The latest round of heavy rain across east central Kansas this week came as the Kansas Water Office has announced a new phase of streambank stabilization projects to help reduce sedimentation at four federal reservoirs — John Redmond, Fall River, Kanopolis and Tuttle Creek — as part of the Kansas Reservoir Protection Initiative.
Acting Director Earl Lewis, a guest on KVOE’s 8:05 am newscast Tuesday, says the first phase was well-received with more potential projects submitted than could be funded. He encouraged residents to step forward.
John Redmond has lost 40 percent of its water supply storage, even with a successful dredging project two years ago, while Fall River has lost 35 percent of its storage capacity. Lewis says the lakes provide help with flood control, but they also help with water supply when drought develops.
Lands located in sub-watershed areas, including Lyon, Coffey and Greenwood, are eligible for assistance. Lewis says there are several types of projects state officials are looking for as this initiative continues.
Landowners are encouraged to call their local county conservation districts or Watershed Restoration and Protection Strategy coordinator for information and application information. Applications are due July 31. Several state agencies, including the Department of Agriculture, Department of Health and Environment and Water Office, are teaming up with the Neosho, Smoky Hill-Saline and Verdigris Regional Advisory Committees to prioritize the submissions.
For more information, go online to www.kwo.ks.gov.
