Hinkson Creek Stabilization (Update)

Update, July 22: Construction on the Hinkson Creek stabilization project is nearly complete. Photos of the linear peak stone toe are in the column on the right.

The City of Columbia Sewer and Stormwater Utilities are working to stabilize the Hinkson Creek streambank. The project has three main goals: to protect sewer lines from damage, to reduce sediment from entering the creek, and to enhance habitat for macroinvertebrates. All three will lead to improved water quality in Hinkson Creek.

A contractor of the Utilities worked on the project July 11-22. The improvements included installing 430 feet of linear peak stone toe and five bendway weirs.

Linear peak stone toe stabilization is the strategic placement of large rocks and downed trees into the channel to divert stream flow away from the existing bank. In the Hinkson, the plan is to construct the top of the linear peak stone toe 1 to 2 feet above ordinary high-water elevation. The toe will support the weight of the bank, over time creating a stable slope behind the row of stones through the deposit of sediments and the slumping of the upper bank.

Along with downed trees and root balls, the Utility plans to install native plants to help secure the bank. These materials will enhance habitat for stream life.

All necessary Army Corps of Engineers and Missouri Department of Natural Resources permits have been obtained. The Hinkson Creek Collaborative Adaptive Management teams also approved this project. The cost for this project is estimated at $220,000 from Sewer Utility and Storm Water Utility funds.