2012 Annual Report 1a.Objectives (from AD-416): Principal focus of the Conservation Effects Assessment Project (CEAP) Watershed Studies is to evaluate the effects and benefits of conservation practices at the watershed scale, in support of policy decisions and program implementation. 1b.Approach (from AD-416): The effects of conservation activities on water and soil quality will be assessed at the watershed scale using models such as ARS’ Soil and Water Assessment Tool, in combination with ARS long-term watershed data sets, expertise, and resources. 3.Progress Report: Development of technology to assess ephemeral gully erosion processes was incorporated within the Annualized Agricultural Non-Point Source Pollution model (AnnAGNPS). Datasets were developed for the CEAP-Benchmark Goodwin Creek Watershed for identification of existing gullies and runoff and sediment loads. Precipitation and runoff data collected from the Goodwin Creek Watershed were also used in the simulations. Evaluations were made on the effect of conservation practices on erosion from sheet and rill and gully sources. Additional CEAP watersheds were identified for further evaluation of gully erosion sources. These research results are critical to NRCS in developing effective management plans that include all sources of sediment and where on the landscape erosion-control practices need to be implemented to protect downstream habitat and water quality. Progress was documented through reports and invited presentations at the ARS CEAP-WAS Annual Meeting held in Ft. Worth, Texas, in July 2012.