Streambank Protection and Trout Stream Improvement Project Brochure (pdf 2,838 k)

Work began in December 2002 to help stabilize 1,000 feet of eroding stream bank in Seven Mile Creek Park. The project demonstrated alternative techniques to slow bank erosion while at the same time helped to increase habitat for brown trout. The main purpose of this project was to protect the bridge just upstream of the kiosk by diverting erosive flows away from the stream bank. The second purpose was to demonstrate alternative techniques for stream bank protection and fish habitat restoration. The project was designed to help create deeper pools to enhance brown trout habitat.

In order to create deeper pools and reduce streambank erosion, three rock j-hooks and 2 rock cross-vanes were added (more on stream structures). Root-wads were placed to reshape the streambank. Changes to the grade of the stream bank were finished in order to eliminate some bank soil erosion.

Vegetation including willows, broadleaf trees, and native grasses were planted along the creek in 2003. Over 200 trees, 750 willows cuttings, and 5,000 prairie grasses and flowers were planted. Funding for this project was secured through the Seven Mile Creek Watershed Clean Water Partnership, Alliance Pipeline administrated by Nicollet County Public Works, and shoreline habitat trout stamp money administered through Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.