Main Street Nature Park is a 10-acre public green space in the heart of Weaverville, providing opportunities for recreation, environmental education, and connection with nature. Blue Earth Engineering, in collaboration with Osgood Landscape Architecture, is leading the design of an integrated stream restoration and stormwater improvement project in partnership with the Town of Weaverville and Land of Sky Regional Council.

The grant-funded project addresses two aging stormwater detention basins and approximately 600 linear feet of stream corridor affected by erosion and channel instability. Rather than simply repairing the existing infrastructure, the design takes a holistic approach, using nature-based solutions to restore natural water processes while improving the park's habitat, resilience, and educational value.

Restoring Stormwater Function through Constructed Wetlands

A central component of the project is the conversion of two existing detention basins into stormwater wetlands. The redesigned systems will incorporate shallow wetland areas, deeper pools, native vegetation, and improved water-level controls to slow and treat stormwater runoff.

These improvements are intended to reduce downstream peak flows, improve water quality, and create diverse aquatic and wetland habitat. The wetlands will also serve as visible examples of how green infrastructure can provide multiple benefits within a public landscape.

Stream Restoration and Ecological Improvements

The project includes restoration and stabilization of approximately 600 linear feet of stream corridor. Proposed improvements use natural channel stabilization techniques, including vegetated geolifts and native riparian plantings, to address eroding banks while improving streamside habitat.

Removal of invasive vegetation and restoration of native plant communities will further strengthen the ecological health of the stream corridor. The design also explores opportunities to improve pedestrian connections, potentially replacing existing culverts with footbridges where feasible.

Connecting Restoration with Community Education

Beyond its engineering and ecological benefits, the project is intended to make stormwater and stream restoration more accessible and understandable to park visitors. Proposed improvements include enhanced access and viewing opportunities around the wetlands, along with a potential outdoor classroom and gathering space.

By bringing these elements together, Main Street Nature Park will demonstrate how community green spaces can serve multiple purposes—managing stormwater, restoring habitat, reducing erosion, supporting environmental education, and creating more meaningful connections between people and natural systems.

Project Team

Blue Earth Engineering, Inc.
Osgood Landscape Architecture

Project Partners

Town of Weaverville
Land of Sky Regional Council