In 2003 the City of Grand Forks established three riparian restoration sites in the Greenway to test various restoration techniques. Fifteen years later we can definitely say these projects are a great success!
 
The Greenway restoration project was a cooperative effort with the Red River Riparian Council (RRRC), Red River Riparian Program (RRRP), ND Forest Service, and the ND Game and Fish Department. The goal was to establish stability to the riverbanks, provide filter pollution from runoff, establish wildlife habitat, and develop a place for recreational activities.
 
The RRBRP created a restoration and maintenance plan for the test sites and implemented by a contractor selected by the City of Grand Forks.   Progress was evaluated after three years for growth and survival of vegetation, protection of river bank and soil stabilization, costs (establishment and maintenance), aesthetic value, and wildlife/water quality benefits.
 
This demonstration has provided the RRBRP and the City of Grand Forks with more accurate information on various options for restoring and maintaining riparian zones within more populated areas of the Greenway.  Valuable information will be gained on the costs vs. benefits of various techniques as well as provide an opportunity for public feedback. 

The Elmwood Access & Unpaved Trails Story

Elmwood restoration

ND Forest Service Management Plan

Test site 1 - Kannowski Park (formerly Central Park): This site was treated with limited mowing, chemical weed control, and general maintenance. Willow stakes were planted along the riverbank on the south edge of the riverbank. Volunteer saplings along both sides of the lower trail were allowed to grow naturally for soil stabilization and to choke out unwanted vegetation.

Test site 2 - Elks Drive (near the Lincoln Golf clubhouse):  This site tested the effectiveness of natural regeneration.  The site was allowed to regenerate with minimal maintenance, without planting or mowing.  Bi-annual noxious weed control was done, along with post-flood trash and debris removal. ​
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Test site 3 - Elmwood Access (formerly Koininia):  This site was restored according to a concept plan developed by greenway planners and the ND Forest Service.  Restoration included removing weeds and non-native grasses from the site.  Flood-tolerant native trees, shrubs, and grasses were planted leading up to the two-year flood recurrence elevation.  Native grasses and flood-plain trees were planted above that elevation. The site will be maintained to promote the survival and growth of the installed materials and prevent the establishment of weeds and non-native plant species