If every neighbor takes responsibility for the rainwater falling on his or her property, using the methods mentioned above, a lot of neighbor to neighbor tension can be avoided. On a community level, the way we handle stormwater, by channeling it straight into the creek rather than putting it to use, greatly increases destructive flooding, and has a devastating effect on aquatic life. The unusual combination of woods and fields is particularly attractive for creating trails and wildlife habitat. Another possibility is to develop a small farm for school field trips, including hay rides, farm animals and a pumpkin patch. The great feedback we get on our wetland gardens in Indian Trail Park suggests that these plantings could beautify other lowland parks as well, e.g. Northgate Park and Forest Hills Park.
Most land conservancies focus on preserving large, rural tracts.
That leaves an urban land trust like ECWA to save relatively small undeveloped parcels in the city. As we quickly grow into this role, grant research and writing, fundraising and contacting landowners become increasingly vital activities. Donations of any size are greatly appreciated and fully tax deductible. Large, prairie-like landscapes exist on the east and west ends of Durham, in the Ellerbe Creek watershed. ECWA is fighting to save these special places as safe, exhilarating places to walk, and habitat for rare plants and birds.