Fort Ward Observer: Soil Erosion Continues From Fort Ward Park Maintenance Yard

Soil Erosion Continues From Fort Ward Park Maintenance Yard

Fort Ward Observer.  June 8, 2015.  J. Glenn Eugster

Soil erosion continues at Fort Ward Park as a result of excavation for archaeology within the Fort Ward Park maintenance yard.

For more than seven years the park maintenance yard, which was created without public notice or city approvals, has neglected to consistently practice soil and water erosion control.

A recent examination of the maintenance yard and Oakland Baptist Church Cemetery revealed that large areas of soil have not been replanted and as a result topsoil has been carried downhill after rainstorms settling in front of the cemetery entrance.

Over the years water runoff from the maintenance yard has caused damage to burial areas within the adjacent Oakland Baptist Church Cemetery. Evidently discussions are underway between City and Oakland Baptist Church leaders to redesign the storm water project that the Alexandria City Council approved in February.

Redesign of the storm water project may turn out to be a good thing for the park, the church and the public. However, soil conservation practices should be taken before, during and after construction of the project. At a minimum city leaders should follow the same laws, regulations and ordinances that they require residents and developers to follow.