Campus Stream Restoration Projects
Chapel Creek Stream Restoration Project
Old golf cart bridge fallen into Chapel Creek
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The
North Carolina Ecosystem Enhancement Program (EEP) has signed an agreement with UNC to undertake the ecological restoration of approximately 1,400 linear feet of stream channel and approximately 5 acres of riparian buffer restoration along Chapel Creek on an unused portion of the old Finley Golf Course within Chapel Hill, North Carolina. At this time the creek channel is deeply incised and contributes sediment during high flow events. A new channel will be constructed for a portion of the creek and bankfull benches will be created in some areas. The new channel design will allow the creek to access its floodplain again, and the channel will allow the stream to meander in a natural way.
Chapel Creek stream restoration. Click to open a larger view.
The area will be monitored by EEP for five years after project completion to ensure that the new stream channel and vegetation are stable. The project is intended to improve water quality and provide educational opportunities in stream restoration processes. The actual construction of the project is scheduled to begin in 2008.
Morgan Creek Floodplain Restoration Project
Aerial photograph of proposed Morgan Creek stream resoration site. Click to open a larger view.
UNC and the EEP Program have signed an agreement that will allow the EEP to conduct a feasibility study for the ecological restoration of approximately 20 acres of floodplain and 2,300 feet of stream enhancement along Morgan Creek on a portion of The Mason Farm Biological Preserve within Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
The project is intended to re-establish floodplain functions along a portion of Morgan Creek on the Mason Farm property. The project effort will include removing portions of the existing berm along the southern boundary of Morgan Creek. This project will also include stream enhancement practices by planting a vegetated riparian buffer along one side of Morgan Creek adjacent to the floodplain being restored.
The feasibility study is nearly complete, and a decision is pending on the final design for the berm removal.
Purpose of These Projects
These projects will be two of many implemented within the Morgan Creek/Little Creek Local Watershed Planning area. These projects are intended to promote the public's knowledge and understanding of the natural resources of this state-owned property as well as promote the public's understanding of the purpose of stream and riparian enhancement and floodplain restoration.
Environment, Health & Safety | 1120 Estes Drive Extension, CB#1650 | Chapel Hill, NC 27599
Phone 919-962-5507 | Fax 919-962-0227 |
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