Raccoon Creek Restoration Community Environmental Project

Tucked within Raccoon Creek State Park, a once-impounded stretch of Traverse Creek has been transformed into a safer, more resilient, and naturally functioning system. The Raccoon Creek Restoration Community Environmental Project reflects a thoughtful approach to balancing public safety, environmental restoration, and long-term land stewardship in a highly visible public setting.

RES partnered with the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) to address a high-hazard dam that had outlived its original purpose. Rather than a simple removal, the project required a carefully sequenced plan that would protect park visitors, respect historically significant elements of the structure, and restore ecological function across the site. The dam had been identified as hazardous by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PADEP), requiring coordinated regulatory engagement from the outset.

The work unfolded in two phases:

First, RES lowered water levels by notching the dam’s emergency spillway, allowing the impounded area to gradually dewater and stabilize. This step created the conditions needed for safe and effective construction.

In the second phase, RES removed the upper portions of the dam and reestablished a natural, free-flowing stream channel through the former impoundment and downstream reach. The surrounding floodplain is being restored with native wetland vegetation, returning ecological value to the landscape while enhancing its natural character for park visitors.

RES provided full turnkey delivery, including design, permitting, and construction, coordinating closely with PADEP and the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to secure approvals and maintain compliance throughout both phases. The team navigated complex site conditions, including the need for specialized construction precautions, while maintaining a clear focus on safety, regulatory performance, and long-term success.

The project has reconnected stream processes, improved habitat, and created a more stable and sustainable system that aligns with DCNR’s long-term vision for the park. RES continues to support the site through required monitoring to ensure performance standards are achieved.

Client Benefits

Eliminated a public safety concern within a heavily used state park

Delivered a fully integrated, turnkey solution from design through stewardship

Streamlined coordination with PADEP and USACE

Restored natural stream function and floodplain connectivity

Enhanced ecological value with native wetland habitat

Reduced long-term maintenance needs through a stable, self-sustaining design

Supported DCNR’s land management goals while preserving public access and use

Raccoon Creek Pre-restoration conditions, 2021

Raccoon Creek After Phase 1 Construction, 2022

Raccoon Creek After Phase 1 Construction, 2022

Raccoon Creek Eight months after Phase 1 Construction, 2023

Raccoon Creek After Phase 2 Construction, 2024