On the Leading Edge- CONSERVATION DRAINAGE AT THE WATERSHED SCALE

The third and final session in the three-part series will focus on applying the Ag Conservation Planning Framework (ACPF), a free watershed modeling tool, to demonstrate how model outputs can be used to improve watershed outreach and education, evaluate nutrient loss reduction scenarios, and advance adoption and implementation of conservation drainage practices.

Featured Speakers:

Jeff Boeckler is the principal and co-founder of Northwater Consulting. He works extensively with governments, organizations, and businesses to address water resource challenges through assessment, monitoring, and geospatial analysis.

Haley Haverback-Gruber is a Watershed Outreach Associate with the University of Illinois Extension. She coordinates watershed planning efforts in the Lower Rock and the Henderson/Flint, identified as nitrogen priority watersheds for the IL Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy.

Jennifer Jones also works as a Watershed Outreach Associate with the University of Illinois Extension. Her work is focused in the Embarras and Little Wabash watersheds, which have been identified as phosphorus priority watersheds in the IL NLRS.

Keegan Kult is the Executive Director of the Ag Drainage Management Coalition, an industry-led organization that looks to speed the implementation of conservation drainage practices to improve water quality while maintaining the production benefits of drainage. He has extensive experience designing, evaluating, and installing conservation drainage practices.

Partners engaged in development of the On the Leading Edge series include representatives from The Nature Conservancy, The Wetlands Initiative, IL Land Improvement Contractors Association, Ag Drainage Management Coalition, University of Illinois Extension, Association of Illinois Soil and Water Conservation Districts, Illinois Association of Drainage Districts, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Farm Service Agency, DIGS Associates, and Springfield Plastics.