Cinnamon Creek Riparian Project- Vienna, VA

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Immediately after restoration of Cinnamon Creek, April 2001
(photo courtesy of Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District)

What was done and why?

Streambank erosion is common along urban streams- along Wolf Trap Run bank erosion problems were compounded by footbridge pilings directing flow of water at and further undercutting banks. A stabilization project was implemented during a two-day community seminar on urban stream restoration. Bioengineering techniques, such as biologs , willow stakes and fascines, were used to stabilize the existing banks along with installation of log revetments and flow deflectors. Seedlings with tree shelters were then planted to improve the riparian buffer zone and improve infiltration for storm runoff.

Who was involved?

Participants in the restoration workshop and field installation included members of the Cinnamon Creek Homeowners Association and local conservation organizations. The project was a collaboration between the Virginia Dept of Forestry, the Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District, Ducks Unlimited, the NRCS, and the homeowners association.

Where can I see the results of the project?

Contact the Virginia Department of Forestry or the Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District. You can also see more information on a related project stabilization project on Cinnamon Creek- visit the NVSWCD webpage

Why is this a model project?

In addition to implementing self-sustaining bank stabilization, this project formally educated homeowners, landscapers, and conservation organizations about urban stream restoration. Participants in the workshop then put their new skills and knowledge into practice with the field installation.

Contact

Brooke Hassett, Department of Biology, University of Maryland
(301) 405-3799
bhassett@umd.edu

Dr. Margaret Palmer, Department of Entomology and Department of Biology, University of Maryland
(301)405-3795
mpalmer@umd.edu
©2005 National River Restoration Science Synthesis