Project Number: 6218-11130-003-03
Project Type: Specific Cooperative Agreement

Start Date: Jun 14, 2004
End Date: Apr 30, 2009

Objective:
To develop more responsive management approaches for agricultural lands and water resources that account for climate variability and climate and market risks. Additionally, to quantify impacts and value of conservation practices and programs at a watershed scale and foster dialog about water quality and water resources among diverse stakeholders.

Approach:
The work will be conducted in Southwest Oklahoma, largely as a case study within the Upper Washita River hydrologic unit. In conjunction with ARS research to assess quantitative effects of conservation practices and programs, the Great Plains RC&D will support contact with farmers and landowners to collect data about land management and solicit on-farm research cooperators; assess community attitudes and priorities relative to water quality and natural resource conservation; support outreach through mailings, news letters, website, field days, coffee shop meetings, workshops, etc.; and co-organize a regional symposium (SW Oklahoma) on water resources. The RC&D will lead efforts on value-added agriculture to diversify and strengthen rural economies.