August 16, 2024
SGI, Adams County Conservation District, partner for stream improvement project
A branch of water near SGI’s Charmian Plant in Blue Ridge Summit will soon be more hospitable to the fish and macroinvertebrates that call it home.
SGI, a Standard Industries company, is partnering with the Adams County Conservation District (ACCD) to complete a stream improvement project in Hamiltonban Township later this month. The project will take place along 200 linear feet of Toms Creek on private property to stabilize the stream bank, improve stream flow, and protect the structural integrity of the G. Donald McLaughlin Memorial Covered Bridge that spans 75 feet to cross the stream.
“We are happy to collaborate with the conservation district and supply rock from our nearby Charmian Plant for this important project,” said SGI President Justin P. Dunlap. “We know this stream project will have a positive impact on local wildlife and our community for many years to come.”
The selected location is a good example of how contemporary stream restoration can enhance even high-quality streams. The design features the installation of several engineered in-stream structures made of native rock sourced from SGI’s Charmian Plant. Together, the modifications will control stream velocity and flowpath, stabilize stream bank erosion and provide an improved habitat for other aquatic species.
“The Adams County Conservation District is grateful for SGI’s partnership on this project,” said Community Clean Water Action Plan Coordinator Ricky Whitmore. “This project is a great example of how public and private partnerships can work together to improve our environment.”
Stream restoration will begin at the end of the month and will take two to three weeks to complete. Toms Creek is a high-quality watershed classified as a tributary of the Monocacy River. From the Monocacy River, it becomes part of the Potomac Watershed, flowing into the Chesapeake Bay and, eventually, into the Atlantic Ocean.