Years ago, bricks were made in North Augusta along the Savannah River. To get material for brick making, clay soil was dug out of the ground, leaving depressions that filled with water. These isolated wetlands exist on about 20 acres of property within the Hammond's Ferry development along the Savannah riverfront.
The ponds contain industrial debris, trash, and waste brick. They have become home for salamanders, turtles, fish and frogs and many species of plants. Wading birds and ducks often visit the larger ponds. As well, the ponds have been providing stormwater filtration within the North Augusta watershed for decades.
With the development of the Savannah riverfront underway, an innovative constructed wetland design has been developed to retain, enhance, and restore the wetland ecosystem currently in place. Once complete, the reconstructed wetlands will filter stormwater more efficiently while remaining an excellent habitat for aquatic and semi-aquatic wildlife.
When complete, the ponds will be linked to the North Augusta Greeneway Trail and serve as an educational ecological park for all to enjoy. Plans include boardwalks and walkways throughout, with information posted about stormwater treatment, wetland processes, and the wildlife that exist within the park.
Educational tours of the constructed wetland will also be scheduled once the project is complete. The finished constructed wetland and ecological park will not only be a great place for wildlife, but also a great place to spend an afternoon. For more information, contact Environmental Coordinator Tanya Strickland at 803-441-4246 or email stormwater@northaugusta.net.
