Success Spotlight: Magees Creek, MS
Implementing agricultural best management practices reduces fecal coliform bacteria in Magees Creek
EPA's Clean Water Act Section 319 Program provides funding for restoration of nonpoint source-impaired water bodies. This week's success spotlight shines on Magees Creek, Mississippi.
The Magees Creek watershed covers approximately 143,000 acres in southern Mississippi. Elevated levels of fecal coliform bacteria from agricultural runoff, wildlife and other sources had exceeded Mississippi's Magees Creek pathogen water quality standards for its recreational designated use. As a result, the state added Magees Creek to its 1998 list of impaired waters for pathogens. With the support of nonpoint source grant funding and matching funds from partner agencies, the state and its project partners implemented agricultural best management practices on more than 3,355 acres in the watershed, that include planting pasture and hayland, planting trees, and installing fencing between livestock and the creek. Water quality has improved and Mississippi has removed portions of Magees Creek from the state's list of impaired waters in 2012. Click here for more information.
Source: US EPA
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