This laboratory was formed in 1966 to help scientists study how watershed systems work. Fields, wooded areas, swamps and creeks all play a part in how the water moves and how clean it is when it reaches the river or lake.
Scientists here study how fertilizers, pesticides and even eroded soil move through the watershed.
Once scientists understand how a watershed works, they can create management programs to help landowners keep the systems working efficiently, like nature designed it. That can help farmers continue to produce food and fiber crops with as little effect on the environment as possible.