Wolf Run Water Quality Improvement Project

FAYETTE COUNTY, KY

WATER RESOURCES

Palmer Engineering, in collaboration with Geotechnology and Redwing Ecological Services, delivered key environmental engineering projects within the Wolf Run Watershed Based Plan. These included the Cross Keys Park Pond Water Quality Retrofit and the Picadome Golf Course Stream Restoration—both prioritized initiatives designed to restore natural systems, improve water quality, and enhance community spaces.

Cross Keys Park Pond Water Quality Retrofit

Transforming degraded surface water into a sustainable water quality feature involved:

  • Wetland development to naturally filter pollutants

  • Sediment forebay creation for stormwater management

  • Native plantings to enhance biodiversity

  • Invasive species removal to protect the ecosystem

Community Engagement in Environmental Engineering

Residents view Cross Keys Park as an extension of their backyards, making public involvement essential. Palmer facilitated:

  • Public meetings to inform and gather input

  • Collaboration with the Wolf Run Watershed Council

  • A volunteer planting day for hands-on participation

  • Access points designed to connect people with nature

Picadome Golf Course Stream Restoration – Big Elm & Vaughn’s Branch

Palmer Engineering restored stream function and stability through in-channel stream restoration techniques, including:

  • Riffle establishment for aquatic habitat and grade control

  • In-stream structures such as cross vanes and J-hooks to stabilize flow and provide habitat diversity

  • Sinkhole retrofit to improve drainage

  • Creation of two wetlands/water quality basins to reduce pollutants and improve water retention

Comprehensive Environmental Engineering & Design Services

Palmer provided a full suite of environmental engineering services to support the Wolf Run projects, including:

  • Development of multiple design concepts for client review

  • Hydrologic and hydraulic modeling for water flow management

  • Geotechnical exploration and dam stability analysis

  • Coordination with federal, state, and local agencies on permitting

  • Public outreach and stakeholder engagement

  • Construction drawings, bidding support, and administration

Funding was supported by a Federal 319(h) grant awarded to LFUCG by KDOW, further strengthening partnerships across agencies and communities.

Lasting Environmental Impact – Stream & Wetland Restoration in Kentucky

These projects significantly enhanced water quality, stabilized stream channels, and restored aquatic habitats, benefiting both people and wildlife.

The Wolf Run Watershed Restoration demonstrates Palmer Engineering’s expertise in:

  • Stream restoration in Kentucky

  • Wetland and water quality improvements

  • Community-driven ecological restoration

  • Sustainable watershed management

Wolf Run Watershed in Fayette County, Kentucky.
Wolf Run Watershed in Fayette County, Kentucky.

Key Team Members

  • Stephanie Blain, PE, LEED AP

    PROJECT MANAGER

  • Brian Ward, PE, PLS

    TEAM MEMBER

  • Kelly Whittington, PLS

    TEAM MEMBER

  • Craig Palmer, PLS

    TEAM MEMBER

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