| In December 2008, a dike containing about 20 million cubic yards of coal ash from power plant operations failed and released over 5 million cubic yards of coal ash into the Emory River and adjacent land. The spill had significant effects on the community and environment. Aquatic organisms and shorelines were buried in coal ash. Cleanup was needed to ensure the protection of human health and the environment. The cleanup process considered ecological revitalization of the site and surrounding area as an integral part of all response activities. A team of biologists, landscape architects, and engineers worked together to integrate plantings and ecological aspects as components of the cleanup activities. An ecosystem was created by planting a mosaic of forested, scrub-shrub, and emergent wetland plant communities, as well as native trees and seeds in disturbed areas. Today, there are frequent bird sightings at the site, including white ibises, cattle egret, and herons. |