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December 22, 1999
Organization trying to restore Cottonwood RiverRiver has highconcentrationsof sediment,nutrients, bacteriaBy TONY ZIEBOL Journal Staff Writer In a study recently completed by the Redwood-Cottonwood Rivers Control Area, it was discovered that the Cottonwood River is impaired by high concentrations of sediment, nutrients and bacteria. The RCRCA, a local, eight-county joint powers organization, gathered data between 1997 and 1999. Using a water quality monitoring program as the study's primary research tool, the data was gathered from three main stem locations and six tributary sites. The study looked at both physical characteristics, such as steambank erosion, and aquatic life. A fishery survey assessed populations and species diversity. Because the Cottonwood River is a designated canoe route in Minnesota, the study results showing that recreational use is impaired by sediment, bacteria and channel obstruction became a large concern, said Bob Finley of the RCRCA. "We're trying to capitalize on the recreational use of the river," Finley said, adding that some areas near the Cottonwood River offer exceptional opportunities for hiking, bird-watching and many other outdoor activities. As a result of the study findings, a Cottonwood River Restoration Project has been started and 10-year goals were established. The goals are summarized in three major parts: * To achieve the highest water quality attainable for ecoregion streams. * To have watershed residents take an active role in enhancing and protecting the Cottonwood River * To develop the Cottonwood River as a major recreational resource within the Minnesota River basin. Restoring the river will include trapping sediments from getting into the river, watching agricultural runoff, periodically testing certain areas to look for improvement and other active roles that the RCRCA hopes will restore the river to a useable resource. "We want to try somewhat to isolate the project areas and try to remedy the problems," Finley said. In 1997 the study showed that more than 300,000 tons of sediment entered the river, which was much higher than expected. Large amounts of sediment can severely damage a river because it can block out the sun and eliminate oxygen so plants and aquatic life cannot survive. Another surprise the study illuminated was that the river had a higher amount of total phosphorus than expected. Two tributaries to the Cottonwood River were found to have an elevated pollutant volume. As part of the restoration project, RCRCA also plans to verify old data that shows the lower 20 miles of the Cottonwood River do not support swimming due to the presence of excess fecal coliform bacteria. This bacteria come rom warm-blooded animals, and get into the river primarily from feedlots and septic systems, Finley said. The bacteria have no effect on the aquatic species in the river, but pose a threat to humans. "What this means is you shouldn't go in the water," Finley said. Since a similar study and project of the Redwood River in the early 1990s showed considerable success, the RCRCA is optimistic the Cottonwood River Restoration Project will be successful as well, although the Cottonwood River is roughly twice the size. The RCRCA wants to work with local agencies, governments, private groups and residents to restore the river as much as possible. With financial and public support, Finley said he believes the RCRCA can make a difference.
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