Waterways constitute Branch Brook Park’s most important ecological resource and one of its most important historic attributes. Historically, the Olmsted firm envisioned Branch Brook Park’s continuous waterway system as its aesthetic spine. Over the years, the system has become stagnant and polluted, partially filled in, and subject to reduced water flow.
Restoration of this natural system is critical to the Branch Brook Park Alliance’s plans to preserve Branch Brook Park and catalyze the economic development of the surrounding residential community. Restoration of the waterways and the riparian buffer will not only improve the appearance and increase public use and enjoyment of the park, but also benefit the local and regional ecosystem by improving water quality, lowering nutrients and sedimentation, increasing oxygen and improving the trophic level both in the watercourse and the watershed.
A healthy watercourse will support a wider diversity of aquatic life and improve habitats for flora and fauna in the park. The restored waterways will also have the potential to support environmental education activities along with increased opportunities for bird watching, fishing and boating.
Ecosystem Services Provided:
Water Protection, Filtration, & Control: Water quality and quantity- protection of groundwater recharge areas, restoration of stream buffers and watershed
Outreach, Recreation & Aesthetics: Public access- access to waterfront with associated recreational activities; Environmental education
Total Project Cost: $281,000 for the feasibility study
CRI has provided funding for this project through its Franklin Parker Small Grants program: $4,000 in 2008, and $2,500 in 2009.
Status: A waterway feasibility study is currently underway. The Branch Brook Park Alliance will also be seeking additional funds for full restoration of the waterway.
If you would like further information about this project, please contact Conservation Resources Inc.
