Sand Creek Channel Restoration and Bank Stabilization

Confluence completed the restoration of 3,400 feet of Sand Creek for the exclusive Sand Creek Golf Course and development. Designs were developed to remedy severe bank erosion and channel incision problems caused by channelization and increased storm water runoff. The unique design utilized a combination of bioengineered stream banks and natural riffle grade controls to meet the project objectives of integrating wildlife habitat with golf course architecture. Planform and bedform diversity were incorporated into the finished stream channel to provide spawning habitat for steelhead and improve the aesthetics of the stream as a water feature for the course. HEC-2 analysis was used to guide the engineering of bank stabilization measures and to ensure that flooding was not increased on the course. Portions of the project were constructed in the fall of 1996, with the remainder completed in May, 1997. Today, Sand Creek is a focal point of Sand Creek golf course and the surrounding community. In recognition of this achievement, the project received a competitive environmental award from the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America. Reconstruction of Sand Creek through a badly eroded golf course fairway

Bank erosion along Sand Creek contributed sediment to the stream and threatened golf course greens and infrastructure Bioengineering was used to stablize the banks and allow native grasses and wildflowers to become established Just six months after completion, Sand Creek is now a maintenance-free amenity for the golf course