By Sherry Lynn Gros for The Highland Park Review
Restoring the Dog River Watershed: A Community Effort
Highland Park Subdivision, along with the Highland Park Community Association (HPca) and Optimist Lake at Milkhouse Creek, is situated in the Dog River Watershed, as delineated by the black boundary on the accompanying map. The restoration of wetlands within this area, as well as throughout Alabama’s watersheds, is not only necessary but also a well-established process.
The City of Mobile’s ongoing watershed restoration project serves as a prime example of how these initiatives are enacted under the law. The success of the restoration efforts at Milkhouse Creek hinges on the collaboration of various stakeholders, including grant providers, developers, planners, city officials, and community members. Here, Councilman Josh Woods plays a crucial role. As the elected Councilman for District 6, he is poised to guide HPca in securing grant funding and advocating for our restoration needs within the broader City Council framework. The process is transparent and can be explored in more detail at Mobile’s Watershed Map.
It’s important to note that HPca parklands at Milkhouse Creek are eligible for the same grant funding aimed at watershed restoration that the Mobile City Council is pursuing. In fact, HPca stands out in Mobile as a unique agency, managing 25 acres of parkland dedicated to public recreation, fishing, and hunting. This is per our Articles of Incorporation and various federal laws, including the Clean Water Act of 1972.
To move forward, HPca requires the support and guidance of the Mobile City Council to navigate the funding landscape, potentially including resources from organizations such as the Mobile Bay National Estuary Program. However, it’s essential to recognize that funding competition exists. As HPca seeks restoration funds, we may face challenges posed by the prioritization of projects by the City Council. This unique dynamic could introduce delays or tensions between our organization and the city. Nevertheless, HPca is committed to fostering cooperation among all parties to achieve a cleaner Dog River Watershed and a revitalized Optimist Lake at Milkhouse Creek.
Councilman Josh Woods has expressed his willingness to support HPca, but he emphasizes the importance of community backing. Since the annexation, we are making steady progress toward restoring our 25 acres of parkland, and revitalizing creek banks, wetlands, and the migratory bird paths that existed before the dam’s destruction.
As a nearly 100-year-old nonprofit organization serving the citizens of Mobile, HPca seeks recognition and respect from the Mobile City Council along with the community we serve. Your voice matters. We invite you to support our efforts by signing the petition at www.change.org/HPcaCleanParks. Only together, can we make a significant impact on the future of our local environment. Thank you again for your support.
Sherry Lynn Gros President, HPca, Inc.