Click here for the web site about this project: http://www.kwalliance.org/redbirdriver

Click here for a PDF flyer with driving directions: http://www.kwalliance.org/sites/default/files/attachments/redbirdmeetingflyer_march_2012.pdf

Courtesy of Kentucky Waterway Alliance:

Red Bird River Watershed Restoration Plan Update

FRANKFORT, Ky., Feb. 27, 2012 – Local community groups, agencies and individuals are continuing to work together to form a water quality improvement plan for the Red Bird River Watershed Restoration project. The plan will enable the group to apply for state and federal funding to accomplish project work within the watershed vicinity. The next meeting is scheduled for March 13 at 6 p.m. at the Big Creek Mission in Leslie County. Everyone is invited to attend – no prior experience or knowledge required.

“The goal of this group is to get an idea of what is happening in the Red Bird River watershed and identify projects and activities that will improve current conditions and economic opportunities,” said Tessa Edelen, Kentucky Waterways Alliance Watershed Program Director.

“Clean water is vital to every community, and we look forward to working with local residents and community leaders to help meet their future needs.”

The first restoration group meeting was held in October 2011. The participants identified key environmental issues, including the need for water quality improvements. Others noted an interest in enhancing recreational opportunities along the Red Bird River.

In a second meeting held last month, participants discussed the next steps required for the watershed planning process. Some attendees volunteered to help supply data and information concerning the area’s existing condition. The group will use a watershed planning process developed by the Kentucky Waterways Alliance. This process has been used in other communities across the state.

A third meeting is scheduled on March 13 at the Big Creek Mission – a different meeting location. The group will learn more about the watershed and possibilities for Best Management Practices to protect and restore the Red Bird.

“This is a locally-driven plan that needs as much participation as possible from the surrounding communities,” said Edelen.

“Anyone interested in the Red Bird River should attend this meeting, especially those who live in Clay, Leslie and Bell counties. Watershed planning is a great way to protect the streams in good condition, take care of a stream with pollution issues, and outreach to the local community about water resource issues.”

The March 13 meeting will be at Big Creek Missions, 90 Bullskin Road, Bear Branch, KY 41714 (in the old Big Creek Elementary School building) in Leslie County from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

For more information or for directions to the next meeting, visit the Kentucky Waterways Alliance website at www.kwalliance.org/redbirdriver or contact Project Coordinator Tessa Edelen at Tessa@kwalliance.org or 502-589-8008.

In case of inclement weather, the meeting will be rescheduled.

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