The development of a watershed evaluation scorecard based on data from 17 Lyon County watersheds.

Abstract

The major objective of this study was to relationship between proper watershed management (including reservoir) and range management in Lyon County. A watershed scorecard (similar to Parker's "range condition scorecard" [1951]) was developed for small watersheds (pastures and prairies) in Lyon County, Kansas. Seventeen Lyon County watersheds ranging from 5.6 to 39.6 hectares were analyzed using the factors mentioned above. The analysis involved sediment yield (testing a new sampling device which was found to be inadequate) range condition and ground cover sampling (step-loop method•• U.S. Forest Service) and theoretical values derived from observations and recognized sources (consultation with the Soil Conservation Service). The Watershed Scorecard A system for evaluating watershed condition was developed from observations and calculations of established watershed data similar to those found in the USLE. Watersheds can be rated excellent to very poor using the following equation: WCRV = RC + GCI + MCPF + SER + TWPEDI; where: "WCRV" is watershed condition rating value (excellent to very poor). "RC" is the range condition determined with a modified steploop method. "GCl" is the ground cover index rating by modified step-loop method. "MCPF" is developed from observations of present management practices. "SER" is the soil erodibility rating derived from the estimated, factored, current soil loss (EFCSL), which is based upon the watershed soil loss equation (WSLE Ly 17) which is derived from the USLE. (See List of Abbreviations.) "TWPEDl" is the total watershed plant erosion deterrence index which is a measure of variable plant species' ability to deter erosion. The results of this study indicated that much more research of this nature is needed in this region. Every watershed scorecard factor is reflected in or related to the MCPF (management practices factor). The MCPF is significantly correlated to WCRV (watershed condition rating). Therefore, the MCPF can be used to estimate present watershed condition and could aid in developing future management practices.