Adopt-A-Stream

This is a new program that began in summer 2010.  The goal is to connect groups and organizations with a stretch of a creek that they will be responsible for.  Some aspects of this responsibility include: trash cleanups, invasive plant removal, photography and sketch mapping of the area for changes, and minor repairs if bank erosion is occurring.  Some groups are taking a proactive stance to wrap trees in reaches where there is high beaver activity.

The program is currently being funded by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.  During summer 2010, AWC's intern Marcus Welker located, evaluated, and documented a series of stream reaches that could be adopted.  Before summer ended, the Anchorage Meetup Group (www.meetup.com/AnchorageAdventurers/) had adopted a stretch of Campbell Creek between Lake Otis and Elmore.  By October 15 they had already completed two activities at the site:  invasive weed removal and tree wrapping for beaver control. In 2011 the Anchorage Meetup Group has cleaned the area and is working to repair the orange fencing designed to allow some streambank vegetation to regrow in addition to invasive plant removal.

In 2011, the program grew to include Polaris K-12 along Little Campbell Creek, Mears Middle School on Campbell Creek (they also adopted the trail), AMEP (Alaska Manufacturing Extension Partnership), and two new ones that are being reviewed.

There are lots of opportunities for groups, neighborhoods, or companies to get involved.  AWC provides guidance, trash bags, gloves, fencing, erosion material, invasive identification, etc.  Contact Cherie Northon at 272-7335 or cherie@anchoragecreeks.org if you are interested.

Please check back as we add more information.