Restoration in Progress
What’s Happening at Gum Spring Creek?
At Reflection Riding, conservation and restoration are at the heart of everything we do. As part of our ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship, we’re excited to announce that we’re undertaking a significant streambank restoration project on Gum Spring Creek. This critical work is part of our broader effort to ensure that our natural spaces are preserved for future generations while also providing healthier habitats for native wildlife.
The restoration work on Gum Spring Creek involves stabilizing the streambank to prevent further erosion, improving water quality, and enhancing the overall habitat along the creek. This project has been carefully planned and approved under an Aquatic Resource Alteration Permit (ARAP), ensuring that our methods meet all environmental standards. Additionally, the Tennessee Historical Commission has reviewed and approved our plans, recognizing the importance of preserving both the natural and historical integrity of this area. The overall process includes repairing the stream beds with rocks to divert water from further erosion, in addition to establishing native plants along the stream bed.
The health of Gum Spring Creek is vital not only to our property but also to the greater watershed. By addressing erosion and restoring native vegetation, we’re reducing sediment runoff, enhancing plant biodiversity, and improving the overall resilience of this waterway. This is a long-term investment that will allow us to better serve both our natural and human communities. By taking these proactive steps now, we’re ensuring that the natural beauty and ecological health of our space continue to grow and thrive.
What Can Visitors Expect?
In early October, we closed our after-hours parking lot to complete the excavation process. A small excavator benched the highly eroded streambank. Cross vanes were constructed from local rock to slow water down and dissipate energy from storm events that could cause further erosion. Now that the bank is fortified, the after-hours parking lot is now open. We appreciate your patience and understanding during this process.
Going forward, we will cultivate native plants surrounding the creek. You may see our team watering seeds that will provide strength and erosion control for the restoration project.
We invite you to stay connected with us on social media and through our website to learn more about how this work is helping to shape a healthier, more resilient landscape at Reflection Riding. Thank you for your continued support and for being part of our journey in caring for this beautiful land. We can’t wait to show you the positive impact this restoration will have on Gum Spring Creek and the larger Lookout Creek watershed!
