June 2015.
No one wishes for a flood (see footnote), but the recent record rains did much to improve the appearance of Joe’s Creek, scouring the creekbed to wash away much of the unsightly algae and silt. When can you recall seeing the sun cast the shadows of foliage onto the rock creek bed, through clear water?
The water just north of Alta Vista bridge was clear enough so that one could see some color and striped markings on the minnows and small fish there. These clear conditions remind us of the natural potential of the creek, for the moment without the effects of chemicals, excess fertilizers, pesticides, and other elements common to urban storm runoff. Take a look soon if you have not already done so.
The rain was not without problems for the creek, however, as several NPNA neighbors noticed the overfow from manhole covers of the sanitary sewer system at several locations near the creek. City staffers have indicated that the cause will be investigated, possibly including some smoke testing to locate specific faults or breaks in the lines. Because of the volume of the rain fall, fortunately most of the overflow was storm water runoff.
Footnote: Channel Five Chief Meteorologist David Finfrock recently quoted his mentor and predecessor, legendary Texas weatherman Harold Taft, who once said, “The only way to end a drought is with a flood.”
Vince Punaro