U.S. Representative Jackie Walorski (R-Ind.) this week visited Shatto Ditch in Saint Joseph County to highlight this innovative project’s benefits for the local agriculture industry.
“Hoosier farmers are dedicated stewards of both our natural resources and our local economy. Shatto Ditch is an innovative solution to promote sustainability and ensure the future success of our region’s vital agricultural community,” Congresswoman Walorski said. “As a collaboration among federal, state, and research leaders, Shatto Ditch is making important progress toward safeguarding Indiana’s natural resources. I was thrilled to see this project’s achievements firsthand and look forward to its continued success.”
BACKGROUND
Shatto Ditch is a tributary to the Tippecanoe River and drains a watershed with row crops and agriculture, forest, residential areas, and water and wetlands. By pairing cover crops and a two-stage ditch, this project reduces fertilizer runoff downstream and improves productivity associated with improvements in soil quality.
This conservation effort is led by a collaboration of governmental and non-governmental stakeholders, including the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Indiana Natural Resources Conservation Service, Kosciusko County Soil & Water Conservation District, University of Notre Dame, Indiana University – Bloomington, The Nature Conservancy, Kosciusko County Surveyors, and United States Geological Survey.
Walorski represents the 2nd Congressional District of Indiana, serving as a member of the House Ways and Means Committee and the Ranking Member of the House Ethics Committee.
