The Boone Creek
watershed lies along the boundary between Fayette County and Clark County. The
land is in the inner subregion of the Bluegrass physiographic region,
characterized by undulating terrain and moderate rates of both surface runoff
and groundwater drainage. The watershed lies above thick layers of easily
dissolved limestone that form carbonate aquifers. Groundwater flows through
channels in the limestone, so caves and springs are common in regions with this
geology.
Waterways. Boone Creek empties into the Kentucky River just north of
Clays Ferry and Interstate 75. Among the creeks that feed it are Baughman Fork,
Jones Creek, and Mary Reynolds Creek.
Land and water use. Land in the watershed is mainly agricultural.
Four businesses and organizations hold permits for discharges into the creeks.
See tables for details.
Agency data assessment. The assessed creek segments in this watershed
include one that does not support its designated uses, based on biological
and/or water-quality data. Two other segments only partially support designated
uses. Nutrients and pathogens from agricultural and municipal sources and from
sewage package plants contribute to the impairment of these streams. A TMDL
(total maximum daily load) plan for Baughman Fork has reached the preliminary
draft stage. See tables for details.
Watershed rankings. The ranking formula provides a preliminary
ranking by synthesizing a broad spectrum of watershed characteristics, current
conditions, and threats. This watershed ranks in the group with the highest need
for protection and/or restoration. This rating is for the watershed on average:
particular sites and particular waters within the watershed may vary widely. See
tables for details.
Volunteer data. There are two volunteer sites on Boone Creek. See
tables for details.
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