WSP11669 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

~~~~ \~~iqation Induced Erosion . ' I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Upper portions of irrigated fields have been deteriorated by erosion. Productivity is also being lost. Sedimentation The sediment coming off the upper portions of the irrigated fields is being deposited on the lower portions of fields and into drains, creeks, and the Arkansas River. This sediment deposition on fields lowers the productivity potential. The sediment also carries heavy metals, and other pollutants into the streams and reduces channel capacity and the quality of fish and wildlife habitat. Prime and Imoor~ant Farmlands The resource base is being deteriorated by irrigation induced erosion and sedimentation. Social/Economic Reduced water quality, inadequate irrigation system, as well as irrigation induced erosion has reduced yield, changed cropping patterns from higher valued crops and thereby reduced the income of the watershed area. Irrigated agriculture and livestock are the major portions of the economy of the area. Wildlife Habitat Erosion and sedimentation degrade upland wildlife habitat. Riparian vegetation along streams will continue to be impacted by pollutants. Fish Habitat Pollutants including sediment have reduced fisheries potential and habitat in the Arkansas River. The diversity of fish species and quantity of fish are also affected. Municioal and Rural Water Suoolv/Groundwater Pollutants are affecting the Arkansas River water quality and on-farm wells for humans and livestock. EPA and State standards are not met in some cases. Wetlands Wetlands are found along drains, the Arkansas River, and seeps in irrigated crop fields. Sediment and pollutants getting into wetlands should be reduced and therefore improve the water quality of the remaining wetlands. Cultural Resources of National Sionificance 21