1. Restoring Norton Creek
Norton Creek is a tributary of the Huron River
runs through Wixom and several other Oakland County communities.
HRWC is currently leading an effort to install green infrastructure and restore a stretch of stream
The goals of the project are to
(1) improve water quality,
(2) facilitate the recovery of the aquatic and riparian communities and
(3) educate residents on water quality issues and solutions for Norton Creek.

2. Norton Creek Impairments
The DEQ designated the creek impaired for low dissolved oxygen and high total suspended solids.
In watershed plan research we found significant impairments
low DO
High P, but low sedimentation
Poor and declining biota

3. Consistently ranked high for increased flood risk
various temperature and precipitation scenarios.

4. Norton Creek restoration at Gibson Park, Wixom
project site
Off Pontiac Trail. Lots of foot traffic and visitors
Historic site
Straight, over-wide channel w low DO

5. Bioswale and Raingarden
Capture road and drive runoff in bioswale connected to large bioinfiltration garden
Demonstrate runoff capture, storage and filtration
Slow the flow. Extend groundwater recharge

6. Stream Restoration Restoration of 500 m
Narrow channels with “inner-berm benches”
Made of native woody debris
Increase diversity, reoxygenation
Live stakes and native planting/seeding between creek and rain garden

7. High profile project
Leverage additional green infrastructure and stream restoration projects
Social survey’s conducted in the basin indicate the need for education
Thanks to Pure Oakland Water we will be installing interpretive signage on the problems, benefits of the creek, and why green infrastructure solutions.
Signage will be placed at the walkway along Pontiac Trail and down in Gibson park over-looking Norton creek.