THE SUGAR CREEK HEADWATERS Farming Partners, formed in 2000 by farmers in Wayne and Holmes counties, has sparked the interest of an entire community. Farmers at a crossroads with conventional operations see the program as an opportunity to explore environmentally friendly farming strategies. Others see it as a way to improve the land on which they live.

Richard Moore, of OARDC's Department of Human and Community Resource Development and member of the Agroecosystems Management Program, said the goal of the task force is to help citizens along the Sugar Creek create a watershed vision based on their values and aspirations.

Each sub-watershed has unique problems, resulting in varying activities. A team of Amish farmers is examining data in the South Fork, the southernmost tributary of Sugar Creek. A USDA SARE grant made it possible to educate local teachers about pollution levels. Field days are held to showcase conservation efforts by area farmers who have added grass waterways, planted grass and trees next to the stream, and planted lower chemical input non-GMO soybeans. OARDC scientists are creating models for land use and water quality in hopes that soon other watersheds will adopt the Sugar Creek method.

The task force is supported by Ohio State scientists, Extension agents, EPA and ODNR officials, and Soil and Water Conservation Districts. Interest in the program continues to blossom as local Amish communities, educators, city officials and homeowners become involved.

"We're starting at the headwaters," Moore said. "Perhaps one day the circle will widen all the way to the Ohio River."