Riverfront Trail Notes No. 31: The Root of the Problem

One section of trail that parallels the North bank of Chenoweth Creek is lined with Poplar trees planted many years ago and their roots have been erupting and rending the Trail for many years. An array of solutions have been proposed and tried but the damaging roots are as perennial as the grass. Your Riverfront Trail Board, also volunteers, are finalizing a permanent solution that also offers an array of benefits.

By relocating that section of trail up the slope away from the Poplars, the following benefits accrue:

1. The root(s) of the problem will no longer be a constant threat to the trail.  

2. The Poplars remain (notwithstanding beavers!).

3. The rich riparian zone along the creek will be preserved and enhanced as undisturbed wildlife habitat.  

4. The Trail will be out of reach of high water events.  

5. The view of the Chenoweth Creek estuary will be much improved.

6. The contours of the relocated Trail will be more gradual.

The proposed Trail relocation is in the engineering stage and the board hopes to be in a position to have the project completed this year if funding is adequate. The project is a grassroots endeavor to improve one of our community’s most treasured features and it will depend on the donations of community members.

Please consider being a part of the solution by making a donation to make this major Trail improvement a reality.

“I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver.” — Maya Angelou