Lyons Valley River Park

August 2019
As a reminder, the LVRP area is still an active construction site. Please note that people and pets should not be in the area. Staff is working with external consultants to remedy the algae growth.

Ecologists with DHM Design completed a site assessment in early August to review current pond health and aquatic vegetation. This is a brief summary of their assessment:

The two recently constructed ponds at LVRP have aquatic vegetation present in both density and composition that is common to newly created still water natural aquatic systems. Invasive noxious species are present but can be managed. The ponds are experiencing vegetative growth typical with that of a newly-constructed ponds. The species observed included: Water hyacinth (Eichornia crassipes) (invasive), Eurasian milfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum) (invasive), Common elodea (Elodea nuttalli hydrocharitaceae) (native), Elodia (Elodia canadensis) (native) and filamentous algae (Spirogyra spp.)

The aquatic vegetation will need to be continually managed until the system stabilizes at a eutrophic level (i.e. nutrients, temperature, DO, etc.) Increasing flow through the pond system will significantly improve water quality. The physical site around of the ponds should stabilize once vegetation establishment occurs which will significantly to reduce sedimentation and nutrient transport into ponds, it turn, reducing the available nutrients for weed production. We will continue to work with the contractor to make needed adjustments to the irrigation system to improve erosion control and sediment transportation. In addition to these suggestions, the Town of Lyons has scheduled a site visit with Aqua Sierra, to gain further information on the condition of the ponds including a full water quality assessment.

 The Town expects to have an update in early September.