COS 216-3 - Nature-based solutions transform a riparian corridor with benefits to the community and environment in Butte, MT

Abstract: Historic mining practices resulted in contamination of soils and impacts to surface water and groundwater at and below the Silver Bow Creek riparian corridor in Butte, Montana. Instead of using only engineered solutions to accomplish the project goals of remediating and enhancing habitat, this project uses innovative and sustainable “nature-based” solutions in conjunction with engineered solutions. The nature-based solutions complement historic mine waste removal and the capture and treatment of contaminated groundwater to ensure that surface water resources will be further protected, biodiversity will increase, and the community will gain a public natural area. The specific nature-based solutions to be implemented for this project include the use of biosequestration, planting native plants, and creating natural ponds and wetlands within a 160-acre urban greenway in the heart of Butte. We worked with local landscapers to develop an appropriate planting schedule that creates and supports a diverse habitat. This habitat allows wildlife to thrive, and it will beautify the community over time. The implemented solutions are expected to provide the following ecosystem services: climate regulation, carbon sequestration, habitat development, pollination of flowering plants, soundscape improvement, viewshed improvement, pest and invasive species control, flood regulation, nature viewing, physical activity, and support and increase of biodiversity. We developed a monitoring plan and began baseline sampling in June 2022. Field assessments allow us to understand how these ecosystem services are changing and whether we need to make changes to the remediation plan through adaptive management to successfully increase ecosystem services. We present baseline data for ecosystem services collected in June 2022, before remediation activities take place in fall of 2023. Our baseline surveys act as a case study and provide a framework for how to monitor for ecosystem services, as well as information on native species, suggestions on how to save natural capital for reuse, and overviews of areas of special concern during remediation.