Wyoming Watersheds Progress 2005

Powder River Watershed
Powder River Conservation District
PO Box 48
350 Nolan Avenue
Kaycee, WY 82639
307-738-2321
wendy.wagoner@wy.nacdnet.net
 

Waters Addressed
Salt Creek
Powder River

Background
In 1998, the Powder River, from Salt Creek an undetermined distance downstream, was listed as impaired by chloride. In 2000, selenium was added as an impairment to the Powder River from South Fork Powder River an undetermined distance downstream below Sussex. In 2002, Salt Creek was listed as impaired by chloride from the Powder River an undetermined distance upstream.

Monitoring Activities
The Powder River Conservation District contracted with a consulting firm. The consultants have been conducting water monitoring studies since April 2003. Ten sites were monitored in 2003. Two additional sites were included in studies during the 2004 water monitoring season. Due to results of the monitoring, the District plans to narrow the scope of samples being collected. The first phase of the Salt Creek Watershed Assessment Project took place in 2003. Ten sites were developed to collect data regarding the selenium and chloride levels on Salt Creek and the Powder River. The second phase began in 2004 and two additional sites were developed to help obtain more credible data. The third and final stage will take place in 2005. New sites are being developed to concentrate on selenium levels in the Powder River. Chloride will continue to be monitored.

Planning
The Powder River Conservation District held a public meeting shortly after the listing in 1998. A steering committee was formed to provide direction and guidance on future assessment and planning efforts. Based on data collected, it has been determined that the quality of Salt Creek, despite the elevated levels of chloride, is of better quality as a result of the discharges from industry than the natural water quality. Planning efforts will be pursued on the Powder River pending the results of assessments.

Implementation Activities
A Use Attainability Analysis was submitted to the DEQ by Anadarko Petroleum Corp. to address chloride levels in Salt Creek. New sites are being developed to concentrate on selenium levels in the Powder River. Implementation of practices is dependent upon the data results on the South Fork of the Powder River and the Powder River.

Participants
The Salt Creek Watershed Advisory Board is compiled of members who represent the oil industry, local ranchers, the Natrona County Conservation District, and the Powder River Conservation District.

Funding
Amount                           Sources
Local $ 25,777.00            Powder River CD
State $ 30,000.00             Wy. Dept. of Agriculture
Federal $129,694.00        Dept. of Environmental Quality/EPA
                                        Big Horn National Forest Rural
                                        Assistance Program

The Salt Creek watershed

Channel width being measured on
Salt Creek monitoring site