Water Quality (Riparian Area Protection) Projects

Riparian area management and rotational grazing systems work together to protect and enhance water quality, soil, and wildlife habitat. The Kerr Center has developed several working demonstrations to show producers how these techniques work in the field.

A riparian area is the vegetated area adjacent to a stream or other body of water. Riparian area ecosystems are often threatened because of their attractive location. Riparian bottomland forests have been cleared to become prime farmlands or prime real estate.

However, riparian areas in their natural state help reduce floods, stabilize stream banks, provide food and shelter for wildlife. control and reduce the effects of non-point pollution.

Non point source pollution can include pesticides, fertilizers, and sediment from the surrounding watershed. In LeFlore County, according to researchers, runoff containing chicken litter is polluting lakes and streams.

One of the most important aspects of a riparian area is the benefit to wildlife. Not only do riparian areas provide food and shelter, but act as travel corridors between increasingly segmented habitats.

Buffer Strips
The Kerr Center has fenced cattle out of several riparian areas on the ranch, establishing "buffer strips" along streams.

Click here for a slide show showing the changes in one fenced riparian area over several years time.

Limited Access Watering Points

limited access watering point

At the Stewardship Ranch, several ponds have been constructed to provide water for the livestock. Developing these water points has had the added benefits of allowing us to cross-fence more effectively, intensify grazing, and better utilize the pastures.

The new ponds have been fenced so cattle have restricted access. A floating fence and rock ramps have been installed to allow cattle access to the water, yet keep them from wading all over the pond. The ramps help prevent soil erosion, extend the life of the pond, improve water quality, and enhance the wildlife.

Stabilized Stream Crossing Points
Stream crossing points are an important consideration for both livestock and machinery. When a stream bisects pastureland, fencing out cattle from portions of the stream will often concentrate livestock at a single crossing point. Stabilizing crossing points can help eliminate some of the problems associated with the increased traffic.

Several points have been installed on the stewardship ranch using a design provided by the NRCS.

Click here for a slide show showing the installation of a stabilized stream crossing point.

Click here to read the fact sheet, "Riparian Area Protection" which describes riparian area projects and their costs