We are also investigating the possibility of bringing several culverted creeks above ground to provide neighborhoods with a natural amenity that encourages more diverse plant and animal life. Improving the environmental quality of land around existing creeks is also important. If creek banks are eroding, sediment is washed into the water and interferes with plant and animal habitat. Use of pesticides and herbicides near waterways sends poisons directly into our watersheds, and excessive mowing keeps grasses from filtering pollutants. CBE is providing the technical assistance needed to make sure the land near creeks is treated in a manner that protects rather than harms watershed quality.
Wetlands play a key role in keeping watersheds clean.
The plants and soil in wetlands help filter pollutants out of rain water or snow melt before they go into rivers and lakes. Parking lots, roads and other hard surfaces add to watershed pollution. When the ground is covered by impenetrable surfaces water has no where to go it simply slides along picking up pollutants as it makes its way into a storm sewer. CBE is working with neighborhood decision-makers to promote planning and development that preserve and restore wetlands. Be aware of the zoning, landscaping and planning decisions being made in your community and work to get involved.