Nonpoint source pollution has been identified by the Tanners Creek Watershed Project as the primary source of degradation of Tanners Creek and its tributaries.  The approach taken by the Tanners Creek Watershed Project for addressing the nonpoint source water pollution problem is to encourage voluntary participation by the community. This approach is supported by financial incentives, technical and educational assistance, and research programs.

Financial incentives are provided through the Tanners Creek Cost-Share Program.  This program is administered by the Dearborn County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) and funded by a generous Indiana Department of Environmental Management Section 319 Grant. It has been applauded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and has received wide support from the general public, as well as the agricultural community.

While the Tanners Creek Watershed Project has the statutory responsibility to create, implement, and supervise the cost-share program, it is delivered by the Dearborn County SWCD Technician/Educator, Vickie Smith.

Participating landowners may receive up to 75% of predetermined average costs of installed conservation practices, with the remaining cost paid by landowner directly or through in-kind contributions.  There is a yearly cap of $10,000 in cost-share funds per landowner. The Tanners Creek Watershed Project allocates cost-share funds to landowners based on water quality protection priorities.

The cost-share program was authorized in 2004 as a pilot program to address nonpoint source problems in the nutrient-sensitive waters of Tanners Creek and its many tributaries located within Dearborn County. Due to the program's success, it has been extended until June of 2010.  In addition to Tanners Creek Cost-share program, there are other cost-share programs available to help enhance and develop your land. If you are interested in learning more about cost-share programs available, contact the Dearborn County SWCD Technician at: vickie.smith@in.nacdnet.net.