Charles J. (Chuck) Clanton brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his role as chair of the Vermillion River Watershed Planning Commission (WPC). Clanton, who has been a member of the WPC since 2008, is a professor emeritus at the University of Minnesota’s Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineering, a licensed professional engineer and soil scientist, a member of many professional associations, and a farmer and family man with 150 acres in Hampton Township. The Clanton Family Farm demonstrates a range of best management practices for agricultural operations.  The VRWJPO asked Commissioner Clanton a few key questions about his civic engagement, agricultural focus, and thoughts about the Vermillion River Watershed’s future.

Why did you decide to serve on the WPC?

One of the risks of being in academia is losing touch with the real world. The WPC has allowed me to represent others in agriculture, explaining how agriculture works and the importance of water quality to agribusiness. At the same time, I learn from listening to others discuss their concerns about water quality. This learning has helped others… I have been able to use river-related issues as design projects for University of Minnesota environmental and ecological engineering students.

What important issues do you think the watershed will face in the next few years?

One issue I see is defining how clean is “clean” and how good is “good” [as regards water quality].  I have heard that only … drinkable water should be allowed in the river. On the other extreme, [I have heard] that we should not let the river burn or catch fire. The right answer is somewhere in between. Another issue will be trying to keep all parties with interests that impact the river satisfied and happy.

What role can agricultural producers play in improving water quality and habitat in the watershed?

Agriculture has come a long way in the last century in reducing the amount of sediment, nutrients, and chemicals that enter the river. But more improvements can be made. Producers will need to adopt new technology as it is developed. Tillage practices have drastically changed in the last few decades, almost eliminating primary tillage and moving to conservation and no-till practices. Crop genetics are being changed to adapt to no-till practices with increased insect and disease resistance, increased competitiveness with surface residue, and greater productivity in cooler soils. GPS and GIS have enabled precision agriculture, which allows producers to adjust plant populations; apply very specific amounts of fertilizer as needed by each acre; and apply crop protection products through nozzles that cycle on or off depending on weed or insect density, while avoiding areas such as buffer strips and waterways. All of this reduces the risk of possible contamination of surface waters. Even with these advances, producers need to be… proactive about explaining the methods they choose, especially since more… people are removed from production agriculture.

How does the watershed maintain a balance between urban expansion and preserving farmland?

In this region, we are blessed with thriving, growing communities and a vibrant agricultural base with a deep history. To coexist and allow both to succeed, we must continue to communicate and collaborate. The WPC provides one arena for that ongoing dialogue.