Document Type
Paper
Abstract
As land uses change over time, from wetlands and forests to agricultural fields, suburban neighborhoods, and commercial areas, stormwater runoff increases in volume and moves more rapidly into nearby streams. This altered hydrology conveys pollutants directly to local waterways and increases erosion, resulting in deeply entrenched channels with steep banks lacking vegetation. Plaster Creek, located near Grand Rapids, MI, is an example of such an impaired stream, having become channelized and separated from adjacent floodplain habitat along much of its 26-mile length. As part of a Michigan EGLE 319 grant, Plaster Creek Stewards, an initiative of Calvin University, used nature-based engineering solutions to restore the reach of Plaster Creek through Dutton Shadyside Park to a more natural condition. Installation of two log vanes and 89,349 ft2 of floodplain creation with native plants were used to restore 1,750 LF of creek through the park to reduce downstream flooding, bank erosion, and sedimentation to improve the aquatic habitat of the stream. Before and after construction, longitudinal and cross-sectional surveys and a BANCS assessment (including BEHI and NBS) were conducted. Additionally, water flow was monitored throughout the project and anecdotal accounts were collected by volunteers, residents, and park users. Five years after completion, the stream was assessed to quantify changes in channel shape, stability, and ecology. Results demonstrated significant improvements in cross-section stability and erosion reduction with BEHI ratings changing from “very high” before construction to “low” after project completion, and NBS ratings changing from “extreme” to “very low” and “low” over the same time, resulting in a 98% reduction in erosion potential. However, one high unvegetated bank exists with active erosion near the downstream end of the project. Flood attenuation was confirmed by photo documentation, stream measurements, and anecdotes from neighbors. Biodiversity was enhanced, though not quantified.
Publication Date
9-2023
Recommended Citation
Wildschut, Julie; Lubberts, Andrea; Warners, David P.; and Weesies, Haley, "Evaluation and description of nature-based engineering stream restoration through Dutton Shadyside Park" (2023). Faculty and Professional Research. 15.
https://digitalcommons.calvin.edu/pcs_peer-reviewed/15