Craig Rethman

This Nonpoint Source Implementation Strategy (NPS-IS) plan for the Upper Blue Creek watershed focuses on restoring and protecting fish and wildlife habitat. The plan addresses impairments caused by stream channelization, tile drainage, and failing septic systems. Key areas of focus include improving biological indices (IBI, ICI, MIwb) and the Qualitative Habitat Evaluation Index (QHEI) through habitat restoration, streambank stabilization, and agricultural best management practices (BMPs) implementation. The plan aims to achieve full attainment of aquatic life uses (ALU) and reduce nutrient loading to improve water quality in Lake Erie. Specific projects include riparian buffer installation, wetland restoration, and streambank stabilization.

This Nine-Element Nonpoint Source Implementation Strategic Plan (NPS-IS Plan) for the Headwaters of Blacklick Creek HUC-12 watershed in Franklin County, Ohio, aims to improve water quality and address the impacts of urbanization. The plan focuses on three critical areas: Dysart Run, Jefferson Drainage, and Fieldstone Drainage. Strategies include stream restoration projects to address erosion, bank stabilization, and improved stormwater management. The plan also emphasizes public participation and collaboration with various stakeholders, including residents, local governments, and agencies.

This Nine-Element Nonpoint Source Implementation Strategic Plan (NPS-IS plan) for Chickasaw Creek HUC-12 (05120101-0201) in the Grand Lake St. Marys watershed addresses nonpoint source impairments impacting water quality. The plan characterizes the watershed, identifies critical areas (primarily agricultural lands and stream corridors), and outlines projects to reduce nutrient (phosphorus and nitrogen) and sediment loading. Key strategies include nutrient incorporation in croplands, manure composting, stream restoration, and improved wastewater management. The plan aims to improve biological indicators (IBI, MIwb, ICI, QHEI) and reduce nutrient levels to achieve full attainment of water quality standards, ultimately improving the health of Grand Lake St. Marys, a public drinking water source.

The Nine-Element Nonpoint Source Implementation Strategic Plan (NPS-IS Plan) for the Preston Run -- Maumee River watershed focuses on improving water quality by addressing nutrient pollution, flow alteration, and habitat degradation. The plan identifies three critical areas: agricultural lands, urban areas, and the riparian corridor of the Maumee River. Strategies include implementing agricultural best management practices (BMPs) such as cover crops and controlled drainage structures, reducing urban stormwater runoff through green infrastructure, and restoring degraded stream habitats. The plan aims to improve biological indices (IBI, ICI, QHEI) and achieve water quality standards while protecting the Maumee River's designation as a state scenic and recreational river. Collaborative efforts involve the City of Defiance, Defiance County Soil and Water Conservation District, and other local organizations.

This Nine-Element Nonpoint Source Implementation Strategic Plan (NPS-IS) for the Euclid Creek Watershed focuses on restoring and protecting water resources. Key areas of focus include characterizing the watershed's physical and natural features, assessing biological trends, identifying pollution causes and sources, and developing critical area restoration strategies. The plan addresses impairments such as bacteria counts, dissolved oxygen levels, flow alteration, habitat alterations, and phosphorus loads. Implementation strategies involve projects to improve stream habitat, protect riparian areas, and reduce nonpoint source pollution from urban runoff. The plan prioritizes projects based on their ability to address specific objectives, landowner willingness, and public input. The ultimate goal is to restore the watershed to fishable, swimmable, and drinkable water quality standards.