The Blanchard River Watershed Partnership (BRWP) held their annual meeting on November 18, 2015 at the Hancock Agricultural Center. After a short business meeting, Ryan Sendelbach, Hancock Health Department, Jeff Giesige and Curt Tobe, Putnam SWCD, and Jason Phillips, Village of Ottawa, presented short talks on how important the BRWP is to their agency or village.

Three new representatives to the Board of Directors were elected. Theresa Allen, Hardin County, was elected to represent the Headwaters watershed. Don Croy, Ottawa, was elected to represent the Ottawa Creek watershed. Tim Macke, Ottawa, was elected to the At-Large #2 position. Each will serve a three year term.

The BRWP recognized Legacy Farmer’s Cooperative and Vaun Wickerham for their continual support of the Partnership. Tim Brugeman was recognized for his three years as president.

The BRWP reviewed the nearly $950,000 in new grant money that was received in 2015 by the BRWP. The coordinator wrote the grants for local agencies with whom they work. This brings the total grant money that the BRWP has been involved in bringing into the watershed to over $6,000,000.

The BRWP has several projects on the planning board for 2016. The group welcomes community support either through membership or volunteer time. Call Phil Martin, the BRWP coordinator, at 419.422.6487 with any questions.

The BRWP represents the six counties of the Blanchard River Watershed and is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving water quality through developing citizen involvement and watershed action plans. Volunteers are welcome to join activities at any time. Learn more about the Blanchard River on the BRWP website at www.BlanchardRiver.org.