Hammock Park Restoration and Lake SueMar Stormwater Retrofit Project

Ardurra delivered wetland restoration services for Hammock Park, successfully restoring hydrology and ecological function in a 15-acre forested wetland system through innovative channel control and flow-diversion structures. The project included the construction of channel control structures and two overflow weirs that divert flow from an existing man-made channel, while enhancing downstream water quality in the Cedar Creek system and St. Joseph's Sound.

The restoration encompassed extensive channel improvements, including dredging and bank stabilization of a 1,300-foot section of Channel C, using innovative geoweb slope stabilization with wildflower and native grass hydroseeding. This approach expedited permitting while providing long-term erosion control and habitat enhancement throughout the restored corridor.

Key Restoration Components:

• Restored 15-acre forested wetland hydrology through channel control structures and overflow weirs, diverting flow from the man-made channel

• Dredged and stabilized the 1,300-foot Channel C section using innovative geoweb slope stabilization with native vegetation applications

• Retrofitted Lake Suemar artificial lake, originally excavated in the 1960s, requiring comprehensive sediment removal and habitat enhancement

• Removed over 20,000 cubic yards of accumulated sediments while eliminating invasive vegetative cover throughout the lake system

• Re-contoured lake margins creating sediment sumps, deep permanent pools, and littoral planting areas for enhanced habitat diversity

• Developed a hydrological and ecological monitoring program assessing project effectiveness and long-term restoration success

• Prepared a comprehensive Management Plan for Hammock Park, supporting ongoing restoration and maintenance activities

The restoration provides lasting improvements in water quality for downstream Cedar Creek and St. Joseph's Sound while establishing sustainable wetland habitat. Strategic monitoring programs ensure the continued effectiveness of restoration while demonstrating innovative approaches to urban wetland rehabilitation and ecosystem enhancement.