Small Watershed Program (PL-566)

The small watershed program provides both technical and financial (project implementation) assistance to help urban and rural communities protect, improve, and develop water and land resources in watersheds of up to 250,000 acres (approximately 390 square miles). Projects are undertaken at the request of local sponsors who seek assistance in addressing resource issues related to:

• flood prevention (including wetland and flood plain easements);
• agricultural water management (conservation, development, use and disposal);
• fish and wildlife development;
• public recreation (water resource improvement and basic facilities);
• ground water recharge;
• water quality management;
• conservation and proper use of land (watershed protection)

Coordination with appropriate county, state, and tribal agencies is necessary. Sponsors and other beneficiaries are expected to provide a share of costs, depending
on the type of project, and are responsible for operation and maintenance of any installed improvements.

How it Works:   Small watershed projects are initiated by submitting a request for assistance through the local Conservation District. NRCS then conducts a field reconnaissance to assess the type and extent of the water resource issues. If the project appears viable (economically, environmentally and socially), the sponsors are encouraged to submit a formal application for assistance. Watershed plans, when complete, are designed to achieve specific project goals, and are usually implemented with federal financial assistance.

For Further Information: Contact your local USDA Service Center, or Norm Evenstad, Water Resources Coordinator at (801) 524-4569.

Last Modified:  05/16/2007

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