Habitats During Excavation

During excavation the impact to wildlife is minimal as the area is already affected by agricultural and heavy trail use. However, an increase in wildlife during the project is anticipated. As seen in the Strawtown Koteewi Park’s lake development, opportunistic wildlife take advantage of the increase in mudflats for shorebird foraging. Native and non-native plants attract insects and birds, and slopes and banks are used as habitats by swallows and other birds during the excavation. 

Habitats Following Excavation Completion

Once the excavation is completed, Hamilton County Parks and Recreation will develop the remaining areas into a functional habitat. Unlike the river, the lake will support additional plant and animal communities associated with a still-water lake habitat, including fish, reptiles, birds, and mammal species.