Lexington subdivision restoring pond into natural stream

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) - A Lexington subdivision is restoring a pond into a natural stream.

The Waterford subdivision applied for a grant with the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government Division of Water Quality after the pond experienced problems with algae, maintenance and water quality.

Grant to fund restoration

Frank Mabson, grant administrator for LFUCG Water Quality, said the goal is to create a habitat for aquatic life.

“The main goal is to create a habit for aquatic life or life in general. That’s that’s where you see this pool a couple pools in this area for aquatic life to flourish. We want butterflies we want all the beautiful animals and creatures that god created to be in this area but I think as a human we wanna be able to enjoy this come out in the park area and picnics and things of that nature it’s gonna be splendid for the neighborhood,” Mabson said.

The stream will bring habitats for native plants, pollinators and fish. The area will also serve as a place to aid in stormwater runoff since there is no longer a dam downstream to keep the water contained.

Stream to help water quality

Erik Merlino, grant manager for LFUCG Water Quality, said the project will help control water flow through the area.

“It’s always gonna receive a lot of water through here so I think with this project it’s gonna be a little more control. It’ll bring back a little bit of meander which is used to have years ago which will help natural habitat. It’ll help stream migration. It’ll help water quality,” Merlino said.

The project was funded by the Stormwater Quality Projects Incentive Grant Program. Neighborhoods, businesses and non-profit organizations can apply to receive funds and resources to aid in projects regarding improving local water quality.

Mabson said the program was created as a way to return funds toward stormwater projects.

“It was a way to return some of the funds in the way of a stormwater project so as long as the projects are improving stormwater or maintenance of stormwater, then applicants can apply,” Mabson said.

Organizations can apply on the city of Lexington’s water quality website. The project is planned to be complete by the end of the year.