Are we concerned about those rivers that feed into the
watershed, like the Blanchard River? What steps are being taken
to ensure phosphorus and sediment are being reduced from those
sources? Federal, state and local agencies are very concerned
about all the watersheds that feed into Lake Erie. That is where
nutrients and sediments originate and that is where solutions
will be applied to reduce and mitigate the problem. Numerous
steps are underway to reduce non point pollutants from these
sources. USDA is investing additional dollars in these
watersheds to help farmers with the cost of applying the needed
conservation practices. USDA, Ohio State University Extension,
Agricultural Research Service, EPA and the regions Colleges and
Universities are funding research into the nutrient problems and
finding solutions. Local Soil and Water Conservation Districts
based in each county focus most of their program efforts on
education, demonstrations and direct assistance to inform and
assist land users in implementing p