Although Crooked Creek is in good condition relative to other streams in Marion County, development within the watershed has compromised its ability to provide these important natural functions. The increased volume and velocity of water from hard surfaces such as roads, rooftops, and parking lots increases flooding, causes erosion, diminishes water quality, raises water temperature, and degrades sensitive habitats. Changes to the natural shape of the creek also disrupt habitat and increase erosion. Near the creek, inappropriate landscaping, improper disposal of lawn materials, clearing of vegetation, and uncontrolled burning and dumping by landowners contribute to erosion and poor water quality. These practices result in sedimentation that degrades water quality, scours stream beds, displaces fish habitat, contributes to loss of streambank property and wildlife, and destabilizes structures like bridges and foundations. Crooked Creek is not unique. Within Marion County, there are 21 other local watersheds that suffer from these same problems. Although these problems are complex and difficult to fix, there are solutions. The city of Indianapolis currently is engaged in a series of ongoing efforts to mitigate and reverse the damage to these urban streams. The Department of Public Works is preparing watershed-based stormwater management plans. Indy Parks and Recreation has designated 14 greenways in its 1994 greenways plan. The specific goals for the Crooked Creek Corridor include environmental preservation and conservation as well as the creation of links to other greenways and public facilities along the creek. As a creekside landowner or nearby resident, you have an important role in this process. There are several practical steps you can take to maintain and protect this valuable resource, including:
For information on how to order the complete brochure, either call 317-261-3000 or e-mail Jamie Palmer at jlpalmer@iupui.edu.
|
|||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Crooked
Creek begins in southern Hamilton County and flows southward through Pike,
Washington, and Center townships in Marion County. The Creek has four
branches—Oil Creek, Payne Branch, Delaware Creek, and Ditch Creek—and
is fed by 42 major storm sewer outfalls. It joins the White River at Lake
Sullivan, near 38th Street and Cold Spring Road. The watershed (total land
area that drains into the creek) is approximately 20 square miles. Crooked
Creek, its banks, and the immediately adjacent area are an important natural
system. When allowed to function properly, the creek and its surroundings
provide wildlife and fish habitat, recreation, improved water quality, and
flood control.
Reducing
pollution