BY PRESTON MILES

CREEC

Interested Parties Meet to Discuss Clarks Run Study

Clarks Run Environmental Education Corporation hosted a public meeting on Earth Day 2021, Thursday, April 22, to explain a project made possible by a grant from Kentucky River Authority.  The main goals of the project are to identify, evaluate, and recommend potential best management practices (BMPs) to improve water quality and habitat in Clarks Run; to reduce the impact of urban development on Clarks Run; and to provide education about BMP and stromwater impacts.

Josh Morgan, Danville City Engineer, along with the principal project consultants, Eric Dawalt of Ridgewater, Inc., and Sam Lee and John Ewing of Stantec, Inc., summarized how urban and agricultural development can change the flow behavior of a stream, which then leads to erosion, flooding, and habitat loss.   

Participating in the meeting were representatives from Danville City Commission, Danville Public Works, The Garden Club of Danville, D/BC Trails Alliance, Centre Environmental Association, Shire Environmental, Danville Water Treatment, D/BC Parks and Recreation, D/BC Planning Commission, Bluegrass Greensource, Alexis Amorese Sheffield, horticulturist from Boyle County Extension office and additional community members. Participants walked along the creek, recognizing problem issues such as bank erosion and invasive, non-native plant species, while also identifying prospects for aesthetic improvements and recreational opportunities.

Periodic summaries and final reports on the BMPs identified, along with cost estimates and potential funding sources, will be available to the general public through the CREEC website, www.clarksrun.info.