This fall, the City of Gastonia will begin studying natural streams across the community to better understand how and where erosion is happening. The work is part of the City’s ongoing Stormwater Asset Inventory and Assessment Project, which aims to protect local waterways and improve stormwater management. This project is funded through a $500,000 grant from the Local Assistance for Stormwater Infrastructure Investments Program (LASII).
Starting in November, consultants working with the City will visit stream areas within city limits to complete what’s called a Bank Erosion Hazard Index (BEHI) assessment. This process helps identify places where streambanks are wearing away and how quickly that erosion is occurring.
Property owners and residents in the areas where this work will take place will receive a notification letter explaining the project and providing contact information for City staff.
To complete the study, teams will take simple measurements of the streams—like width and depth—and make visual observations of streambank conditions. In some cases, this work may take place on or near private property.
All field staff will wear high-visibility safety vests and carry a copy of the official City letter explaining the project. They are instructed to be respectful of property and to work cooperatively with residents.
“This project will enhance our understanding of and provide data for the conditions within the City’s major watersheds,” said Robert Cloninger, City of Gastonia Assistant Director of Public Services. “It also enables staff to better educate property owners on best management practices for streambank stabilization, empowering them to contribute to the overall improvement of surface water quality within the City.”
Residents with questions can email Robert Cloninger or call him at (704) 685-2244, or email Andrew Bradley or call him at (704) 915-8130.
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Gastonia, N.C., just minutes west of Charlotte, is one of the area’s best places to live and work with an ideal combination of location, size and livability. Gastonia is the largest of Gaston County’s 13 municipalities and one of the largest cities in the Charlotte metropolitan area. Selected as an All-America City three times, Gastonia’s desirable quality of life is the result of its beautiful natural surroundings, friendly neighborhoods, responsive government and vibrant business environment.