This section of stream is surrounded with impervious pavement.  The nature of the short grass surrounding the stream provides no protection to the stream and degrades the aquatic ecosystem.  Sunlight can reach the stream unfiltered, warming the water beyond the limits of aquatic life.

Replacing lawn grass with a natural streamside plant community improves water quality by filtering harmful parking lot runoff.  Canopy trees keep the water cool by shading the brook.  Using native plantings enhances the quality of habitat for wildlife.