White Clay Creek Floodplain Restoration and Reconnection

Located in Chester County Pennsylvania, just downstream of the Stroud Water Research Center (SWRC), a small segment of the East Branch White Clay Creek, designated as an Exceptional Value (EV) stream and watershed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, was selected as a location for the implementation of a floodplain wetland restoration and reconnection project. The project reach extends downstream from the Spencer Road across properties owned by the SWRC, the Stroud family, and neighboring landowners. This particular stretch of stream had been historically straightened for agricultural purposes, and exhibited signs of geomorphic instability such as re-meandering, incision, and widening due to bank erosion. Additionally, this section is part of a long-term research project in environmental biology conducted by SWRC and funded by the National Science Foundation.

The strategic design, hydrologic and hydraulic analyses, and site evaluations resulted in a design which in addition to grading, utilized the natural topographic controls, such as bedrock and confluences, enabled the filling of the newly constructed floodplain prior to flood peaks. This proactive approach helped to mitigate erosion associated with bank overtopping and the confluence of floodwaters, contributing to the overall reduction of potential risks. All disturbed areas were planted and seeded with native floodplain and upland species to stabilize the site and promote a healthy native plant community. Unique to this project, The material excavated from the floodplain was placed and spread on adjacent actively farmed fields thus utilizing the legacy sediments for future agricultural production.

The incorporation of naturalized, function-based restoration design principles, a hallmark of Princeton Hydro’s expertise, played a central role in restoring and enhancing floodplain function in this context. The successful implementation of the project relied on a delicate balance of considering the maximization of ecological benefits and potential reduction in localized flooding, all within the constraints of realistic funding availability and regulatory compliance.