Water Friendly Programs

The Greater Bonne Femme Water-Friendly Programs invites everyone to help protect clean water and support a healthy environment. The program aims to reduce pollution, save water, restore wildlife habitats, and inspire people in the community to care for the environment.

The current programs offered are the Water-Friendly Farmers Reconnection Program and the Water-Friendly Resident Program. The Greater Bonne Femme Watershed is the pilot watershed for the Water Friendly. We hope to expand to other watersheds in Boone County over the years.

Water-Friendly Farmer Recognition Program

The Water-Friendly Farmers Recognition Program honors farmers who are improving water quality in the Greater Bonne Femme Watershed.

The program honors farmers who protect watershed resources through sustainable practices. By adopting best management techniques, they support community health and promote environmental stewardship on their farms and throughout the watershed.

Recipient Recognition

The selected Water-Friendly Farmer will receive:

• A recognition sign to be displayed at their farm.
• Public recognition at the Town and Country Dinner.
• A feature article on the Greater Bonne Femme website.
• An infographic highlighting the award, which can be used on the awardee's website and marketing materials.

Qualifications

Nominees must incorporate one or more of these practices on their farm.

Water Quality and Water Conservation: Preserve or improve water quality; protect stream buffers and groundwater recharge areas.

Land Conservation and Soil Health: Reduce or prevent soil erosion while protecting natural areas and local habitats.

Natural Resource Conservation: Implement practices that positively impact natural resources, such as providing wildlife habitat.

Farmland Preservation: Maintaining the land for agricultural use.

How to Apply

Nominations can be submitted for your own farm or ranch, or for a colleague, via online form, email, or standard mail.

• Nominees must actively farm within the Greater Bonne Femme Watershed (map).
• All nominations must be received by July 1 each year.
• Nomination forms may be completed online or submitted by email or standard mail.
• Nominees must be landowners or farmers who lease land and have the authority to make land management decisions.

Application Form

Water-Friendly Resident Program

The Greater Bonne Femme Water-Friendly Resident Recognition Program encourages individuals to take voluntary actions that protect clean water and promote a healthy environment.

The Program is currently only offered to residents of the Greater Boone Femme Watershed. We hope to expand the program to all of Boone County in the Future.

Not sure if you live in the Greater Bonne Femme Watershed? Start the survey, and it will tell you which watershed you live in.

How to Get Recognized for Being a Water-Friendly Resident

Becoming a Water-Friendly Resident in the Greater Bonne Femme Watershed is simple.

Complete the survey on water quality, lawn and garden care, water conservation, and wildlife support. Pledge to adopt water-friendly practices at home.

Take the Water-Friendly Resident Survey and Pledge.

Perks of Joining:

• Water-Friendly Residents receive a yard sign recognizing their commitment.
• Become part of the Water-Friendly Resident Club.
• Receive monthly tips.
• Gain recognition as a community leader in protecting water quality.