Crews to Monitor Creek Health in Southeast Durham Starting April 2

Beginning April 2, residents in southeast Durham may notice scientists and engineers wading through local creeks as part of an initiative to assess water quality and identify potential improvements.

Crews from the City of Durham and Durham County will conduct health checks on Stirrup Iron Creek, Brier Creek, and Lick Creek, as well as select ponds and wetlands in the area. This work is part of the Southeast Durham Watershed Improvement Plan, which aims to enhance the health of local waterways through targeted restoration efforts.

Key Details:

• Timeline: April 2 through May 31.
• Creeks and Areas Surveyed: Stirrup Iron Creek, Brier Creek, Lick Creek, ponds, and wetlands.
• Purpose: Identify areas for new stormwater control measures and stream restorations.

The goal of this initiative is to improve water quality for the benefit of both the environment and local communities. Scientists will focus on identifying locations for future stormwater control measures such as constructed wetlands, rain gardens, ponds, filters, and cisterns. These enhancements aim to reduce pollutants and improve water flow, benefiting plants, animals, and humans alike.

“This initiative is a critical step for identifying areas with the potential for water quality projects,” said Raven McLaurin, city watershed restoration engineer, in a news release. “Watershed plans give ever-changing cities and counties a water quality resource to consult when making decisions.”

A Collaborative Effort for Lasting Impact

Durham County Stormwater Manager McKenzie Bradshaw emphasized the importance of collaboration in protecting the region’s waterways.

“This partnership between the City and County allows us to take a comprehensive approach to improving water quality in the region,” Bradshaw said. “By working together, we can develop new projects that benefit both our residents and the environment.”

The southeast Durham watersheds being studied cover approximately 33 square miles and include a mix of suburban, commercial, industrial, rural, and agricultural areas. These creeks are part of the larger Neuse River Basin, which flows into the Pamlico Sound and eventually empties into the Atlantic Ocean. Lick Creek is particularly notable as it feeds into Falls Lake, which serves as Raleigh’s primary source of drinking water.

Community Involvement and Resources

Residents interested in following the progress of this project can visit the project webpage for updates, staff contacts, and a watershed map. Community members can also sign up for updates by emailing watersheds@durhamnc.gov.

The Stormwater Division of the City of Durham Public Works Department is tasked with maintaining city-owned drainage systems, inspecting and designing storm drainage plans, enforcing stormwater regulations, and educating the community about water quality. The division also oversees stream monitoring and restoration projects. For more information, visit the Stormwater Division webpage or follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

The Durham County Stormwater Program enforces the Durham County Stormwater Ordinance in unincorporated areas and manages compliance with nutrient management rules for the Neuse River, Falls Lake, and Jordan Lake. Responsibilities include reviewing development projects, identifying stormwater retrofits, and preventing illicit discharges. The program also conducts education and outreach to promote community awareness and engagement.

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