Richland Creek Environmental Association Inc

The RCEA was organized to resolve water quality issues associated with poor agricultural animal waste management practices in the Richland Creek Watershed. Farmers had no way of recycling accumulated wastes on their farm, which ended up as a containment in Richland Creek. The RCEA was organized through farm members with guidance from the Giles County SWCD, USDA-NRCS, UT-EXT and TDA. Initially grants obtained through TVA and TDA to purchase equipment. Usage fees are established targeting replacement costs and maintenance of equipment. The RCEA is operating as a non-profit. Target goals are directed to protecting water quality, educating managers of farming operations on the proper use of recycling animal waste, and providing for an emergency serviced option in instances of environmental hazards or spills associated with farming operations.