Response to erosion project questions

In response to the “Streambank Erosion Project questioned” letter to the editor in the July 15, 2021, Independent Record, I would like to clarify some points. All Hot Spring Conservation District and NRCS projects are brought to the two organizations by the landowner and 100% voluntary. The landowner comes to us with a problem and we try our best to help them.

The Russian olive trees were removed by Hot Springs Weed and Pest at the landowner’s request because they were placed on the Wyoming Designated Noxious Weed List in 2006. The presence of Russian olive trees directly decreases the plant diversity by choking out native plants and trees, and thereby secondarily decreasing wildlife diversity. Part of this project was to replant native grasses and trees along the streambank to reestablish a diverse riparian area that will benefit wildlife. The landowner has set up an irrigation system to help the saplings and grass grow, and is protecting that area with an electric fence while they are getting established.

The Big Horn River Stabilization Project, referred to in the Letter to the Editor as the Streambank Erosion Project, was funded jointly by the landowner, NCRS, Hot Springs Conservation District, along with the Wyoming Wildlife and Natural Resource Trust. It was the landowner’s decision to remove the trees from his property to use on this project because they met the Engineer’s specifications. The necessary permits and permission were obtained from the Army Corps of Engineers. The landowner locally sourced the concrete material used for this project. The landowner and Hot Springs Conservation district employees witnessed the bald eagles mentioned in the article still using the aerie in the remaining tree since the completion of this project.

In summary, the Hot Springs Conservation District respects the rights of landowners to be stewards of their own property. What they choose to do on and with their property is their business. We stand behind this and all of our projects, and are here to help landowners achieve their conservation goals. We welcome any Hot Springs County resident to apply to any of our programs.

Sincerely,

Kathy Sorensen,

District Manager