Restoration of Schoolhouse Branch in the Lower Fish River Watershed
Annelise Dodd, PE
Volkert, Inc.
Gulf Shores, AL
Watershed Authors: Dodd, A., Kudulis, J.
The Weeks Bay Watershed Management Plan (WMP) encompasses the Fish River and Magnolia River drainage basins in southwestern Baldwin County, Alabama. Baldwin County has been among the fastest-growing counties in Alabama for decades, experiencing sustained population growth and significant land use change over the past two decades. Expansion of impervious surface cover and reductions in wetlands and riparian buffers have intensified stormwater runoff, increasing runoff volume and velocity and contributing to elevated sediment and nutrient loading. In response, the WMP prioritized identifying instream erosional “hot spots” and implementing targeted stream restoration and bank stabilization projects.
To support WMP implementation, the Mobile Bay National Estuary Program (MBNEP) secured funding through the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s Gulf Environmental Benefit Fund to implement a watershed-scale restoration program in the Lower Fish River Watershed (LFRW). Modeled after the successful D’Olive Watershed restoration program, the LFRW initiative applies natural channel design principles to restore stream stability, reconnect floodplains, and re-establish ecological function. To date, three restoration projects have been completed within the LFRW.
This presentation will focus on Schoolhouse Branch, the largest of the completed projects (3,100 LF). Existing conditions included a deeply incised channel with active bank failure, excessive shear stress, and limited floodplain connectivity. Restoration strategies focused on re-establishing stable channel geometry, improving sediment transport balance, reducing downstream loading, and reconnecting the stream to its floodplain to promote long-term stability and resilience. Design approaches included channel regrading to appropriate bankfull dimensions, installation of in-stream grade control and energy dissipation structures, targeted use of Bio-D Block for toe protection, incorporation of vegetated riprap in high-stress areas, and extensive native riparian plantings to reinforce banks and enhance habitat.
The presentation will also highlight adaptive responses to evolving site conditions and key lessons learned related to right-of-way constraints, utility coordination, private landowner engagement, project footprint limitations, and working within a dynamic and rapidly degrading system.
About Annelise Dodd, PE
Annelise Dodd is a Project Manager with a focus on environmental design for Volkert, Inc in Gulf Shores, AL. Annelise has over nine years of experience performing hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, conducting geomorphic assessments, developing stream and wetland restoration plans, and performing construction oversight and post-construction monitoring.