Northwater was retained as the lead consultant to assist the Agricultural Watershed Institute (AWI) in completing a Watershed Implementation Plan for Big Ditch and Big and Long Creek. The project was unique and challenging due to its short time frame and its high nitrogen loading.  Both watersheds drain to Lake Decatur, a public water supply experiencing issues with sedimentation and excessive nutrient loading.

Roles included identifying Best Management Practices in addition to performing advanced GIS analysis and mapping. Northwater built a custom map-based pollution load model, identified over 300 site-specific implementation projects, and calculated pollution load reductions. Northwater also coordinated with the Illinois State Water Survey to utilize a previously completed SWAT model, developed a water quality monitoring plan, identified and mapped critical areas, and completed all plan formatting.

The project was completed under a very aggressive schedule.