Team members who are more comfortable sampling water resource conditions and developing engineering solutions to problems spend much of their time meeting with potential partners, making presentations to local groups, providing information to reporters, organizing stream cleanups, and otherwise working to increase public awareness of watershed conditions and resource needs. Their needs and priorities must be considered in identifying, assessing, and solving problems. Successful cooperative efforts are inclusive. It helps to offer incentives to encourage local participation. Cost-sharing assistance clearly will make a difference in the number of landowners willing to change their operation.
Local ownership is critical.
One or two local leaders dedicated to the success of the project can accomplish more than an army of technical advisors. Results River Action Team efforts to build partnerships already are paying off. Team members also spearheaded a variety of communications activities designed to educate people about water quality and involve them in solving pollution problems. The project reduced sedimentation in a section of the Hiwassee River that harbors a variety of rare mussel species. Trout Unlimited volunteers are continuing to work with the TVA team to monitor sedimentation and siltation in the Hiwassee watershed.