DURHAM, N.C. – Beginning April 2 through May 31, City of Durham and Durham County scientists and engineers will perform health checks of select creeks, and residents may see them wading through Stirrup Iron, Brier and Lick Creeks in addition to ponds and wetlands in Southeast Durham.

What You Need to Know

• Crews to wade through Stirrup Iron, Brier and Lick Creeks April 2 – May 31.
• Goal: improve water quality throughout Durham.
• Experts will identify places for new stormwater control measures and stream restorations

The Southeast Durham Watershed Improvement Plan tasks crews to visit places where untreated stormwater runoff flows to larger bodies of water. These experts will identify locations for new stormwater control measures such as ponds, filters, constructed wetlands, rain gardens or cisterns. The goal is to improve water quality for humans, animals and plants.

“This initiative is a critical step for identifying areas with the potential for water quality projects,” said City Watershed Restoration Engineer Raven McLaurin. “Watershed plans give ever-changing cities and counties a water quality resource to consult when making decisions.”

Durham County Stormwater Manager McKenzie Bradshaw emphasized the importance of teamwork to enhance watershed health. “This partnership between the City and County allows us to take a comprehensive approach to improving water quality in the region,” said Bradshaw. “By working together, we can develop new projects that benefit both our residents and the environment.”

These southeast Durham watersheds cover approximately 33 square miles in a mix of suburban, commercial, industrial, rural and agricultural areas. The watersheds are part of the Neuse River Basin, which flows into the Pamlico Sound and empties into the Atlantic Ocean. Lick Creek also feeds into Falls Lake, Raleigh’s primary drinking water source.

Visit the project webpage for staff contacts, project status, and a watershed map. Email watersheds@DurhamNC.gov to sign up for project updates.

About the City of Durham Public Works Department Stormwater Division

The Stormwater Division with the City of Durham Public Works Department is responsible for storm drainage design and plans review; inspecting and maintaining City-owned drainage systems; enforcing stormwater ordinances and regulations; education and outreach; stream monitoring, restoration, and watershed master planning. To learn more, visit the City of Durham’s Stormwater Division webpage and follow on Facebook and Instagram.

About the Durham County Stormwater Program
The Durham County Stormwater Program with Durham County's Engineering and Environmental Services Department is responsible for administering the Durham County Stormwater Ordinance, which applies to all unincorporated areas of Durham County. The Program enforces the Neuse River, Falls Lake, and Jordan Lake nutrient management rules through development reviews including flood control, water quantity, and water quality control measures. It is also responsible for maintaining the County’s compliance with the rules through stormwater retrofit identification, illicit discharge detection and elimination, and education and outreach activities. 

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