The Griers Creek
watershed is in west-central Woodford 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. Griers Creek empties into the Kentucky River just above
Tyrone. Its several branches drain the area south of downtown Versailles.
Land and water use. Land in the watershed is about 80% agricultural,
more than 10% rural and wooded, and the remainder residential, commercial, or
industrial. Four businesses and organizations hold permits for discharges into
the creeks. See tables for details.
Agency data assessment. The assessed creek segment in this watershed
only partially supports its designated uses, based on biological and/or
water-quality data. A variety of factors contribute to the impairment of these
streams. 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 a moderate 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. Phosphorus levels in Griers Creek were elevated
enough to cause potential nutrient enrichment problems (> 0.1 mg/L). A
significant amount of the triazine herbicide atrazine was detected (>1
microgram per liter); however, the concentration of atrazine was below the EPA’s
maximum contaminant level of 3 micrograms per liter. See tables for details.
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