As I have mentioned in past KellyGrams, the Gills Creek Watershed Association is among my favorite non-profits in Columbia, and I’ve had the privilege of serving on its board for the past four years. I admit that, historically, I was not particularly attuned to environmental issues; my interest in political and community matters generally occupied most of my attention outside of work and family. However, I was approached at church one day by two past GCWA board members who asked me to join, primarily due to my fundraising experience. I agreed, and over the past four years, I have become a stalwart advocate for this wonderful organization!
The Gills Creek Watershed runs along the series of creeks and lakes spanning from the Spring Valley area of Columbia down to the Congaree River. Gills Creek Watershed Association is an advocate for this impaired ecosystem, and there are currently plans on the drawing board to create a greenway with trails, bike paths, etc. in the area, a matter which is now in the hands of the Richland County Government. In the meantime, the GCWA has managed to obtain, through state, federal, and City of Columbia funding, a combined $650,000 grant to restore the waterway along Crowson Road, which is perhaps its most visible spot in Columbia.
For those of you who are not familiar with Crowson Road, this is the section of Gills Creek that runs from Fort Jackson Boulevard to Devine Street, adjacent to the Rosewood Crossing shopping center. This area was heavily damaged by the historic flood of October 2015, and being located in a heavily-trafficked part of Columbia, it is particularly susceptible to runoff pollution. As part of the project, the slope of the bank along this portion of Gills Creek will be adjusted to reduce erosion and runoff, and vegetation and plants will be incorporated to hold the banks in place and help remove pollutants. Construction is anticipated to begin as early as mid-April, weather permitting!
I’m excited for this improvement to our city and our local environment, and I am proud to be a part of the group that is making it happen! I encourage you all to consider supporting Gills Creek Watershed Association, Congaree Riverkeeper, and other like-minded organizations focused on keeping our community clean and beautiful!
