Description: A Water Control Structure means a permanent structure placed in a farm canal, ditch, or subsurface drainage conduit (drain tile or tube), which provides control of the stage or discharge of surface and/or subsurface drainage. The management mechanism on the structure may be flashboards, gates, valves, risers, or pipes.

The primary purpose of the water control structure is to improve water quality by elevating the water table and reducing drainage outflow. A secondary purpose is to restore hydrology in riparian buffers to the extent practical. Elevating the water table promotes denitrification and lower nitrate levels in drainage water from cropping systems and minimizes the effects of short-circuiting of drainage systems passing through riparian buffers. Other benefits may include reduced pollution from other dissolved and sediment-attached substances, reduced downstream sedimentation, and reduced storm water surges of fresh water into estuarine area.

This practice is not intended to be used to control water inflow from tidal influence (i.e., no tide gates).

Water Control Structure Policy
Requirements for all Sediment and Nutrient Management Measures.
General Policies for Commission Cost Share Programs

Maintenance Period: 10 years

Additional Spot Check Requirements: None

BMP Units: Each
Cost Information: Average cost (75% or 90%). Refer to ACSP Average Cost Lists for details.

CS2 Project Description examples

Expected Results: 
Acres affected - (drainage area)
Nitrogen saved
Phosphorus saved

Reference Materials: 
NC-ACSP-11 Signature Page
Map with BMP location, fields, and roads
For 90% Cost share, please upload the NC-CSPs-1E form.
Water Control Structure Form

JAA:
NRCS – 587 – Structures for Water Control – flash board riser
NRCS – 378 – Pond – in-line structures

NRCS Supporting Standard
NRCS – 554 – Drainage Water Management

Refer to the SWCC JAA Application Requirements for details.

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