
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
Key Team Members
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Stephanie Blain, PE, LEED AP
PROJECT MANAGER
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Brian Ward, PE, PLS
TEAM MEMBER
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Kelly Whittington, PLS
TEAM MEMBER
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Craig Palmer, PLS
TEAM MEMBER