A new edition of the Esopus Creek News newsletter is in the mail to watershed residents. You can read a digital version of the newsletter here. In this issue we talk about methods for managing sediment where it causes problems by accumulating in stream channels. The historical practice of dredging has been replaced by engineered sediment management. Newer methods let the stream do as much of the work as possible. This lowers the cost of managing sediment over the long-term, particularly where sediment interferes with bridges and culverts. We give the Phoenicia Main Street bridge as an example. This edition also includes information on risk and flood insurance for property owners at some distance from the active stream channel. They may not want to give up worrying about flood damage! And we recognize local towns and Ulster County for the great work they accomplished managing streams and reducing flood risks in 2021. For youth we feature a student video chock full of fun facts about streams that all ages can enjoy. Plus, learn more about one of the most adorable stream-loving animals: otters!
