What is a watershed?: An area of land that drains to a common point, such as a stream, lake, pond, or wetland.

What is Nonpoint Source Pollution (NPS)?:  A variety of contaminates (e.g. sediments, nutrients, chemicals, etc.) that are delivered to surface waters by way of runoff or leached downward into groundwater.

What is a Watershed Project?:  Through Section 319 of the Clean Water Act, the North Dakota Department of Health administers the Nonpoint Source Pollution Management Program to improve watershed health and water quality.  Section 319 funds in North Dakota are awarded to local projects addressing NPS pollution, through a competitive grant application process.  Approved local projects receive 60% federal funds with a 40% local match requirement.

Do we have a local Watershed Project?:  The Bowman-Slope Soil Conservation District has sponsored multiple 319 Watershed Projects including the Bowman-Haley, Cedar Lake and Buffalo Springs/Lighting Creek Watersheds.