The Economic Times

In 1994, Idaho listed Rapid Creek for sediment after grazing added excess sediment. 20 years later, 3 reaches were delisted after BMPs improved habitat and water quality

Rapid Creek in southeastern Idaho was listed for sediment impairment in 1994 after assessments found that several streams did not support cold water aquatic life. Livestock grazing, streambank erosion, sheet and rill erosion, and road erosion contributed excess sediment to the watershed. Beginning in the late 1980s, landowners and watershed partners implemented agricultural best management practices to reduce soil erosion and improve stream conditions. Later monitoring showed declines in suspended solids, Escherichia coli, and nitrogen concentrations, along with improved biological and habitat scores.