DECATUR, GA

Panola Shoals Riverbank Restoration and Stabilization

South River Watershed Alliance (SRWA) is committed to ecological restoration of the South River for the benefit of nature and people. Cleaner water requires increased awareness and advocacy, stronger protection, and management of our river as a valuable natural resource.

ENGINEERING
SURVEY & MAPPING
CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT

Project Description

The project goal was to reduce erosion and resulting sedimentation of the streambank at Panola Shoals. The objective of this project was to develop a conceptual master plan for a complete buildout of an engineered system that will effectively address the stream bank erosion. The Conceptual Master Plan was used by SRWA as the basis for securing necessary funding from partners, stakeholders, local government, and grants to achieve the project goal.

Sedimentation is a non-point source pollutant that results in the destruction of aquatic and arboreal habitat. Construction sites and deforestation are its most common sources in the South River and Upper Ocmulgee basin. Sediment decimates aquatic wildlife habitat, impedes recreational access, increases the cost of water treatment, and reduces property values. 

Scope of Work

CERM prepared and submitted a concept plan which addressed the stability concerns and provided an environmentally sensitive and aesthetic design. The concept plan included a combination of natural gabion walls, rock retaining walls and anchoring landscape design that would stabilize the bank. The plan also included American with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant access from the South River walking trail down to the river.  CERM’s design also restores the eroded portions of stream bank; prevents future erosion along critical areas near the walking trail and parking lot, while minimizing any negative environmental impacts to the river due to construction. CERM specified locally sourced design materials and construction methods in executing this project to ultimately seek SITES certification.

Project Highlights

  • Environmentally Sensitive Design
  • Surveying
  • Landscape Coordination
  • SITES

Client: South River Watershed Alliance

Market: Water Resources