(2008) Ward Branch Watershed - 319 Project

Scope

The Ward Branch sub-watershed, a tributary of the James River, experienced rapid urban development over the previous 20 years. As a result, stream channel erosion threatened homes, utilities, and bridges, and posed an unsightly and costly maintenance problem. Sediment eroded from stream channels contributed to pollution problems in both the James River and Table Rock Lake located downstream.

Stream restoration protocol emphasizes the use of bioengineering techniques addressing fluvial geomorphic processes as a sound management tool for stabilizing urban streams. However, these techniques must be adapted to local conditions, and local consultants and contractors must understand when and where to install these practices. This project was the first in this area that brought together a local interdisciplinary team of experts to develop and design appropriate bioengineering techniques to stabilize an urban stream in the Ozarks region.

Objectives

1. Develop, install, and monitor alternative stream stabilization techniques for urbanizing Ozarks stream,
2. Evaluate stream stabilization techniques based on cost, availability of materials, and effectiveness, and
3. Educate area residents, developers, contractors, and community leaders on the importance of stream channel erosion in the transport of nutrients linked to water quality in the James River Basin

Partners

• City of Springfield
• Missouri Conservation Department
• Missouri Department of Natural Resources
• Greene County
• Missouri State University
• Ozark Greenways
• Watershed Committee of the Ozarks

Documents

• Pre-Construction Report [.pdf]
• Post-Construction (Final) Report [.pdf]
• Informational Pamphlet [.pdf]
• Watershed Map [.pdf]
• Planform Map [.pdf]
• Stations 0 - 500 ft [.pdf]
• Stations 500 - 1000 ft [.pdf]
• Stations 1000 - 1500 ft [.pdf]
• Stations 1500 - 2000 ft [.pdf]

Project Funding

Missouri Department of Natural Resources

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region VII - Section 319