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The Perdido Creek Restoration project, involving partners like Dr. Sam Eichold and various environmental agencies, aims to restore the natural meandering stream channel, improve local fisheries, and enhance wetland wildlife habitat. Key objectives include restoring hydrology in bordering wetlands and preventing head-cutting in the area. The restoration plan comprises steps such as patching old stream channels, installing root wads, and creating blockage structures. Future projects may extend to Shades Creek and Swift Creek, contributing to Alabama's ecological health.
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Partners • Dr. Sam Eichold • Natural Resources Conservation Service • Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources • Thrift Construction Co. • Corps of Engineers • Fish and Wildlife Service
Project Objectives • Restore the natural meandering stream channel • Restore hydrology in the bordering wetlands • Improve stream fishery and wetland wildlife habitat • Prevent further head-cutting above restoration area • Create oxbow ponds in channelized stream
Perdido Creek Before and After Perdido Creek after Plugging Channelized Creek Creek Channel Prior to Excavation
Preliminary Steps in Restoration of Perdido Creek • Get signed agreement with the landowner to construct the work • Plan and coordinate project with agencies and experts • Obtain permits and SHPO clearance • Meet with Contractors • Have the landowner select the contractor
Steps in Restoration of Perdido Creek • Patch all portions of old stream channel • Install root wads and J hooks prior to diversion stream • Restore all stream segments filled with sediment • Excavate the old stream channel on the upper end • Install sheet piling and create blockage structure to divert the stream • Utilize onsite trees and branches to provide bank stability • Create 4 additional blockage structures • Seed and mulch all exposed soil
Reaches Filled with Sediment were Excavated with a Small Track hoe
Before Excavation of Channel After Channel Construction Perdido Creek Upper Plug
Blockage Structure Seeded, Mulched, Limed and Fertilized January 31, 2001 February 22, 2002
Other Possible Future Projects • Shades Creek near Birmingham • Tributary to the Cahaba River • Swift Creek near Autaugaville • Tributary to Neely Henry Reservoir on the Alabama River