Swannanoa River enhancement at Veterans Park

The Town of Black Mountain recently completed a 2,000 linear foot enhancement project on the Swannanoa River through their park in eastern Buncombe County. Headwaters’ design focused on five work areas where bank erosion was threatening park facilities on the south bank and a sanitary sewer main on the north bank. Excess sediment was also impacting habitat for a population of Eastern hellbender salamanders. Five hellbenders were rescued and relocated a short distance upstream of the project reach. Montreat College, the landowner on the north bank, was a key partner in the project. Funding was provided by a variety of sources, including grants from the NC Division of Water Resources and Duke Energy. Construction was performed by Baker Grading of Old Fort, NC.