West Virginia Success Story

Solar Pump Provides a Clean Water Source

Program or Category: WVCA District Funds

Overview: In 2004, the West Fork Conservation District had funding available to install a solar pumping system within the district. This system would not only benefit the producer, but also be used for demonstration purposes. Rick and Connie Rice, Harrison County, have a 50+ acre strip bench to be used as pasture and stockpiled for winter grazing. The only water source available was a pond along the bottom of the bench, and access to the pond was limited.

Accomplishments: A solar pump was installed in the pond to pipe water approximately 65 feet vertically to a rubber tire water trough. There are two sensors in the trough to control the water level. The landowner provided all manual labor with technical assistance given by the field office staff.

Program Benefits to Landowner: Installation of the solar pump provided a clean water source for the cattle and allowed them to better utilize the pasture. It also reduced soil erosion and improved water quality, aquatic life and the wildlife habitat.

Program Benefits to Community: The solar pumping system is available for demonstration. Other producers who could benefit from a similar system are able to see exactly how the solar pump works.

Contact:
Maria Shriver, (WVCA) Grassland Technician
(304) 624-9232 Ext. 112

Mount Clare Service Center–Serving Doddridge and Harrison Counties
Rt. 2, Box 204-D
Mount Clare, WV 26408
Phone (304) 624-9232 Fax (304) 624-5976
http://www.wv.nrcs.usda.gov/contact/mt_clare.html

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