Streambank stabilization has been a key component in the reduction of sediment entering our water supply reservoirs. The coordination between the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) (Watershed Management Section), the Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) (Division of Conservation), and the Kansas Water Office (KWO) have utilized the strengths, responsibilities, and resources of each agency to accomplish streambank protection work. In order to complete projects in the most efficient and cost effective manner, the inter-agency team operates from a pooled funding system. Funds available through agency programs for streambank protection projects are targeted to priority areas and administered by this group. The Kansas Forest Service (KFS), Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism (KDWPT), local conservation districts (CD), and local Watershed Restoration and Protection Strategy (WRAPS) groups continue to be essential to the success of this process.
Streambank stabilization efforts are currently being concentrated in three high priority watersheds, the Big Blue and Little Blue Rivers above Tuttle Creek Lake, the Delaware River above Perry Lake, and the Cottonwood and Neosho Rivers above John Redmond Reservoir. Past efforts have included implementation projects across the state, including within the Smoky Hill-Saline watershed. It is estimated the streambank stabilization projects implemented to date will prevent just over 880,000 tons of sediment from entering the associated downstream reservoirs each year.
The Story Map to the left helps to explain the efforts and projects within the State of Kansas through an interactive map. It highlights key facts and components of streambank stabilization projects, including an explanation of the approach and process developed by the state inter-agency streambank team.
To learn more please scroll through the Story Map: http://arcg.is/2w0tYbM
A general timeline for project implementation is included below. Implementation of sites within the priority watersheds continue as part of the inter-agency team’s ongoing implementation schedule.
In order to complete projects in the most efficient and cost effective manner, the group has adopted a “pooled funding” concept. Funds available through agency programs for streambank stabilization projects are targeted to priority areas and administered by this group. The KFS, KDWPT, local conservation districts, and local WRAPS groups are also important to the success of this process.
For use on mobile devices, click here.
Lower Arkansas River Basin, October 2012
Melvern Reservoir Watershed, March 2017
Milford Reservoir Watershed, March 2017
Perry Reservoir Watershed, May 2017
Pomona Reservoir Watershed, July 2011
South Fork Big Nemaha River Watershed, March 2011
Toronto Reservoir Watershed, July 2011