R2016-09 AUTHORIZING AGREEMENT AGRICULTURAL WATERSHED INSTITUTE

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Mr. Keith Alexander, City of Decatur–January 26, 2016–Page 2 Sediment and nutrient Best Management Practices (BMPs): AWI will identify and develop strategies for reducing sediment and nutrient loads in the Lake Decatur watershed. AWI staff will provide technical assistance to landowners, agricultural producers, and other stakeholders to implement BMPs. In consultation with the City and subject matter experts, AWI will continue to participate in research and outreach efforts for sediment and nutrient reduction. In particular, AWI will continue to wark on strategies for nutrient and sediment reduction identified in the 2014 Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) implementation plans developed for the Big Creek/Long Creek and Big Ditch subwatersheds and approved by Illinois EPA. AWI will continue to collaborate with Macon County SWCD and other partners to implement the multi- year USDA Regional Conservation Partnership Program project. Water resources planning and management: AWI will promote city-farm-industry dialogue and cooperation for water resource management, especially Lake Decatur source water protection. AWI will participate in the Heart of The Sangamon River Ecosystem Partnership and in special projects such as local river/lake clean-up days and the proposed Sangamon River— Lincoln Heritage Water Trail. AWI staff will assist as requested in implementing the 2010 Sustainable Decatur plan. AWI will identify and evaluate innovative resource management concepts and alternatives, and potential funding sources for research, development, and implementation. AWI will serve on the steering committee to explore formation of a statewide Environmental Utility and will keep the City informed of matters that may affect the City. As requested by the City, AWI will gather information and assist in public participation activities to identify ways to reduce costs, mitigate adverse impacts, and increase benefits and public acceptance of alternatives for dredging, dredged sediment reuse and water supply enhancements. Perennial biomass crops grown for renewable energy, forage, and water quality: Perennial energy grasses planted in targeted locations and used for renewable energy or animal feed can provide numerous benefits. This agreement includes City financial support for AWI's Local Bioenergy Initiative. The Initiative is designed to reduce soil erosion and sedimentation, enhance water quality, and achieve other environmental and economic objectives in the Lake Decatur watershed. The major components of the Initiative are: 1. Assist local farmers and landowners to begin growing biomass crops. This includes workshops, field days, and other educational activities for prospective growers. In addition to outreach and education activities, AWI will provide technical, financial, and in-kind assistance to farmers and landowners to establish perennial biomass crops. 2. Develop and demonstrate landscape design concepts. Production of energy grasses involves synergies and trade-offs between multiple objectives. AWI will continue to work with university scientists, other nonprofit organizations, and agricultural producers to optimize coproduction of harvestable biomass and enhanced water quality. 3. Develop markets for perennial biomass crops and related benefits. Over the past six years, AWI has established working relationships with biomass supply chain businesses, leading scientists, agricultural producers, government agencies, and other stakeholders. During the term of this agreement, AWI will continue to work with these partners and co-chair the Green Lands Blue Waters (GLBW) Biomass Working Group as it develops and implements a regional Perennial Biomass Initiative for coproduction of harvestable biomass and ecosystem services, especially clean water.