Date Presented

Spring 5-15-2022

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science

Department

Environmental Science

First Advisor

Dr. David Perault

Second Advisor

Dr. Priscilla Gannicott

Third Advisor

Rob Campbell

Abstract

Transportation of debris within water systems is a prominent occurrence which has been linked to natural and artificial processes including wind, rain, and littering. This pilot study established methods to determine if a trail system is a good implementation to achieve recreation and connectivity goals laid out in the City of Lynchburg’s Tyreeanna & Pleasant Valley Neighborhood Plan. Blackwater Creek watershed, which contains an established trail system, and Fishing Creek watershed, containing a non-established trail system, were the two locations where this study’s methods were conducted. Use of the Virginia GIS Open Access Portal was essential in delineating the boundary lines of the watersheds, pinpointing study sites, and determining recreation access currently available in each watershed. Typical debris found included glass bottles, snack wrappers, tattered clothing, household decor, along with larger items such as couch cushions and traffic cones. Based on the collection results, both the presence of signage, distinguishing the greenway as protected, and the absence of nearby businesses to the waterway helped reduce trash accumulation in Blackwater Creek. With these findings I recommend that recreation development in the Tyreanna and Pleasant Valley section of the City of Lynchburg include signage displaying fines for littering, adding trash collection receptacles, and establishing city operated and protected parks.

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