Catalpa Creek

Nearly 29,000 acres of Oktibbeha and Lowndes Counties in northeast Mississippi are in the Catalpa Creek Watershed. Rainfall in the watershed flows into 31 miles of streams and creeks on its way to Columbus Lake and the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway. The watershed includes part of the city of Starkville and portions of the Mississippi State University campus and farm facilities, as well as privately owned lands. Current land cover includes hay and pastureland, cultivated crops, developed properties, and wetlands or open water.

University research activities and development in the city and on campus are contributing to stream, ecosystem, and water quality degradation in the watershed. The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality currently lists Catalpa Creek as impaired and in need of restoration. Agricultural resource concerns identified for the watershed include sedimentation, grazing, sustainable forestry, and declining wildlife habitat. Urban storm water management is also a key need. In response to these issues, the Catalpa Creek Watershed Restoration and Protection Project was initiated. The goals of the project are:

1. Restore and protect ecosystem health, ecosystem services, quality of life, and water resources within the watershed;

2. Develop an informed citizenry in the watershed and beyond;

3. Create experiential learning opportunities for students, educators, and practitioners.

Stream Bank and Shoreline Protection

Problem

Fast moving water, steep bank slopes, and sparse vegetation resulted in stream bank erosion. Problems with establishing vegetation and erosion were compounded by herbicide use along the streamside.

Solution

Trees, shrubs, and grasses are now allowed to grow along the stream and banks. Their roots hold soil in place and the plants provide wildlife habitat.

Heavy Use Area Protection

Problem

Soil erosion was occurring due to high-volume traffic of animals at watering structures. Rain water runoff was carrying soil and animal waste into waterways.

Solution

Heavy use pads which include filter fabric, crushed stone, or aggregate were placed around the concrete pad to control mud and keep livestock healthier and safer. This also protects water quality by lessening sedimentation and pathogens that wash from muddy areas to waterways.

Fence / Forage and Biomass Planting

Problem

High volumes of stormwater sweep through this tributary. This caused erosion on the stream bank and roadsides, siltation in the creek, and water contamination from pasture waste runoff.

Solution

A large culvert was armored (Stream Bank Stabilization) and fence was installed to control livestock activity near the tributary. Native grasses were established between the fence and along the banks to reduce erosion, stop pasture runoff, and provide wildlife habitat.

Heavy Use Area Protection

Problem

Heavy use by livestock and farm equipment resulted in soil erosion and the potential for injury to animals.

Solution

The roadway was graded, and filter fabric and gravel were placed on the surface to provide a safe passageway with no soil loss.

Fence / Stream Crossing

Problem

Stormwater sweeps through this small tributary. Cattle also moved through the tributary when grazing and drinking. This caused erosion on the stream bank and in the pasture, siltation in the creek, and water contamination from the livestock.

Solution

Stream crossings were installed, and fences were placed to keep cattle out of the stream. These conservation practices reduce erosion, stop pasture runoff, allow safe movement of animals, and provide wildlife habitat.