Stream Restoration Projects

Knapp’s Meadow
The Knapp’s Meadow Streambank Restoration Demonstration Area is located along Route 36 in Lonaconing and is the site of the former Allegany County Garage.  The GCWA planned originally to construct a community park at the Knapp’s Meadow site that would also provide handicapped access to George’s Creek.  However, when preparing to apply for permits to begin construction of the park, it was discovered from FEMA maps, that almost half of the parking lot was within the floodplain.  Human activities over the past years at this site had altered the natural floodplain.  Further, this portion of George’s Creek lacked suitable habitat for fish species, in particular trout species.  Trout species require a variety of habitats including pool and riffle areas.  Historically this portion of George’s Creek contained a large pool and a variety of riffle areas and according to long time residents of George’s Creek, was a popular trout fishing area.

To solve these problems and proceed with the original intention of making this site a park for the community to enjoy, the GCWA partnered with several agencies to secure funding and in-kind services to restore the natural flood plain and install rock vanes to alleviate flooding and provide fish habitat. 

The site shall be a demonstration streambank restoration area as well as a park with fishing access to George’s Creek.  Residents and visitors to George’s Creek can enjoy the park and learn about streambank restoration.

The Knapp's Meadow Streambank Restoration Project was made possible by a grant funded by the Chesapeake Bay Trust and The FishAmerica Foundation. Also, special thanks should be given to the Allegany County Soil Conservation District and Kiddy's Contracting, LLC for contributing considerable in-kind to this project.

Potential Stream Restoration Projects