Watersheds, wetlands and wildlife

In our regular circle of family, friends and coworkers, now and then the topic of conservation surfaces — particularly when we may be faced with some sort of a crisis or a concern related to water quality, wildlife or some other environmental issue. What it means, or how important conservation ranks on one's list, hinges on the individual's perspective or the immediate impact incurred.Among some of the interesting comments I've come across, I can appreciate one person's response: Without conservation "ecosystems would fall apart and animals will become extinct." Over the past several years, I've noticed an increase in what is often referred to as a conservation movement, be it social or political or a combination of both.Regardless, the conservation effort is vital if we are to effectively protect our soil, water and related natural resources. Our survival greatly depends on it, as do all of Earth's animal and plant communities. Some have even went as far as proposing that conservation is one of the most important aspects of our lives, that "wellness of the environment" is directly related to the health and well-being of mankind and every other species living.Certainly, there are differences in ideology and in practice when it comes to conservation, evident when considering the varying cultures and geographical locations. Yet, mutually and collectively the greater goal is sustainability. Aldo Leopold said: "The oldest task in human history is to live on a piece of land without spoiling it." We should all agree that we have to find ways to lessen our harmful impact on our environment.The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) is viewed as the largest environmental investment in our Great Lakes region over the past two decades. Specifically aimed at Lake Erie, likeminded conservation agencies, organizations, businesses, ag producers and private landowners are pooling their efforts and resources to implement protection and restoration projects that will improve the water quality of this targeted watershed area.One agency in particular, the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), continues to work with all the conservation partners in this multi-state region through the GLRI. The goal is to further protect watersheds and shorelines, reduce identified non-point sources of pollution, address invasive species concerns and restore wetlands and other wildlife habitat areas.NRCS in Ohio has received funding for the GLRI through the Environmental Quality Incentive Program (EQIP) to administer programs for producers in Ohio's portion of the Western Lake Erie Basin. A variety of conservation practices, such as cover crops, grass filter strips, wetland restoration and livestock/commercial nutrient utilization are among the Best Management Practice (BMP) tools being implemented to help our lake to be cleaner and healthier.Agricultural producers in this multi-watershed, 24-county area are strongly encouraged to get in touch with their local NRCS office to discuss conservation planning options for their farming operation. Program payment rates for EQIP are about 75 percent of the practice cost; historically underserved program participants may be eligible to receive up to 90 percent of the cost of the approved conservation practice. Producers have until Feb. 17, 2017, to get their application submitted.Other good news where conservation is concerned here in Ohio is in regard to wetlands. Last year, landowners restored a little over 1,000 acres of wetlands through the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP). Eligible landowners could receive $1,300 to $6,600 per acre in exchange for permanent easements on their property to protect wetlands.Many are aware of the significant loss of wetland acres in Ohio — about 90 percent — over the past couple hundred years. Wetlands are often referred to as nature's "kidneys," naturally filtering contaminants out of the water. They also can serve as groundwater rechargers and flood water stores, while further providing vital habitat for diverse species of wildlife and migratory birds.Since 2005, NRCS has assisted landowners throughout Ohio by restoring more than 25,000 acres of wetlands. ACEP applications are accepted year-round, but landowners and farmers interested in the program must apply by Feb. 1, 2017, to be eligible for the current allotment of funding.I've crossed paths and had conversations with folks who have shared some of their own concerns in regard to wildlife, as well as offering some recommendations worth consideration. One of the best places anyone can provide this kind of input is at an ODNR Division of Wildlife Open House meeting.In a little over a month, there will be an opportunity for folks who are interested in talking with Division of Wildlife personnel. This is a chance for you to get to the "right" people to discuss some of your ideas and to share your wildlife concerns. It's generally an occasion to spend some quality time and have a warm conversation with fish and wildlife biologists or others with the Division, all who would welcome your participation.Here in the northern half of the Buckeye state, the Wildlife Open House meetings will take place noon-3 p.m. March 4 at two locations: Wildlife District Two, 952 Lima Ave. in Findlay and Wildlife District Three, 912 Portage Lakes Drive in Akron. Attendance and comments (written or public) are also welcome at the regularly scheduled Wildlife Council Meetings and the State Fish and Wildlife Hearings, but reservations must be made. Contact the Division of Wildlife for further details.Tim White, wildlife specialist with the Erie Soil and Water Conservation DistrictBetter land management will further protect our streams water quality. Field borders and grass buffers provide wildlife and pollinator habitat.A variety of flora and fauna proliferate in Ohio's vital wetlands.