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Focus Watershed: Clark's Run of Dix River

Clark’s Run has been identified by the Kentucky Division of Water as impaired for high nutrient levels and low dissolved oxygen concentrations, which combine to make the creek unsuitable for aquatic life.  A recent water quality study further showed that the creek has high levels of E coli that make it unsuitable for wading or swimming.  Its poor water quality status, combined with significant local interest in addressing the issues, led the Kentucky Watershed Framework Steering Committee to select Clark’s Run as a “focus watershed” for the state.  Due to its selection, this multi-partner Steering Committee agreed to provide assistance in the watershed through technical and financial means.

Using this grant funding, Danville High School students will visit the Clark’s Run and collect multiple water samples.  Based on the sampling results and other classroom research, students will build dioramas of the watershed.  A durable banner will display aerial photographs of the watershed to provide a larger context for the dioramas.  Participating high schools students will travel to local elementary and middle schools in order to teach other area students about the Clark’s Run watershed and ways that local residents impact its water quality.