This slide presentation outlines information on a pilot study for a wellhead protection plan begun in 1990 by Atlantic Municipal Utilities. The Troublesome Creek Wellhead Protection & Education Area Project
incorporates the conversion of 246 acres of former cropland, to a protected
wellhead area, which also offers a number of recreational and educational
opportunities for the public of western Iowa. The development includes
approximately 70 acres of restored prairie grasses and forbs, and a riparian buffer
strip along Troublesome Creek. The remainder of the area is seeded with timothy
grasses.
The project includes the following features:
over half a mile of paved concrete trails;
approximately two miles of limestone-surfaced trails;
parking, including handicapped-accessible spaces; and,
planted 13,500 seedling trees and 350 Techne Arverita Evergreen.
Atlantic's Little League complex is directly adjacent to the project.
Wildlife is thriving from the new habitat, including an extremely successful
bluebird nesting program. Deer, pheasants, and other wildlife are commonly seen
at the site.