On August 9, 2016, the North Briarlake Civic Association (NBCA) (that includes many members of ELHA) hosted a community education meeting about the Echo Lake watershed, including the flood-prone intersection of Briarcliff and Briarlake Roads. The 90 minute meeting featured Art Hansen of NBCA, Bill Blakeslee of ELHA, and Jason Ulseth, an environmental specialist certified in storm water management from the non-profit organization, Chattahoochee RiverKeeper. The meeting drew more than 80 local residents from several local subdivisions; representatives of many homeowners’ associations, Lakeside High School, and local environmental protection groups, and the Director and chief engineer from DeKalb County’s Planning and Sustainability Department.
Speakers addressed the several concerns in our watershed. These include recent severe flooding, excessive storm water, clogged drains and culverts, continued erosion and sedimentation due to development and the removal or disturbance of mature trees, vegetation, and soil on streambanks and lakeshores. They also discussed the many benefits of maintaining mature trees for controlling erosion and air pollution, preserving wildlife habitat, and enhancing property values. This noted federal and state laws that regulate docks and other development on the banks of waterways. They included local case studies, including a Lakeside student seriously injured by a displaced storm drain cover during a major flood on Briarcliff Rd.
Speakers also described recent actions the county has taken to reduce flooding, to manage storm water, to protect streambanks and lakeshores, and to reduce pollution of surface waters that make up 98% of Atlanta’s drinking water. They noted future plans for additional watershed improvements if community support and financial resources are sufficient. Speakers also reviewed simple steps residents can take to reduce flooding, to improve storm water flow, and to minimize erosion and water pollution into our local waterways.
See links for meeting handouts and PowerPoint presentations that provide more details:
Stream Buffers, Trees, and Clean Drinking Water
Flooding & Storm Water