Stream Restoration Project at Fallston Schools Enhances Water Quality

Harford County is restoring approximately 5,000 linear feet of stream on the campus of Fallston Middle and High Schools. The project is intended to restore the natural flow of Elbow Brook to its original course, improve water quality, and stabilize eroding stream banks.

In addition to the stream restoration, the project consists of two stormwater management facilities to provide water quality management for runoff from the schools’ parking lots. The upgrades will help reduce sediment and nutrients entering Elbow Brook and ultimately keep them from reaching the Chesapeake Bay, while enhancing aquatic habitats.

The restored area will also serve as a “living classroom” when completed, offering students opportunities to learn about stream ecology and conservation.

The project was funded by a $1.5M grant through the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Trust Fund. Aquatic Resource Restoration Company from York, PA, began construction in September 2024 with completion expected in Spring 2025.

A website dedicated to the project will be updated during the construction, visit https://www.harfordcountymd.gov/3014/Fallston-Middle-and-High-School-Stream-R. QR codes linking to the website are also displayed on the project signs located at three construction entrances at the schools.

“Most stream restoration projects are often in areas not in plain view of the public,” County Executive Bob Cassilly said. “We are dedicated to stream restoration, and this project on public school grounds provides students with a firsthand understanding of our efforts to enhance the stream’s quality.”