 10,034 32,319 57,049

Lafayette CD 6,000 19,987 52,679 78,666

Lincoln County CD 1,295 56,930 21,333 79,558

Little River CD 9,250 40,690 12,628 62,568

Logan County CD 15,000 54,517 35,000 104,517

Miller County CD 19,008 22,025 15,738 56,771

Mine Creek SWCD (Howard County) 1,975 41,301 64,765 108,041

Montgomery County CD 5,778 10,823 153,591 170,192

Nevada County CD 357 10,120 3,907 14,384

Ouachita CD 1,400 45,142 2,026 48,568

Pike County CD 24,985 50,655 34,312 109,952

Poteau River CD (Scott County) 4,000 65,100 9,000 78,100

Rich Mountain CD (Polk County) 3,000 39,672 4,704 47,376

Union County CD 37,688 87,760 7,669 133,117

Totals $260,522 $1,292,120 $1,478,694 $3,031,336 

(CD = Conservation District) 

(SWCD = Soil and Water Conservation District) 
Statewide

Activities
Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Statewide 

Table of Contents 

 Page

Census of Agriculture Data 5-1 

Natural Resources Conservation Service 

 Digital Orthophotography Program 5-2 

 Environmental Quality Incentives Program 5-3 

 Emergency Watershed Protection Program 5-4 

 Grassland Reserve Program 5-5 

 National Cooperative Soil Survey Program 5-6 

 National Resources Inventory 5-7 

 Watershed Protection and Flood Prevention Program (Public Law 83-566) 5-8 

 Small Watershed Rehabilitation Amendments of 2000 (Public Law 106-472) 

 and the 2002 Rural Security and Investment Act 5-9 

 Soil Survey Geographic Initiative 5-10 

 Wetlands Reserve Program 5-11 

 Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program 5-12 

 Farm Bill Programs 5-13 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

 Arkansas Private Wetland and Riparian Zone Creation and Restoration 

 Tax Incentive Program 5-14 

 Arkansas Wetland Conservation Plan 5-15 

 Arkansas Wetland Mitigation Bank 5-16 

 Beaver Tailwater Restoration and Habitat Improvement 5-17 

 Grants to Districts Program 5-18 

 Nonpoint Source Pollution Grant Program 5-19 

 Nonpoint Source Projects Currently Being Funded 5-20 

 Nonriparian Permitting 5-21 

 Quality Assurance / Quality Control 5-22 

 Tax Incentives - Water Resource Conservation and Development Incentives Act 5-23 

 Technical Review Committee 5-24 

Arkansas Association of Conservation Districts (Contributions) 5-25 
5-1 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Statewide 

Census of Agriculture Data 

Land in Farm Acres, Numbers of Farms/Average Acres, Total Acres of 

Cropland and Irrigated Acres 

District Land in

Farm Acres

# of

Farms

Average 

Acres

Total Acres 

Cropland 

Irrigated 

Acres

1st Congressional 

District 

7,299,234 13,541 761 5,927,434 2,921,944

2nd Congressional 

District 

1,323,156 4,552 479 801,802 92,938

3rd Congressional 

District 

2,353,538 10,916 296 1,159,527 10,544

4th Congressional 

District 

3,294,206 11,624 288 2,173,526 691,747

Statewide Totals 14,270,134 40,633 351.1956784 10,062,289 3,717,173

Information from 1997 Census of Agriculture Data
5-2 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Statewide 

Digital Orthophotography Program 

Natural Resources Conservation Service 

Description: Digital orthophotos are the digital representation of aerial photographs or other 

remotely sensed data with ground features located in their true map position. The National 

Digital Orthophoto Program is a multi-federal and state agency effort to develop and maintain 

digital orthophoto quads (DOQ) for the nation. 

Current Status: DOQs for Arkansas that were developed from 1994 aerial imagery are 

available for the state. A cooperative project is currently underway to develop color digital 

orthophotos for the state from photography. 

Funding Needed: Continued support is needed for national funding of the Digital 

Orthophotography Program. 

Benefits: DOQs are one of the critical spatial data layers required to fully use the functionality 

of Geographical Information System (GIS) in USDA Field Service Centers. DOQs are the base 

map used to develop digital soils layers for county soil surveys. Other Federal agencies, state 

agencies, county governments, universities, and the public also use DOQs in GIS. 

Sponsors: Natural Resources Conservation Service 

 Farm Services Agency 

 U.S. Forest Service 

 U.S. Geological Service 

Area: Statewide 

Contact: State Conservationist Kalven L. Trice (501) 301-3100 
5-3 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Statewide 

Environmental Quality Incentives Program 

Natural Resources Conservation Service 

Description: The Environmental Quality Incentives Program provides technical and financial 

assistance to eligible farmers and ranchers to address soil, water, and related natural resource 

concerns on their lands in an environmentally beneficial and cost-effective manner. The purposes 

of the program are accomplished through implementation of conservation plans, which includes 

structural, vegetative, and land management practices. One to ten-year contracts are made with 

eligible producers. Sixty percent of the funding is to be targeted to natural resource concerns 

related to livestock production. The program addresses significant natural resource concerns 

throughout the state. 

Current Status: Approximately $11,500,000 was available for assistance to producers during 

2003. This allowed the selection of 570 applications for funding. 

Funding Needed: The Natural Resources Conservation Service had an unfunded need of 

approximately $65,000,000 at the end of 2003. Increased funding and procedural changes should 

help reduce the highly competitive nature of the program experienced in 2003 resulting in better 

distribution of funds. 

Benefits: Primary resource concerns addressed include water conservation, ground water 

decline, water quality from animal waste and nutrients, water quality from sedimentation, 

forestry concerns and wildlife habitat. Farming operations assisted include irrigators facing 

serious ground water decline and water conservation needs; livestock producers including dairy, 

poultry, and swine operations needing to implement animal waste systems; operations needing 

assistance to install pasture improvements, erosion control measures and wildlife habitat 

improvements; and forest landowners needing assistance with water quality concerns and forest 

health issues. 

Sponsors: Natural Resources Conservation Service 

 Farm Service Agency 

Area: Statewide 

Contacts: State Resource Conservationist Jim Caudle (501) 301-3122 

 Resource Conservationist Kenneth Lee (501) 301-3165 
5-4 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Statewide 

Emergency Watershed Protection Program 

Natural Resources Conservation Service 

Description: Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) assists landowners and communities 

relieve imminent hazards to life and property from floods and products of erosion created by 

natural disasters that are causing a sudden impairment of a watershed. Other disasters that can 

trigger the program include tornadoes and wildfires. 75 percent financial assistance is available 

for eligible measures. The Floodplain Easement feature of the program purchases easements 

from willing landowners to reduce economic damages to frequently flooded areas. Natural 

Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) pays for the agricultural value of the land and pays 100 

percent of the restoration costs. 

Current Status and Program accomplishments in FY 2003 to relieve threats to life and 

property: 

The EWP program stands ready to assist landowners and communities recover from natural 

disasters. NRCS employees throughout the state go to affected areas as soon as safety permits 

after a disaster strikes. They assess damages and work with local officials so that EWP program 

assistance gets on the ground in short order. Due to a relatively calm year for natural disasters, 

no new EWP projects were initiated in FY 2003. 

EWP Floodplain Easement restoration activities were completed on all easements in FY 2003. 

Restoration consists of restoring wetland hydrology and planting native species of hardwood 

trees. Total EWP floodplain easement program accomplishments are 4,165 acres of easements, 

on 14 easement properties. Total costs for purchase were $2,734,237; total restoration costs were 

$613,529. 

Funds Needed: Support is needed for both the regular EWP and Floodplain Easement 

programs when Supplemental Appropriations require additional funding to meet disaster 

recovery needs. NRCS has a backlog of more than 60 properties comprising approximately 

15,000 acres eligible for purchase of floodplain easements whose owners have an interest in 

wetlands restoration. 

Benefits: EWP assisted more than 1,400 landowners in Arkansas from FY 1999 through FY 

2002 by relieving threats to life and property caused by natural disasters. Through the efforts and 

contributions of local and state agencies, EWP has accomplished stream bank protection, 

removal of flood debris blockages from streams, cleanup of tornado debris and installation of 

firebreaks after ice storms. Floodplain easements reduce economic damages from flooding by 

taking land out of agricultural production and restore wildlife and other environmental values 

through restoration of native vegetation and hydrology. 

Contacts: State Conservationist Kalven L. Trice (501) 301-3100 

 Assistant State Conservationist for 

 Natural Resources Planning David Weeks (501) 301-3139 
5-5 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Statewide 

Grassland Reserve Program 

Natural Resources Conservation Service 

Description: The Grassland Reserve Program (GRP) is a voluntary program that is designed to 

assist landowners and others with restoring and conserving native grasslands, improve pasture, 

and other grazing lands through easements, rental agreements, and restoration agreements. 

Objectives include preserving high quality grasslands, protecting eligible lands that are at high 

risk of conversion, supporting grazing operations, and maintaining or improving plant and 

animal biodiversity. 

Current Status: Program year 2003 was the first year of funding for this program. 

Approximately $833,000 was obligated to 11 applicants. Nine of these funded applications were 

long-term contracts and two were easements. 

Funding Needed: At the end of 2003, the applicant register indicated an unfunded need of about 

$2.9 million on 13 applicants. With continued funding and more information about the program 

in 2004, interest should increase. 

Benefits: By placing land into the GRP, important grass lands will be preserved for long-term 

use for grazing. Biodiversity of plant composition will provide improved wildlife habitat. 

Improved grazing management will reduce erosion and protect water quality. By serving as 

examples of good grassland management, sites will demonstrate improved methods to nonparticipants. 

Sponsors: Natural Resources Conservation Service 

 Farm Service Agency 

Area: Statewide 

Contacts: State Resource Conservationist Jim Caudle (501) 301-3122 

 State Grazing Specialist Dr. Ron Morrow (501) 301-3155 
5-6 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Statewide 

National Cooperative Soil Survey Program 

Natural Resources Conservation Service 

Description: The NCSS program is a national effort to inventory the nation’s soils resources. 

Soil surveys provide information on the distribution of soils, their chemical and physical 

properties and information on soil behavior under various uses. 

Current Status: Modern soil surveys are available for 68 of the 75 counties in Arkansas. 

Digital soil maps are available for 37 counties and will be available for 11 additional counties by 

the end of 2003. Plans are also being developed to make revised and updated soil surveys 

available on CD-ROM. 

Funding Needed: Continued support is needed for national funding to complete the initial soil 

survey and to update older soil surveys in the state. 

Benefits: Soil surveys furnish soil maps and interpretations needed in giving technical 

assistance to farmers and ranchers; in guiding other decisions about soil selection, use, and 

management; and in planning research and disseminating the results of the research. They are 

also used in educational programs about soil use and conservation. 

Sponsors: Natural Resources Conservation Service 

 Arkansas Agriculture Experiment Station 

 U.S. Forest Service 

Area: Statewide 

Contact: State Conservationist Kalven L. Trice (501) 301-3100 
5-7 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Statewide 

National Resources Inventory 

Natural Resources Conservation Service 

Description: The National Resources Inventory (NRI) is a compilation of natural resource 

information on non-Federal land in the United States--about 75 percent of the total land area. 

Conducted by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this inventory captures data on land 

cover and use, soil erosion, prime farmland soils, wetlands, habitat diversity, selected 

conservation practices, and related resource attributes. The data is available by state and by 

Major Land Resource Areas. 

Current Status: The latest available data is from the 1997 NRI. Efforts are underway to 

implement a continuous inventory process, rather than collect data on five-year cycles. 

Funding Needed: Continued support is needed for national funding of the NRI program to 

support the continuous inventory process. 

Benefits: The NRI is used by natural resource manages, policy makers and analysts, 

consultants, the media, other Federal agencies, State governments, universities, environmental, 

commodity, and farm groups, and the public. These constituents use NRI information to 

formulate effective public policies, fashion agricultural and natural resource legislation, and to 

develop State and National conservation programs. 

Sponsors: Natural Resources Conservation Service 

Area: Data is available national, by states and by Major Land Resource Areas. 

Contact: State Conservationist Kalven L. Trice (501) 301-3100 
5-8 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Statewide 

Watershed Protection and Flood Prevention Program 

(Public Law 83-566) 

Natural Resources Conservation Service 

Description: The purpose of the Watershed program (authorized by Public Law 83-566, 16 

U.S. C. 1001-1008) is to cooperate with state and local agencies, tribal governments and other 

federal agencies to prevent damages caused by erosion, floodwater and sediment; to further the 

conservation, development, use and disposal of water; and the conservation and use of land. 

Current Status: Under provisions of the program, Arkansas has 65 projects approved for 

operations. Thirteen of the watershed projects have been closed (have exceeded project life) and 

28 operational projects and one pilot project (Public Law 83-156) are complete. Construction is 

currently in progress on 12 projects. To date, Arkansas has completed construction on 202 

floodwater-retarding structures (15 multiple-purpose structures) and more than 1,214 miles of 

channel improvement at a PL 83-566 cost of more than $142 million and a local cost of more 

than $51 million. An additional $22 million in Federal cost and more than $6 million local cost is 

needed to complete measures in the 12 active projects with construction underway (33 remaining 

structures and conservation measures). 

Arkansas has requested $2,173,000 in financial assistance funds for the program in FY 2004. 

Funds could be allocated to flood control, water quality and groundwater conservation projects. 

The Small Watersheds Program also has provisions to plan future projects. Arkansas currently 

has two new projects in the planning stage and two projects planned and approved some years 

ago that are being re-planned to accommodate changing needs and environmental requirements. 

Arkansas has requested $550,000 in technical assistance funds for FY 2004 for planning 

groundwater conservation and flood control projects 

Funds Needed: Support is needed to continue national funding for the program. Arkansas 

could obligate approximately $2 million in financial assistance annually if funds were available. 

Benefits: Flood protection to cropland and pastureland; protect ground water and water quality. 

Contacts: State Conservationist Kalven L. Trice (501) 301-3100 

 Assistant State Conservationist for 

 Natural Resources Planning David Weeks (501) 301-3139 
5-9 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Statewide 

Small Watershed Rehabilitation Amendments of 2000 

(Public Law 106-472) and the 2002 Rural Security and 

Investment Act 

Natural Resources Conservation Service 

Description: The Small Watershed Rehabilitation Amendments of 2000 (PL-106-472) 

authorizes Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to work with community leaders 

and watershed project sponsors to address public health and safety concerns and environmental 

impacts of aging dams. The cost of planning and implementing solutions to the problems will be 

covered by NRCS at 100 percent and 65 percent for planning and construction, respectively. Inkind contributions can be used for the local share, to the extent sponsors can provide such 

resources. 

Current Status: Arkansas has 202 floodwater retarding structures constructed with USDA 

assistance. Field assessments by the Natural Resources Conservation Service in 2002 showed 21 

of theses small watershed dams need to be modified and upgraded to protect life and property in 

downstream areas. In most cases, homes and businesses were built below these dams after the 

dams were built. State law requires greater margins of safety for withstanding very large storms 

when homes are below dams. The estimated cost to address the problems was over $20 million. 

In early 2001, local sponsors for 10 watershed projects around the state expressed interest in 

assessing the need for rehabilitation of more than 20 structures. Since then, seven sponsors have 

formally requested planning assistance from NRCS. NRCS has received over $900,000 for 

technical assistance for five of these projects. NRCS has agreements with the sponsors whereby 

the sponsors will contract with professional services firms to plan the rehabilitation measures. 

Funds Needed: NRCS requested approximately $337,000 for FY 2004 to complete planning 

efforts for five structures. NRCS also requested $650,000 for FY 2004 to plan rehabilitation for 

the two newest applications. In FY 2005, up to $3,804,000 in financial and technical assistance 

will be needed to complete designs and construct five structures, if planning can be completed in 

time. Additional planning funds may be needed in FY 2005 if more applications are received. 

Project sponsors are seeking funds from outside sources to cover the 35 percent non-federal costshare. 

Federal rehabilitation costs for all known needs will likely exceed $15 million for construction 

and $4 million for planning, design and construction inspection. 

Benefits: Continued protection of public health and safety, environmental benefits, and secure 

water supply for the sponsor. 

Contacts: State Conservationist Kalven L. Trice (501) 301-3100 

 Assistant State Conservationist for 

 Natural Resources Planning David Weeks (501) 301-3139 
5-10 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Statewide 

Soil Survey Geographic Initiative 

Natural Resources Conservation Service 

Description: The Soil Survey Geographic (SSURGO) initiative is a cooperative effort that is 

being led by the Natural Resources Conservation Service to make information in the published 

county soil surveys available in digital format. 

Current Status: SSURGO certified data is available for 25 counties in the state, four additional 

counties will be submitted for certification during 2003. 

Funding Needed: Continued support is needed for national funding of SSURGO to support the 

state’s request for funding. 

Benefits: SSURGO is one of the critical spatial data layers required to fully use the 

functionality of Geographic Information Systems in USDA Field Service Centers. Other Federal 

agencies, state agencies, county governments, universities, and the public also use SSURGO data 

in their GIS 

Sponsors: Natural Resources Conservation Service 

 Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

 University of Arkansas Agronomy Department 

Area: Statewide 

Contact: State Conservationist Kalven L. Trice (501) 301-3100 
5-11 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Statewide 

Wetlands Reserve Program 

Natural Resources Conservation Service 

Description: The Wetlands Reserve Program is a voluntary program to restore wetlands. 

Participating landowners can establish conservation easements of either permanent or 30-year 

duration, or can enter into restoration cost-share agreements where no easement is involved. 

Current Status: Arkansas currently has 265 easements on 126,016 acres of land. Another 45 

easements on 23,041 acres are being processed for closing in 2004. 

Funding Needed: There are currently 414 applicants waiting for funding on approximately 

103,000 acres, with a financial need of about $99 million. 

Benefits: Cropland and Pastureland with high risk for farming due to wetness and seasonal 

flooding are removed from production and the landowner is compensated for this. Large blocks 

of wetlands are restored, primarily to bottomland hardwood and associated wetlands that will 

increase habitat for a variety of wetlands wildlife habitat, including waterfowl, songbirds, 

shorebirds, mammals and invertebrate. The restored sites also increase other wetlands functions 

such as carbon sequestration, flood relief, and water quality. Recreational benefits and 

opportunities are enhanced for landowners and the general public. 

Sponsor: Natural Resources Conservation Service 

Area: Statewide 

Contacts: State Resource Conservationist Jim Caudle (501) 301-3122 

 Biologist Jody Pagan (501) 301-3114 
5-12 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Statewide 

Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program 

Natural Resources Conservation Service 

Description: The Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program provides financial incentives to develop 

habitat for fish and wildlife on private lands. Participants agree to implement a wildlife habitat 

development plan and USDA agrees to provide cost-share assistance for the initial 

implementation of wildlife habitat development practices. 

Current Status: Funded at $450,000 in financial assistance for 2003, plus a carryover of about 

$135,000 available from prior year cancellations. 

Funding Needed: There were 120 unfunded applicants requesting about $718,000. 

Benefits: Much of the land placed into this program is in a use or vegetative cover that may 

provide some wildlife habitat, but not to its best potential. This program offers landowners the 

opportunity to maximize wildlife benefits on their property and provides supporting agencies an 

opportunity to educate and inform these landowners concerning good management practices that 

benefit a variety of wildlife. Wildlife with special needs, such as quail and elk, are targeted with 

a portion of the funds. 

Sponsors: Natural Resources Conservation Service, in partnership with Arkansas Game and 

Fish Commission. 

Area: Statewide 

Contacts: State Resource Conservationist Jim Caudle (501) 301-3122 

 State Biologist (vacant) 
5-13 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Statewide 

Farm Bill Programs 

Environmental Quality Incentives Program - 2003 

District Number of Contracts 

Dollars 

Funded 

Applications 

Received Dollars Requested 

First 223 $5,673,843 2,423 $42,630,293

Second 69 $1,281,421 405 $6,621,739

Third 98 $1,854,148 757 $8,911,350

Fourth 180 $2,534,242 1,021 $18,154,293

Total 570 $11,343,654 4,606 $76,317,675

 

Grassland Reserve Program - 2003 

District Number of Contracts 

Dollars 

Funded 

Applications 

Received Dollars Requested 

First 8 $651,877 17 $943,350

Second 0 $0 2 $836,700

Third 0 $0 0 $0

Fourth 3 $181,680 11 $1,116,973

Total 11 $833,557 30 $2,897,023

 

Wetlands Reserve Program - 2003 

District 

Number of New 

Contracts 

Dollars 

Funded 

Applications 

Pending Dollars Requested 

First 29 $14,593,790 277 $70,028,491

Second 9 $674,818 51 $10,609,338

Third 2 $828,250 7 $898,210

Fourth 11 $10,904,458 77 $27,914,018

Total 51 $27,001,316 412 $109,450,057

 Total acres in program = 122,947+

 

Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program 2003 

District Number of Contacts 

Dollars 

Funded 

Applications 

Received Dollars Requested 

First 47 $286,049 90 $556,477

Second 4 $30,566 12 $79,451

Third 33 $240,738 98 $596,915

Fourth 6 $27,986 10 $70,615

Total 90 $585,339 210 $1,303,458
5-14 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Statewide 

Arkansas Private Wetland and Riparian Zone 

Creation and Restoration Tax Incentive Program 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

Description: The Arkansas Private Wetland and Riparian Zone Creation and Restoration Tax 

Incentive Program allows a tax credit against the tax imposed by the Arkansas Income Tax Act 

for any taxpayer engaged in the development of wetland restoration and riparian zones. 

Current Status: Ongoing 

Benefits: This program aids in protecting wetlands, streams and rivers by providing landowners 

a tax incentive for conservation efforts undertaken in restoring or creating wetlands, and for 

protecting riparian zones. Protecting riparian zones helps improve water quality and prevent 

stream bank erosion. 

Sponsor: Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

Area: Statewide 

Contacts: ASWCC Kenneth Colbert (501) 682-1608 

 ASWCC Ken Brazil (501) 682-3980 

 ASWCC Earl Smith, Jr. (501) 682-3979 
5-15 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Statewide 

Arkansas Wetland Conservation Plan 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

Description: The Arkansas Wetland Conservation Plan is a comprehensive wetland protection 

and planning strategy. It moves from the general statewide wetland issues and policies being 

addressed in the Arkansas Wetland Strategy, to smaller more manageable region and planning 

areas. It includes detailed descriptions of wetlands and identifies specific wetland protection and 

restoration objectives for the respective areas. 

Current Status: On-going 

Funding Needed: 

Benefits: The Conservation Plan provides the state with detailed information on wetland status, 

trends and pressures, and makes recommendations for wetland protection and planning. It 

provides natural resource professionals with detailed information needed to make sound resource 

management decisions and enables them to track wetland impacts in the state. 

Scheduled Completion Date: 

Sponsors: Arkansas Department of Pollution Control and Ecology 

 Arkansas Forestry Commission 

 Arkansas Game and Fish Commission 

 Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission 

 Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

 University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service 

 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (State Wetland Protection Grant Program) 

Area: Statewide 

Contacts: ASWCC Ken Brazil (501) 682-3980 

 ASWCC Rusty McAllister (501) 682-3976 

 AFC Larry Nance (501) 664-2531 

 AGFC Elizabeth Murray (501) 223-6356 

 ANHC Tom Foti (501) 324-9761 

 ASWCC Kenneth Colbert (501) 682-1608 

 UACES Rex Roberg (501) 671-2334 
5-16 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Statewide 

Arkansas Wetland Mitigation Bank 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

Description: The Arkansas Wetland Mitigation Banking program is a publicly owned and 

managed wetland mitigation program that restores or creates wetlands to compensate for future 

permitted wetland impacts. 

Current Status: On-going 

Funding Needed:

Benefits: The mitigation bank allows consolidation of wetland restoration, creation or 

enhancement projects undertaken in anticipation of compensatory mitigation requirements of 

Section 404 permits. The bank provides an opportunity to develop large and/or potentially 

higher-quality wetland sites that may be more ecologically advantageous to the ecosystem 

integrity than small, piecemeal mitigation sites. (Consolidated, created and/or enhanced projects 

draw higher levels of financial resources, planning and scientific expertise not practical for 

small projects.) Mitigation banks typically function to some level in advance of the wetland 

impacts for which they are compensating, thus providing some assurance of successful 

mitigation. 

Scheduled Completion Date: 

Sponsor: Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

Area: Statewide 

Contacts: ASWCC Kenneth Colbert (501) 682-1608 

 ASWCC Ken Brazil (501) 682-3980 

 ASWCC Earl Smith, Jr. (501) 682-3979 
5-17 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Statewide 

Beaver Tailwater Restoration and Habitat 

Improvement 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

Description: The principal objective of the project is to repair damage to the Beaver tailwaters 

of the White River by building a floodwater release from Beaver Lake. The project, once 

completed, will restore the river to its position of importance as an area for prime trout fishery. 

The comprehensive program addresses restoration of the streamside environment, stream 

morphology and habitat improvement. 

Current Status: Ongoing. An interim report was published in December 1994. Federal 

$53,216; Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission $14,811; Arkansas Game and Fish 

Commission $32,000; and TVA $10,000. 

Funds Needed: $0 additional

Benefits: Restoration of the river and the river environment to a quality cold-water fishery will 

sustain an increased trout population and replenish a permanent population by natural spawn. 

Scheduled Completion Date: Ongoing

Sponsors: Arkansas Game and Fish Commission 

 Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

Contact: Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation 

 Commission Team Leader Ron Redman (501) 682-3915 
5-18 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Statewide 

Grants to Districts Program 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

Description: This program documents a cooperative undertaking between the Arkansas Soil 

and Water Conservation Commission (ASWCC) and the Natural Resources Conservation 

Service (NRCS) to establish and maintain the Arkansas Conservation Grants to Districts 

(ACGD) Program. The grant program is managed and operated under a management team 

consisting of the executive director of the Commission and the State Conservationist of the 

NRCS, or their designee(s). The ACGD Program is designed to provide grants to conservation 

districts within Arkansas so they may carry out the identified priority resource conservation 

opportunities in their respective districts. The ACGD Program is a collaborative effort of the 

ASWCC and NRCS that enhances and supports district initiatives, which provide mutual 

benefits for conservation in Arkansas. 

Current Status: It is anticipated that the agreement will be renewed for the NRCS in FY 2003 

contingent upon available funds and both parties to the agreement having sufficient resources to 

carry out their responsibilities under the agreement. Also, it is the intent of the NRCS to provide 

$250,000 in federal matching funds for FY 2003. 

Funding Needed: ASWCC provided $250,000 in FY 1999, FY 2000, FY 2001 and FY 2002. 

The NRCS provided $250,000 in FY 1999, FY 2000, FY 2001 and FY 2002. Districts are 

required to provide a local match or $1 for every $2 received. 

Benefits: This program provides leadership in resource conservation, allows issues to be 

identified and addressed at the lowest level, maintains and improves grass-roots delivery 

systems, and helps conserve and enhance natural resources in Arkansas. 

Sponsors: Natural Resources Conservation Service 

 Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

Area: Statewide 

Contacts: Assistant State Conservationist for 

 Strategic Planning Doris Washington (501) 301-3162 

 ASWCC Chief for Conservations Adrian Baber (501) 682-3967 
5-19 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Statewide 

Nonpoint Source Pollution Grant Program 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

Description: Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission (ASWCC) will prepare, 

submit and process grant application work plans and associated documentation for projects. 

Additionally, ASWCC will hold demonstrations of the Best Management Practices (BMPs) used 

to reduce nonpoint source pollution from agricultural, forestry or other resource activities. 

Current Status: Ongoing 

Funding Needed: $4.5 million

Benefits: The Grant funds provide for evaluation, implementation and demonstration of methods 

of reducing nonpoint source pollution. The funds help develop improved land stewardship 

methods that reduce water pollution and aid in dissemination of this information to farmers and 

other land resource managers. 

Sponsors: Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, CWA Section 319 Program 

Area: Statewide 

Contacts: ASWCC Tony Ramick (501) 682-3914 
5-20 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Statewide 

Nonpoint Source Projects Currently Being Funded 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

Project 99-700 - Nutrient Management Education: Training for livestock and poultry 

producers concerning water quality management. 

Current Status: Completed Federal Funding: $259,087 

Scheduled Completion Date: 06-30-03 Non-Federal Funding: $195,452 

Project 01-300 – Forestry BMP Effectiveness: This project will determine how effective 

Arkansas’ current silviculture BMPs are at reducing non-point source pollution. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $172,241 

Scheduled Completion Date: 12-31-06 Non-Federal Funding: $138,456 

Project 01-1000 – Nonpoint Source Pollution Public Awareness: Education, awareness and 

the strategies utilized to control, reduce, or abate Nonpoint source pollution. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $196,050 

Scheduled Completion Date: 06-30-04 Non-Federal Funding: $42,687 

Project 03-120 – GIS Database Development and Watershed Modeling in Arkansas 

Priority Watersheds: Compile GIS data and develop SWAT hydrologic models for nine 

priority watersheds to utilize as a tool to focus NPS funding needs. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $85,184 

Scheduled Completion Date: 09-30-04 Non-Federal Funding: $33,450 

Project 03-700 – Excess Nutrient Management: 1) To develop and implement a statewide 

registration program for poultry operations for targeting of other grant activities. 2) To develop 

and implement a training and certification program for nutrient management planners to ensure 

those planners have the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to properly plan the use of 

nutrients on the land. 3) To develop and implement a training and certification program for 

nutrient applicators to ensure that they have the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to 

properly apply nutrients to the land. 

Current Status: Active Federal Funding: $1,500,000

Scheduled Completion Date: 12-31-07 Non-Federal Funding: $1,246,922
5-21 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Statewide 

Nonriparian Permitting 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

Description: Arkansas has adopted a riparian system of water rights, based on the reasonableuse theory. Rights are attached to lands bordering a natural stream or lake. By issuing nonriparian permits, the Commission allows nonriparians to acquire water rights on land not 

adjacent to a stream or watercourse. 

Current Status: Ongoing 

Benefits: Permit holders are granted rights to excess surface water as long as the water is 

intended for a reasonable and beneficial use and the use will not cause a significant, adverse 

environmental impact. 

Sponsor: Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

Area: Statewide 

Contacts: ASWCC Ken Brazil (501) 682-3980 

 ASWCC Steve Loop (501) 682-3959 
5-22 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Statewide 

Quality Assurance/Quality Control 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

Description: The Quality Assurance/Quality Control program ensures scientific data generated 

by or for the Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission (ASWCC). It is of sufficient or 

greater quality needed to withstand scientific and legal challenge. All data produced by or for the 

ASWCC will be of known and acceptable precision, accuracy, representation, completeness and 

comparability. The Quality Assurance officer reviews Quality Assurance project plans and 

projects, Quality Assurance audits, and annual Quality Assurance reporting. 

Current Status: Ongoing 

Funding Needed: 

Benefits: Quality Assurance/Quality Control ensures data collection and analysis. It is done to a 

standard of performance and quality so that the results will be defensible. 

Sponsors: Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 

Area: Statewide 

Contacts: Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation 

 Commission Sue Filat-Alami (501) 682-3909 
5-23 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Statewide 

Tax Incentives - Water Resource Conservation and 

Development Incentives Act 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

Description: This program encourages water users to invest in constructing impoundments that use 

available surface water and reduce ground water dependence; converting from ground water to surface 

water use; and leveling land to reduce agricultural irrigation water use. Tax credits began in 1996, may 

pass through partnerships, corporations, etc., and are available for impoundments, conversion and 

leveling. 

Impoundments: Credits will be issued for constructing impoundments of at least 20 acre-feet for 

water storage to primarily be used in agricultural irrigation or industrial processes. A tax credit of 50 

percent of the project's cost, incurred in construction, installation or restoration, is available. The 

maximum credit in one taxable year is the lesser of the taxpayer's income tax due or $9,000. Unused 

credit may be carried over for a maximum of nine years. 

Conversion: For the conversion from ground water use to surface water use outside a critical 

groundwater area, an income tax credit of ten percent of the project cost is available. The maximum credit 

in one year is the lesser of the taxpayer’s income tax due or $9,000. Unused credit may be carried over for 

two years. 

 For the conversion from ground water use to surface water use within a critical groundwater area, an 

income tax credit of 50 percent of the project cost is available. The maximum credit in one year is the 

lesser of the taxpayer’s income tax due or $9,000 for agricultural and recreational uses and $200,000 for 

industrial and commercial uses. Unused credit may be carried over for a maximum of two years by 

agricultural and recreational users and for four years for industrial and commercial users. 

Leveling: For agricultural land leveling projects that conserve irrigation water, an income tax credit of ten 

percent of the project's cost is available. The maximum credit in one year is the lesser of the taxpayer's 

income tax due or $9,000. Unused credit may be carried over for a maximum of two years.

 An application must be submitted to Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission and 

approved before a taxpayer may claim credits. All projects must be maintained for a minimum of ten 

years following issuance of the Certificate of Completion, or benefits will be subject to an application fee 

of three percent of the total approved tax credit. The minimum fee is $100; the maximum fee is $1,500. 

 Taxpayers may be eligible for a tax deduction in an amount equal to the difference between the 

project cost and the credit used. 

Current Status: Active 

Benefits: Tax credits for water user conservation projects 

Sponsor: Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

Contacts: ASWCC Adrian Baber (501) 682-3967 

 ASWCC Carolyn Manning (501) 682-3972 

 ASWCC Earl Smith, Jr. (501) 682-3979 
5-24 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Statewide 

Technical Review Committee 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

Description: The Technical Review Committee comprises representatives from 13 state 

agencies. The committee provides an efficient and effective method for interagency coordination 

and review of environmental issues to determine the State's position on those issues. The 

committee is chaired by the Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission. The State 

Clearinghouse distributes all its materials and response forms. 

Current Status: Ongoing 

Benefits: Through the technical review process, the State uses the expertise of professionals 

from several disciplines to assess environmental issues and provide the State with a mechanism 

for voicing its concerns regarding federal actions. 

Sponsors: Arkansas Department of Health, Dr. Fay Boozman, director 

 Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism, Richard Davies, executive director 

 Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality, Marcus Devine, director 

 Arkansas Forestry Commission, John Shannon, state forester 

 Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, Hugh Durham, director 

 Arkansas Geological Commission, Bill Bush, state geologist 

 Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department, Dan Flowers, director 

 Arkansas Historic Preservation Program, Ken Grunewald, director 

 Arkansas Economic Development Commission, Jim Pickens, executive director 

 Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission, Karen Smith, executive director 

 Arkansas Natural and Scenic Rivers Commission, Jane Jones-Schulz, director 

 Arkansas Soil & Water Conservation Commission, Randy Young, executive director 

(chairman) 

 Arkansas Waterways Commission, Keith Garrison, executive director 

 State Clearinghouse, Tracy Copeland, manager 

 State Lands Office, Donnie Williams, commissioner 

Area: Statewide 

Contacts: ASWCC Kenneth Colbert (501) 682-1608 

 ASWCC Ken Brazil (501) 682-3980 
5-25 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Statewide 

Arkansas Association of Conservation Districts 

Contributions 

District Local State Other Total

 

First Congressional District 312,469 1,132,238 951,006 2,395,713

Second Congressional District 116,129 344,163 110,356 570,648

Third Congressional District 143,210 886,150 248,700 1,278,060

Fourth Congressional District 260,522 1,292,120 1,478,694 3,031,336 

Statewide Totals $832,330 $3,654,671 $2,788,756 $7,275,757
Arkansas

Conservation

Partnership

Directories
Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Directories 

Table of Contents 

 Page

The Arkansas Conservation Partnership Leadership Directory A-1 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission A-2 

Arkansas Association of Conservation Districts, Officers and Area Presidents A-3 

Arkansas Association of Conservation Districts, Chairpersons A-4 

Arkansas Resource Conservation and Development Councils, Inc. A-8 

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service A-10 
A-1 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Directories 

As of January 1, 2004 

The Arkansas Conservation Partnership Leadership 

Name Affiliation Addresses Phone 

Dr. Ivory Lyles, 

Chair 

University of Arkansas, 

Cooperative Extension 

Service 

2301 S. University Ave. 

Little Rock, AR 72201 

ilyles@uaex.educ 

(501) 671-2001 

J. Randy Young Arkansas Soil and Water 

Conservation Commission 

101 E. Capitol Ave. Suite 

350 

Little Rock, AR 72201 

randy.young@mail.state.ar.us 

(501) 682-3986 

Debbie Moreland Arkansas Association of 

Conservation Districts 

20311 Lake Vista 

Roland, AR 72135 

(501) 868-5286 

Sharon 

Underwood 

Arkansas Association of 

Conservation Districts 

Employees 

Route 1, Box 161 

Danville, AR 72933 

Sharon.underwood@ar.usda.gov 

(479) 495-2441 

Dr. Jacqueline 

McCray 

University of Arkansas, 

Pine Bluff 

P.O. Box 4990 

Pine Bluff, AR 71611 

mccrayj@uapb.edu 

(870) 575-8529 

Kalven L. Trice Natural Resources 

Conservation Service 

Rm. 3416 Fed. Bldg. 

700 W. Capitol Ave. 

Little Rock, AR 72201 

kalven.trice@ar.usda.gov 

(501) 301-3100 

Wes Fowler Arkansas Association of 

Resource Conservation and 

Development Councils 

P.O. Box 37 

Huntsville, AR 72740 

madisonclerk@arcounties.com 

(479) 738-6721 

(479) 738-2735 

John Shannon Arkansas Forestry 

Commission 

3821 W. Roosevelt Road 

Little Rock, AR 72204 

John.Shannon@mail.state.ar.us 

(501) 296-1940 
A-2 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Directories 

As of January 1, 2004 

Arkansas Soil and Water Conservation Commission 

101 E. Capitol Avenue, Suite 350, Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 

Phone: (501) 682-1611 Fax: (501) 682-3991 

E-mail: aswcc@aswcc.state.ar.us

Commissioners Term Address Phone Numbers / Email 

Alec Farmer 2005 Post Office Box 19282 Home: (870) 935-0309

Chairman Jonesboro, AR 72402 Office: (870) 935-0550

 Fax: (870) 935-8713

 Afarmer@insolwwb.net

 

Robert Newell 2006 1 Holmes St., Newport, AR 72112 Home: (870) 523-3710

Vice-Chairman 

 

Neal Anderson 2004 #2 Crickett Lane, Lonoke, AR 72086 Home: (501) 676-6228 

 Office: (501) 676-2716

 Fax: (501) 676-2718

 ifanderson@aol.com

 

Dewey Hatcher 2005 Route 1 - Box 372, Waldron, AR 72958 Home: (501) 637-2562

 Fax: (501) 637-2562

 hatcher@ipa.net

 

Ann Cash 2007 Drawer 171, McGehee, AR 71654 Home: (870) 222-6014

 Office: (870) 222-6190

 Fax: (870) 222-3629

 anncash@seark.net

 

Corbet Lamkin 2008 160 Ouachita 338, Chidester, AR 71726 Home: (870) 685-2896

 Office: (870) 235-4006

 Fax: (870) 235-5110

 cjlamkin@saumag.edu

David Feilke 2009 905 West 14th Street Stuttgart, AR 72160 Home: (870) 673-1283

Office: (870) 673-4720

cjlamkin@saumag.edu

J. Randy Young, P. E. Home: (501) 331-4844

Executive Director Office: (501) 682-3986

 randy.young@mail.state.ar.us

Jonathan R. Sweeney, P. E. Home: (501) 562-2828

Deputy Director / Chief Engineer Office: (501) 682-3962

jon.sweeney@mail.state.ar.us
A-3 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Directories 

As of January 1, 2004 

Arkansas Association of Conservation Districts 

Officers and Area Presidents 

Name Title Address Telephone / Fax 

Debbie Moreland President 20331 Lake Vista 

Roland, AR 72135 

(501) 868-5286 

(501) 868-5294

Sonny Jones First Vice President 135 Gatesway Drive 

Monticello, AR 71655 

(870) 367-2012

James Mitchell Second Vice President PO Box 1080 

 Danville, AR 72833-1080 

(479) 495-2427

Roy Mahler Secretary/Treasurer Route 2 - Box 130 

Elkins, AR 72727 

(501) 643-3385 

(501) 738-6695

Bill Rainwater Immediate Past 

President 

P.O. Box 2245 

 Jonesboro, AR 72401 

(870) 935-1624 

(870) 935-7011

Rocky Harrell Central Area President 13 Rocky Acres 

 Mayflower, AR 72106 

(501) 470-0462

Ray Mosley East Central Area 

President 

PO Box 115 

Alicia, AR 72410 

(870) 886-5117

Richard Simmons Northeast Area 

President 

Route 3 

Hector, AR 72461 

(870) 522-3204 

Cindy Thornberry Northwest Area 

President 

1036 Madison 

Witter AR 72776 

(479) 677-2134

Andrew Wargo Southeast Area 

President 

Rt. 1, Box 204C 

Watson AR 71674 

(870) 664-3470

Troy Odom Southwest Area 

President 

P.O. Box 1056 

Lewisville, AR 71845 

(870) 234-5223

Paul Whittington West Central Area 

President 

4309 Old Forest Grove 

Charleston AR 72933 

(479) 667-8600

Sharon 

Underwood 

AACDE President Route 1, Box 161 

Danville, AR 72833 

(479) 495-2441 

Julie Radell Executive Assistant 101 E. Capitol Ave., Ste. 350, 

Little Rock, AR 72201 

(501) 682-2915

(501) 682-3991

Randy Young Executive Secretary 101 E. Capitol Ave., Ste. 350, 

Little Rock, AR 72201 

(501) 682-3986

(501) 682-3991
A-4 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Directories 

As of January 1, 2004 

Arkansas Association of Conservation Districts 

Chairpersons 

District Chairperson Home Address Phone 

Arkansas County CD Johnny Holzhauer P. O. Box 26, Gillett, AR 

72055-0026 

(870) 548-2604

Ashley County CD Eddie Scherm P. O. Box 159, Portland, AR 

71663-0159 

(870) 737-2231

Baxter County CD James Bryant 115 CR 893, Mountain Home, 

AR 72653 

(870) 425-8289

Benton County CD Ronnie McGhee 898 Lester, Decatur, AR 72722 (501) 752-3943

Boone County CD James Widner 10662 Prosperity Lane, 

Harrison, AR 72601 

(870) 741-2307

Buffalo CD (Searcy 

County) 

Mark Halsted HC 89 - Box 126, Marshall, 

AR 72650 

(870) 448-5973

Calhoun County CD Robert Moore Route 1 - Box 106, Hampton, 

AR 71744 

(870) 798-2316

Carroll County CD Kenneth Clark 556 CR 742, Berryville, AR 

72616 

(870) 423-3263

Chicot County CD Herman Berkemeyer HC 71 - Box 321, Lake 

Village, AR 71653 

(870) 265-2918

Clark County CD Robert Earl Fowler 1702 Cordova Circle, 

Arkadelphia, AR 71923 

(870) 245-3788

Clay CD Richard Simmons Route 3, Rector, AR 72461 (870) 522-3204

Cleburne County CD Pat McGary 144 Sexton Creek Rd. North, 

Heber Springs, AR 72543 

(501) 362-5245

Cleveland County CD Marvin Hall Route 1 - Box 76, New 

Edinburg, AR 71660 

(870) 348-5399

Columbia County CD Dr. Mark Bryan 640 Columbia 405, Magnolia, 

AR 71753 

(870) 234-0100

Conway County CD Billy Deaver 101 Moore St., Plumerville, 

AR 72127 

(501) 354-5567

Cossatot CD (Sevier 

County) 

Don Stemple Route 3, Box 122, Gillham, 

AR 71841 

(870) 386-2558

Craighead CD Bill Adams 1303 Holly St., Jonesboro, AR 

72401 

(870) 932-8440

Crawford County CD Bobby Neidecker 5114 Parks Rd., Van Buren, 

AR 72956 

(501) 474-3215

Crittenden CD Jimmy Sharp P. O. Box 316, Crawfordsville, 

AR 72327-0316 

(870) 823-5998

Crooked Creek SWCD 

(Marion County) 

James Hall Box 237, Yellville, AR 72687 (870) 449-6713

Cross County CD Judy Hunt Route 2 - Box 169-5, Wynne, (870) 238-7293
A-5 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Directories 

As of January 1, 2004 

AR 72396 

Dallas County SWCD James Taylor P. O. Box 172, Sparkman, AR 

71763-0172 

(870) 678-2257

Desha County CD William Teeter Route 1 - Box 166, Tillar, AR 

71670 

(870) 392-2540

Drew County CD Gary Shrum 367 E. Bolling, Monticello, AR 

71655 

(870) 367-8400

Faulkner County CD Rocky Harrell 13 Rocky Acres, Mayflower, 

AR 72106 

(501) 470-0462

Franklin County SWCD Paul King P. O. Box 28, Charleston, AR 

72933-0028 

(501) 965-2448

Fulton County CD Bruce Dietsche P.O. Box 304, Hardy, AR 

72542 

(870) 856-2321

Garland County CD Gene Parker 2886 Hwy. 290, Hot Springs, 

AR 71913 

(501) 262-1384

Grant County CD Raymond Fitzgerald Route 1 - Box 188-1, Sheridan, 

AR 72150 

(870) 942-4264

Greene County CD Ronald Pique Sr. 1798 Greene 901 Rd, 

Paragould, AR 72450 

(870) 239-8162

Hempstead County 

SWCD 

Bobby Webb 259 County Rd. 48, 

Washington, AR 71862 

(870) 983-2342

Hot Spring County CD William O'Neal Route 8 - Box 387, Malvern, 

AR 72104 

(501) 337-4724

Independence County 

CD 

Paul Rhodes 101 Big Pine, Batesville, AR 

72501 

(870) 793-7281

Izard County CD Larry Arnold HC 82, Box 120, Wiseman, 

AR 72587 

(870) 322-7191

Jackson County SWCD Lewis Jones 2270 Hwy. 14 West, Newport, 

AR 72112 

(870) 523-5088

Jefferson County CD Charles Chadick 206 Park Place, Pine Bluff, AR 

71601 

(870) 536-4481

Johnson County CD Charles Plugge Box 190, Hartman, AR 72840 (501) 497-1453

L'Aigle Creek CD 

(Bradley County) 

John McClellan Cleveland County Rd. 303, 

New Edinburg, AR 71660 

(870) 226-5078

Lafayette CD Lile Kitchens 155 LAF 42, Lewisville, AR 

71845 

(870) 921-4990

Lawrence County CD David Foley P.O. Box 53, Powhatan, AR 

72458 

(870) 878-6063

Lee County CD John Dozier PO Box 278, Moro, AR 72368 (870) 295-5941

Lincoln County CD L. E. Branson, Jr. Route 1 - Box 502, Dumas, AR 

71639 

(870) 263-4655

Little River County CD Dwayne Raper 191 W. Main, Ashdown, AR 

71822 

(870) 898-5675

Logan County CD James Hawkins 1480 S. Brooklyn Rd., Ratcliff, (501) 635-8133
A-6 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Directories 

As of January 1, 2004 

AR 72951 

Lonoke County CD Neal Anderson #2 Crickett Lane, Lonoke, AR 

72086 

(501) 676-6228

Madison County SWCD Roy Mahler 3982 Hwy. 295, Elkins, AR 

72727 

(501) 643-3385

Miller County CD Nedra Turney 6511 Harris Lane, Texarkana, 

AR 71854 

(870) 773-4494

Mine Creek SWCD 

(Howard County) 

J.F. Bell 217 Wild Rose Lane, Mineral 

Springs, AR 71851 

(870) 287-4498

Mississippi County CD Gerald Donner 3003 W CR 442, Manila, AR 

72442 

(870) 561-4784

Monroe County CD Wayne Beadles Route 1 - Box 235, Brinkley, 

AR 72021 

(870) 734-1790

Montgomery County CD Mearl Robins P. O. Box 236, Mount Ida, AR 

71957-0236 

(870) 867-2778

Nevada County CD Gaylon Waters P.O. Box 12, Willisville, AR 

71864 

(870) 871-2352

Newton County SWCD Frank Breedlove HCR 31 - Box 420, Deer, AR 

72628 

(870) 446-2140

Ouachita CD Corbet Lamkin 160 Ouachita 338, Chidester, 

AR 71726 

(870) 685-2896

Perry County CD Billy Growns 473 Hwy. 155 S., Perryville, 

AR 72126 

(501) 432-5371

Phillips County CD A. Y. "Al" Gordon 166 Oakland Ave., Helena, AR 

72342 

(870) 338-7736

Pike County CD Conrad Cox Route 4 - Box 133A, 

Nashville, AR 71852 

(870) 285-3419

Poinsett CD Charles Glover P. O. Box 280, Tyronza, AR 

72386-0280 

(870) 487-2523

Pope County CD John Berkemeyer 8918 SR 105 South, Atkins, 

AR 72823 

(501) 641-2363

Poteau River CD (Scott 

County) 

Larry Free RR1 Box 294, Waldron, AR 

72958 

(501) 637-2961

Prairie County CD Don Vaught P. O. Box 879, Hazen, AR 

72064 

(870) 255-4404

Pulaski CD Mary Ratcliffe P. O. Box 146, Sweet Home, 

AR 72164-0146 

(501) 490-0655

Randolph County CD Al DeClerk 3914 Engleberg Rd., 

Pocahontas, AR 72455 

(870) 892-3712

Rich Mountain CD (Polk 

County) 

Ed Stevenson 1301 Texas St., Mena, AR 

71953 

(501) 394-4921

Saline County CD Dr. Richard Simmons 716 W. South St., Benton, AR 

72015 

(501) 778-9266

Sebastian County CD W. D. Looper 4320 Nickletown Rd., (501) 996-4447
A-7 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Directories 

As of January 1, 2004 

Huntington, AR 72940 

Sharp County CD Harold Hirsch P. O. Box 250, Cherokee 

Village, AR 72525-0250 

(870) 257-2528

St. Francis County CD John Brice Fletcher, 

II 

1876 Montrose Dr., Forrest 

City, AR 72335 

(870) 633-3443

Stone County CD Roy Hayden P. O. Box 995, Mountain 

View, AR 72560-0995 

(870) 585-2534

Union County CD J. K. (Ken) Rudder, 

Jr. 

320 Union 757, El Dorado, AR 

71730 

(870) 862-1684

Van Buren County 

SWCD 

Dyke Johnson P. O. Box 266, Clinton, AR 

72031-0266 

(501) 745-2023

Washington County 

SWCD 

Alan Reed 10639 N. Wedinton Blacktop, 

Prairie Grove, AR 72753-1035 

(501) 846-3152

White County CD Elvis L. Vaughn 455 Hwy. 36 E., Searcy, AR 

72143 

(501) 742-3419

Woodruff County 

SWCD 

W. P. Daniel, Jr. 619 N. 3rd St., Augusta, AR 

72006 

(870) 347-5462

Yell County CD James Mitchell P. O. Box 1080, Danville, AR 

72833-1080 

(501) 495-2427

CD = Conservation District 

SWCD = Soil and Water Conservation District
A-8 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Directories 

As of January 1, 2004 

Arkansas Association of Resource Conservation and 

Development Councils 

Presidents and Coordinators 

County Judge Wes Fowler, State President Debbie Moreland, Secretary/Treasurer 

P.O. Box 37 20311 Lake Vista 

Huntsville, AR 72740 Roland, AR 72135 

Phone: (479) 738-6721 (W) 

(479) 738-2695 (H) 

Phone: (501) 868-5286 (H) / (501) 868-5294 (O)

Fax: (479) 738-2735 Fax: (501) 868-5294 (call first) 

 

Arkansas River Valley RC&D Area 

Fred Stringer, Coordinator W. D. Looper, Council President 

3913 Brooken Hill Dr., Suite 500 4320 Nickletown 

Fort Smith, AR 72908-9289 Greenwood, AR 72936 

Phone: (479) 646-2569 x 139 Phone: (501) 996-4447 

Fax: (479) 646-2691 

 

Central Arkansas RC&D Area 

Cindy Neal, Coordinator Judge Tom Catlett, Council President 

Rm 221, Federal Bldg. 1111 Main Street 123 Madison 

Conway, AR 72032-5440 Clarendon, AR 72021 

Phone: (501) 327-6509x120/505-8395 Phone: (870) 747-5411 office, 747-5294 home 

Fax: (501) 329-7434/505-8325 

 

East Arkansas RC&D Area 

Travis Boyd, Coordinator LeRoy Dangeau, Council President 

2703 Paula Drive 1105 North Killough 

Jonesboro, AR 72404-8017 Wynne, AR 72306 

Phone: (870) 972-4725 Phone: (870) 238-5750 

Fax: (870) 972-4715 

 

Northwest Arkansas RC&D Area 

Richard Drewry, Coordinator County Judge Wes Fowler, Council President 

402 N. Walnut, Suite 109 P.O. Box 37 

Harrison, AR 72601-3621 Huntsville, AR 72740 

Phone: (870) 741-7475 x 117 Phone: (479) 738-6721 work; 738-2695 home 

Fax: (870) 741-9332 Fax: (479) 738-2735 

Email: W564107@cswnet.com
A-9 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Directories 

As of January 1, 2004 

Ozark Foothills RC&D Area 

Lori Barker, Coordinator Eddie Cooper, Council President 

112 Camp Tahkodah Road P.O. Box 327. 

Batesville, AR 72(501) 9069 Melbourne, AR 72556 

Phone: (870) 251-4204 

Fax: (870) 251-3750 

 

Southeast Arkansas RC&D Area 

Stephanie Priest, Coordinator James Jordon, Council President 

419 W. Gaines, Suite 7 391 Crestwood 

Monticello, AR 71655 Monticello, AR 71655-0518 

Phone: (870) 367-8400 x 133 Phone: (870) 367-6669 

Fax: (870) 367-5539 

 

Southwest Arkansas RC&D Area 

Charlie Williams, Coordinator Otto Cowling, State Vice President, 

Council President 

217 South Jefferson, Suite 105 P.O. Box 204 

El Dorado, AR 71730-5900 Foreman, AR 71836 

Phone: (870) 863-5678 or 5679 Phone: (870) 542-7759 

Fax: (870) 863-7483 
A-10 

Arkansas Conservation Partnership 

Conservation Activities 2003 Report 

Directories 

As of January 1, 2004 

Natural Resources Conservation Service 

Room 3416, Federal Building, 700 West Capitol Avenue 

Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 

Phone: (501) 301-3100 Fax: (501) 301-3194 

www.ar.nrcs.usda.gov

 

Kalven L. Trice State Conservationist (501) 301-3100 

Anderson Neal, Jr. Assistant State Conservationist for Operations (501) 301-3131 

(Vacant) MLRA Leader/State Soil Scientist (501) 301-3116 

David Weeks Assistant State Conservationist for Natural 

Resources Planning 

(501) 301-3139 

Doris Washington Assistant State Conservationist for Strategic 

Planning 

(501) 301-3162 

Jim Caudle State Resource Conservationist (501) 301-3122 

Joe Manuel State Administrative Officer (501) 301-3154 

Sonja Coderre State Public Affairs Specialist and State Freedom 

of Information Act/Privacy Act Officer 

(501) 301-3133 

Tony Stevenson State Conservation Engineer (501) 301-3141 

Burthel Thomas Assistant State Conservationist for Field 

Operations, Northwest 

(501) 646-8300 

(Vacant) Assistant State Conservationist for Field 

Operations, Northeast 

(870) 972-4714 

Ray Linder Assistant State Conservationist for Field 

Operations, South 

(870) 367-8400