In the wake of Hurricane Helene, the riparian corridor along Sweeten Creek suffered significant damage—from bank erosion and sediment loss to the uprooting of native vegetation critical for water quality and habitat stability. We reached out to Ashley Haywood to help us assess what we needed to do, and how best to get there.
We look a little ragged in this beginning stage, but, it’s going to be incredible as it gets established.
Why the Riparian Zone Matters
Riparian zones are the green ribbons of life that border our waterways. They filter runoff, stabilize streambanks, support wildlife, and help prevent flooding. At Sweeten Creek, these natural buffers play a vital role in protecting both ecological health and downstream communities. At our building, this was disrupted well before the hurricane just with modern landscaping. When the hurricane ripped through it really highlighted the need to restore the creek to it’s natural state.
Our Recovery Plan
Post-Helene, we’ve launched a multi-phase restoration project focused on:
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Erosion control: Installing coir logs, live staking, and biodegradable erosion control matting to stabilize the creek banks.
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Revegetation with natives: Replanting native species like silky dogwood, elderberry, river birch, and sedges to rebuild root networks and habitat.
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Invasive species management: Removing aggressive invaders like multiflora rose and Japanese knotweed that often exploit disturbed areas.
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Community involvement: We have been fortunate to get some help from Riverlink – both monetary and sweat equity!
Restoring a riparian zone takes time, patience, and ongoing monitoring—but with each native plant we return to the soil, we’re strengthening the resilience of Sweeten Creek for the future. We hope to be able to bring this concept to other land owners along Sweeten Creek road and possibly make a real difference.
Thank you to everyone who has lent their time, expertise, or voice to this effort. If you’d like to get involved or learn more, reach out or join us!
