Upper Blue Creek Nonpoint Source Implementation Strategic Plan
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.