Genetta Stream Restoration

For centuries, Genetta Ditch formed a large, sinuous drainage channel within the urban landscape of southern Montgomery, Alabama. In the 1960’s, a portion of the ditch was converted to a concrete channel to coincide with the construction of Interstate 65. Recent developments in urban stormwater management, however, required improvement of the ecological function of this reach. While the concrete channel conveyed stormwater flows, it did not contribute to water quality or aquatic habitat. There was also deterioration of the concrete channel especially at its terminus.

The project design included retrofitting a portion of an existing concrete box culvert, diverting flow into a constructed wetland complex. It also included restoration/naturalization of nearly 3,000 feet of stream contained in a concrete-lined channel. The goal of the project was to restore habitat functionality while maintaining compliance with the National Flood Insurance Program Base Flood Elevations. The scope also included protection of both I-65 and the 36-inch diameter sanitary sewer that runs parallel to the channel.

The project established demonstration sites to help evaluate water quality protection and economic benefits of natural “green infrastructure” practices. This approach contrasted with traditional hard-engineered, storm water containment and conveyance systems. The project demonstrated innovative restoration/naturalization techniques applicable to urban streams and storm water conveyances in densely developed urban settings.

Highlights

• Green Infrastructure
• Habitat optimization for target species incorporated into the iterative design process