The Solebury Messenger

Aquetong Spring Park Progress

Aquetong Spring Park development is moving forward, as work is under way to stabilize the bed and banks of the newly-established stream. The warmer-than-average winter, spring modifications to the governor's essential businesses list, and the diligence of contractor Land-Tech Enterprises have kept the project mostly on schedule through the pandemic.

C. Robert Wynn Associates and Princeton Hydro, the engineers on the project, have carefully monitored the stream from Aquetong Spring as it winds its way back to a natural path, and determined that some skilled intervention was needed to help the stream along.

Step pools, constructed of large logs wrapped with geotextiles, help calm the stream flow.

The restoration project involves bracing sections of the stream to prevent erosion and reduce sediment in the water and along the stream bed. Plantings along the banks will help stabilize the riparian buffer.

Step pools are being constructed along four stream locations, using large logs assembled in stacks and wrapped with geotextiles (pictured at right). Additional grading along the stream will help expand the floodway. The project is focused on four major areas: two along the tributary from Fox Run and two larger areas along the main stream.

Native trees and shrubs will be added to provide shade and help maintain the water temperature at a level suitable for local brook trout. The project includes building underwater structures from logs and root balls to enhance the natural fish habitat. All together these measures will provide overhead cover and resting areas for the trout while helping to stabilize the bank.

The stream restoration project has secured all necessary approvals from the Pa. Department of Environmental Protection and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The project is funded by a $250,000 grant from the Pa. Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, with an equal match from the Township. Additional grants for the project are provided by the Pa. Department of Community and Economic Development and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation.