Wolf Creek - Phase II

Stream Restoration of Wolf Creek - Phase II

Purpose:

Roanoke County has been assigned a “Total Maximum Daily Load” (TMDL) for sediment for the Roanoke River. Wolf Creek, a tributary of the Roanoke River, is experiencing heavy bank erosion that is delivering high sediment loads to the Roanoke River. This project will employ natural stream restoration techniques to reduce this bank erosion.

Description of work:

The project consists of the restoration/stabilization of portions of Wolf Creek as it flows alongside the Wolf Creek Greenway in Roanoke County. The project extent encompasses the portion of the creek that flows from approximately 1,600 feet upstream of Spring Grove Road to the culvert underneath Spring Grove Road. The length of the project is approximately 1,600 feet.

The work will involve the use of bank stabilization techniques based on bio-engineering using slope stabilization technology and deep-rooted woody vegetation to ensure long-term stability of the streambank soil. Some banks will be laid back at a lesser slope, some sharp meanders (or bends) in the creek will be re-aligned. Coir matting will be installed on graded slopes, followed by the installation of woody vegetation to help hold the soil in place.

Cost (state/local):

The total cost of this project is $700,000. Roanoke County received $350,000 in grant funding through Virginia’s Stormwater Local Assistance Fund (SLAF), which is administered by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). The County will provide matching funds in the amount of $350,000 through its General Revenue (Capital Improvement Program for FY 2022 and FY2023).

Anticipated schedule:

This project is expected to begin in the fall of 2022 with a duration of approximately 6 months.

Project Impacts:

  During Construction - The Wolf Green Greenway, which runs the entire length of the project, will be temporarily relocated around the        work.

  After construction - Trees will be saved to the extent possible; however there will be some loss of trees. Once the project is complete,      the site will be re-vegetated with native plants and shrubs; trees will naturally reestablish themselves. It is anticipated that a healthy            plant/shrub cover will be fully established within several years; however, it will take more time for mature trees to become established.

Project Benefits:

• Reduce bank erosion

• Improve habitat for aquatic and terrestrial wildlife

• Improve access to the creek

For More Information, Contact:                                                                                                                                                                          David M. Henderson, P.E.                                                                                                                                                                                    County Engineer                                                                                                                                                                                                  Telephone: 540.772.2083                                                                                                                                                                                    Fax: 540.776.7155