Tennessee Stram Mitigation Program

Project Description

The Friar's Branch Restoration Project includes approximately 6,920 linear feet of Friar Branch and two of its tributaries (Poe Branch and an unnamed tributary). Friar's Branch is on Tennessee’s 2008 303(d) list for numerous impairments. Previous channelization, dredging, realignment and straightening have converted the natural stream channel into a man-made concrete ditch. These activities have destroyed most of the natural functions of the stream corridor. The primary goals of this restoration project are to reduce bank erosion, replace concrete channel with a natural channel, and improve aquatic and riparian habitat. Long-term recovery of riparian functions will be facilitated through native plantings and invasive non-native plant removal. Restoration of natural channel patterns, removal of concrete channel, and establishing a riparian buffer will contribute to water quality and aquatic habitat improvements within the watershed. Changes in bedform diversity, such as creation of riffles and pools, will enhance natural water column oxygenation processes and contribute to overall improvement in water quality and habitat diversity.

This project is about to start construction. 

Before