NPSP
Non-Point Source Pollution Program
Funded from the State Water Plan to address non-point source pollution problems. These funds are available through your local county conservation district.
- Abandoned Water Well Plugging
- Failing Septic System Repair
- Livestock Waste Systems
- Riparian & Wetland Protection
- Soil Testing
Abandoned Water Well Plugging
Purpose - To eliminate potential contamination of ground water through open or poorly sealed abandoned water wells. These also pose a physical hazard to humans and animals. The plugging work can be done by the landowner or a licensed well driller, and the cost share rate is currently 70% of county average costs, up to a maximum payment of $500.
Information links:
Failing Septic System Repair
Purpose - To protect ground and surface water from contamination by failing septic systems. The Riley County Conservation District, through the Non-Point Source Pollution Control Program, provides cost-share to a limited number of Riley County landowners to replace failing septic systems that are considered a threat to water quality. These funds are only available for currently and continuously occupied homes - not for empty homes nor for new home construction. Eligibility requirements must be met. Current cost share rate is 50% of county average costs, up to a maximum of $1,500 per family, for those applications which score highest.
Information links:
Livestock Waste Systems
Purpose - To prevent the contamination of surface water from the runoff from confined feeding operations. The RCCD may provide cost-share for livestock waste systems, up to a maximum payment of $10,000. Livestock waste projects are usually considered a high priority, and each project is designed to meet the specific needs of the site and operation.
Information Links:
Riparian and Wetland Protection
Purpose - To clean, protect and restore Riley County waters. The riparian (streamside) and wetland protection program provides cost share funds at a rate of 70% up to a maximum payment of $10,000 to help landowners repair and protect eroded streambanks, to re-establish permanent vegetation along the streams, and to create or protect wetlands. This program includes streambank stabilization, establishment of vegetative filter strips along streams, and creation or enhancement of wetlands. Practices eligible for cost share include cedar tree revetments, willow pole plantings, grade stabilization structures, grass and tree plantings, livestock exclusion fencing, cross fencing, alternative water supplies (ponds, springs, etc.) and wetland creation or improvement and more.
Information Links:
Leopold Center for Sustainable Ag - Riparian Management Systems (pdf)
Soil Testing
Purpose - To reduce the amount of nutrients that enter the waters of Riley County. The soil tests are available through the Riley County Extension office at 110 Courthouse Plaza, Manhattan. Tests available include P, K, pH and N. Limit of 2 tests per year per landowner for lawn and garden testing; 10 tests per year per landowner for cropland testing. The cost share rate is 70% and customer paperwork is handled at the Extension office.