Blue Creek Restoration In Toledo, OH Repairs Native Ecosystem

Toledo Metroparks

DRG restored a 4,018-foot segment of the Blue Creek Stream in Toledo, OH after an assessment found the area to be eroded, nutrient loaded, and unable to sustain aquatic wildlife.

Project Narrative:

A 4,018-foot segment of Blue Creek within Toledo Metroparks in Whitehouse Township, Ohio was previously surrounded by agriculture. A 2009 assessment by the Ohio EPA revealed the creek to have significant issues with erosion and nutrient loading from agricultural runoff and the stream lacked quality habitat features for aquatic wildlife. To remedy this, Toledo Metroparks received funds from the Surface Water Improvement Fund (SWIF) via the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (Ohio EPA) Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI). DRG was retained by Toledo Metroparks as the design-build contractor for this project.

In 2018, the floodplain and streambank of this creek were restored by DRG in partnership with The Mannik & Smith Group (MSG) and Marks Construction. DRG performed project management, permitting and agency coordination, design development, construction oversight, planting and seeding, and invasive vegetation control. MSG provided initial wetland delineation assessments, implemented site topographic surveys, assisted DRG in design development, performed hydrologic modeling, and developed engineered plans. Marks Construction performed all construction work.

Re-Establishing A Healthy Ecosystem

The restoration plan included realignment of a section of extremely eroded stream; installation of in-stream stabilization and habitat features; excavation of the floodplain; treatment of invasive vegetation; and planting of native seed, live stakes, and bare root woody shrubs and trees. The realigned stream channel provided for stabilization of the channel, improved water quality, and enhanced in-stream habitat. The newly excavated floodplain accommodates flood water surges and provides for water pre-treatment prior to draining into the stream. Native vegetation reduces stream bank erosion and promotes healthy stream ecosystem function. The combination of these efforts has significantly decreased sediment and nutrient loading into the restoration stream.

DRG and Marks Construction have over 13 years of experience working together as a design/build team. During those years, we have successfully completed projects that have provided our clients with durable bank stabilization and restoration, and enhanced in-stream and riparian habitat. DRG and MSG have a successful history of working together for 7 years on numerous restoration projects.

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