Focus Watershed: Hanging Fork and Clark's Run of Dix River

The Dix River Watershed Council was formed in 2004 to investigate the water quality of this watershed.  The sampling results from 2007 to 2008 produced average E coli concentrations that were greater than the state’s swimming and wading (primary recreation) standard at ALL 31 sampling sites in the Dix River Watershed.  Some of the greatest concentrations were found at sites in the Clark’s Run and Hanging Fork tributaries of the Dix River, both of which are now listed by the Kentucky Division of Water as failing to support their recreational use. 

A follow-up “microbial source tracking study” was commissioned by the Council and the Division of Water to determine whether the source of high E coli was human, cattle or other.  Results at 4 out of 5 Hanging Fork sites and 2 out of 4 Clark’s Run sites showed the E coli to be from mainly human sources.  Based on land use and Health Department surveys, many of the residences and businesses in the sampled areas are located in unsewered areas and are using onsite sewage treatment systems (septic systems) to dispose of waste. 

Based on its findings, the Dix River Watershed Council will conduct a widespread education campaign to educate homeowners about septic system function and maintenance.  A local intern will be hired to conduct the outreach campaign.  This person will spend approximately 8-10 hours / week researching the topic, compiling mailing lists, preparing educational materials, working with local stakeholders, and providing presentations to community groups.  It is hoped that, by increasing awareness of the issues accompanying failing septic systems and ways to avoid their failure, the Council will reduce pathogen runoff to area streams and the Dix River/Herrington Lake.