These floods have eroded stream banks and encroached upon agricultural activities. The Council is currently working with land owners along Birch Creek and is facilitating discussions with agency experts to help them better understand the dynamics of their watershed. A goal of this project is to help landowners protect their properties while restoring watershed health. The value of bioengineering techniques for stream stabilization is a main focus of this discussion. This highly innovative approach will provide local residents with early input to the process and a voice in developing management options.
Public education remains a key to building partnerships.
The Council has worked with the local media to promote watershed health. Council members and the watershed coordinator have appeared on local radio programs describing the Council's mission and activities. Local newspapers are very supportive and run regular articles on the Council's projects. The Council is currently sponsoring a watershed logo design contest for local schools. As part of this effort, Council members and agency representatives have volunteered to discuss watershed health in area classrooms.