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Transplanting willow plants to the bank of Sand Creek is a major aspect of habitat restoration for the bank project near the confluence of Westerly Creek
The repair to the bank of Sand Creek at the bridge near Westerly Creek and the Smith Road trailhead is nearly complete, with reseeding of native plants and the transplantation of willow taking place right now.
We returned from a brief visit to that part of the Denver section of the Greenway, and found workers nearly done with the willows.
This was a large effort by Denver to strengthen the bridge over Sand Creek near the confluence of Westerly Creek. High water and flood events had altered the stability of the creek bank, which was endangering the long-term viability of the bridge. Water eroded the bank, and widened the creek.
Now that the construction work has been completed, welcome changes have been put in place. The Creek has a more natural-looking path, and the steep cliff-like bank has been replaced by a gradual, more welcoming approach to the water. Gone are the banks of large rocks held back by wire fencing, and as the new plants take hold, the area will be safer and easier for trail users to access the creek.
Our thanks to Denver Public Works and Denver Parks and Recreation for your hard work on this effort to strengthen and preserve our Sand Creek and Greenway.
An image of the bank by the bridge before work took place:
