Community-Based Efforts to Address Phosphorus Levels in Matt Warner Reservoir
Applied Research
Cheyenne Reid
Utah State University
Vernal
Abstract
Matt Warner Reservoir in Uintah County experiences annual harmful algal blooms due to high phosphorus levels, leading the Utah Department of Environmental Quality - Division of Water Quality to determine the reservoir does not meet water quality standards. Agriculture was identified as a major contributor to phosphorus levels. In response, the Uintah County Conservation District launched a community-based project to investigate the issue, discovering elevated phosphorus levels in soil surrounding Pot Creek, a primary tributary to the reservoir. To address soil erosion and reduce phosphorus runoff, the project proposed fencing sections of Pot Creek to restrict livestock access and diverting water to alternate locations, employing conservation-focused solutions. Despite being in place for three years, the plan has struggled to gain traction with landowners. Navigating local stakeholder dynamics between landowners and agricultural lessees has proven challenging, as landowners prefer lessees to fund improvements, while lessees seek longer-term leases to justify their investments. This stalemate illustrates the importance of coordinating efforts across watersheds and communities while employing strategies for successful stakeholder engagement to align diverse interests. By focusing on collaborative, community-driven approaches that integrate conservation goals with local needs, this project aims to reduce phosphorus runoff, improve water quality, and address the broader challenges of watershed management. Lessons learned from this effort provide valuable insights into fostering partnerships and implementing sustainable solutions in shared ecosystems.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: Cheyenne Reid
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Reid, C. , , Utah, 84078