Howell Creek Stabilization Project

Directly after Hurricane Ian, the Department of Natural Resources and Sustainability conducted an environmental assessment and noted extensive damage to Howell Creek from Lake Sue north to Lake Virginia. In an effort to protect and preserve Howell Creek, which is a vital natural resource for Mead Gardens. The City of Winter Park and the wildlife/waterfowl it inhabits, the city applied for federal assistance through the Natural Resources Conservation Services (NRCS) program. NRCS evaluated the city’s application request and was awarded $2.2 million dollars for restoration efforts. The goal of the restoration is to stem severe erosion issues, provide bank stabilization, remove sediments that is impacting natural flow, and restoring with native vegetation. This project is intended to protect and restore nature including the diverse trees and canopy that exists.

Stabilization efforts are set to begin on Monday, June 3, and will extend through various priority sections of the creek over the next several months. The top priority will be addressing the extensive damages to the retaining wall at Mead Botanical Garden. Stay informed about project developments through updates on this page and via email for those who registered during the community meeting in March. To receive email updates, please contact geby@cityofwinterpark.org to be added to the email list.

During this time, Pond and Company and Winter Park staff will enter the creek at various locations, including through adjacent residential properties. They may enter the creek on foot or traverse the stream to monitor these activities.

• Howell Creek Stabilization Report
• Stakeholder Meeting Posters
• Community Meeting – Thursday, March 28 from 5-7 p.m. @ Mead Botanical Garden
• Access tentative project timeline