On his property along Parker Creek, Jon Filarsky faced a rapidly worsening problem that threatened both his land and the surrounding watershed. Severe gully erosion was cutting deep into the soil, destabilizing the landscape, and carrying tons of sediment downstream. Left unchecked, the damage would only accelerate—prompting Jon to seek out conservation solutions.
About the project
Severe gully erosion was causing significant soil loss—up to 25 feet over five years—on Jon Filarsky’s land, sending sediment downstream into Parker Creek. To address this, a conservation design was prepared, contractor bids obtained, and funding secured for implementation.
The solution
- Custom-designed rock structures were designed and installed to withstand a 10-year storm event
- Two rock-lined waterways (75 ft and 47 ft) control water flow and dissipate energy in the swale.
- Stabilized slopes were seeded with deep-rooted cool-season grasses
The results
- Halted ongoing erosion and head cutting
- Protected valuable land and local waterways
- Created a healthy, stable landscape for the future
Partners
LANDOWNER – JON FILARSKY
St. Croix LWCD
DATCP - Funding
Pollution Reduction
Nitrogen: 895 LB/YR
Phosphorus: 344 LB/YR
Sediment: 559 TONS/YR
Watershed
Parker Creek
Completion date
September 18, 2024