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Work at Nine Mile Creek was completed in 2014, restoring forested wetlands, enhancing stream conditions for fish spawning and migration, and improving habitat along the creek. Thirty acres have been transformed into diverse new habitat, a healthier creek, and improved access for canoeing and kayaking. The project involved the removal of contaminated soil and invasive, non-native plants, realigning the creek, grading wetlands and floodplains, and planting more than 41,000 native trees, shrubs and flowers. More than 150 species of fish, birds, and other wildlife, including Osprey and Great Blue Heron, have already returned to the restored wetlands and nearby areas. These habitat elements will provide critical linkages with wetlands at the former LCP Chemicals site, the Shrub Willow Farm at the former Solvay Settlings Basins, and enhanced habitat along the shores of Onondaga Lake.
The remediation was performed under the oversight of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the New York State Department of Health, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Members of the Onondaga Lake Conservation Corps, a volunteer organization, assisted in transforming Nine Mile Creek. The Onondaga Lake Conservation Corps seeks to inspire future stewards of Onondaga Lake and its watershed through a hands-on, experience-based program that offers citizens and organizations the opportunity to participate in activities that help restore and sustain Onondaga Lake and its value as an Important Bird Area.
For more news about this cleanup area, click here.
