Streambank Stabilization and Water Quality Improvement Project Advancing

HARRISBURG –The Lake Wallenpapack Watershed Management District will be able to significantly reduce pollutants and nutrients entering Roamingwood Lake, Ariel Creek, and ultimately Lake Wallenpaupack, thanks to a $200,000 Watershed Restoration Protection Program grant from the state.

Lake Wallenpaupack Watershed Management District Executive Director Nick Spinelli welcomed the funding, which he says will help cover the cost of the $343,000 project.

“It’s vitally important that we continue to reduce nutrient loading to the lake,” Spinelli said. “We’ve been working with The Hideout for a number of years to cooperatively address water quality improvements that are aligned with our Watershed Management Plan. This effort will accomplish these goals.”

Steep slopes and uncontrolled stormwater runoff along Ridgeview Drive have been occurring and negatively impacting nearby Roamingwood Lake. This project will divert the stormwater to an adjacent, undeveloped lot in The Hideout. A device will be installed to treat a portion of the stormwater. Work is expected to begin as early as January and should last about two years.

“By properly managing stormwater and stabilizing the eroded soils, we’re able to make a measurable improvement to the water flowing into Roamingwood Lake,” Spinelli said. “This corrective action will improve water quality and will be mutually beneficial for residents of the Hideout, downstream neighbors along Ariel Creek, and Lake Wallenpaupack.

Senator Lisa Baker (R-20th) and Rep. Jonathan Fritz (R-111th) both applauded the efforts to improve water quality  in the region.

Fritz believes the project is a good use of state dollars. “These funds will provide relief from storm water runoff for Lake Township residents,” he said. “I am pleased to see resources returning to our community for such a worthwhile project.”

Baker said it is increasingly clear that controlling stormwater runoff is an effective way to improve water quality. “Projects such as this help mitigate the impact that development has on streams and lakes important to the quality of life in our area,” she added. “Combining public and private money allows for larger projects with greater environmental benefits.”

Contact:

Andrew M. Seder
aseder@pasen.gov
(570) 226-5960

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