Permits & Forms
This is a collection of regulated waterbody-related permits and forms pertaining to projects near streams, rivers and lakes.
Before you begin, please see:
Green Infrastructure
Water Pollution & Green Infrastructure
As the rain falls and the snow melts, that water eventually ends up in our streams, lakes, and rivers. Along the way, it can pick up pollutants from roads, parking lots, and the ground. This is called nonpoint source pollution. When these pollutants end up in our waters, it can have a major effect on our health, our water quality, and our salmon.
With water all around us, what can we do about that? Consider implementing green infrastructure! Green infrastructure techniques such as rain gardens and bioswales are designed to mimic the natural water cycle and absorb the water where it falls, soaking up water and filtering pollutants before they end up in our lakes, rivers, and streams.
From private rain gardens to major urban planning - anyone can utilize green infrastructure techniques!
Non-Point Source Pollution
Non-point source pollution is the most significant source of pollution overall in the country. Polluted runoff can make humans sick, harm aquatic life, damage aquatic habitat, and reduce the capacity of water resources to be used for drinking and recreation.
Rain Garden and signage at the River Center
What Can You Do?
There are several techniques that Alaskans are already using to reduce runoff and improve water quality in their watersheds:
Planting
Another great option to support riparian habitat across the Kenai River watershed is to plant native vegetation. Native plants require less maintenance because they are used to Alaskan soils and climate. In addition, they provide food and shelter for our birds, bees, and butterflies.
Rain Gardens
Rain gardens are beautiful and affordable solutions that anyone can use to reduce water pollution from runoff. A rain garden is a flower garden that dips toward the center, and is designed to collect and clean the water running off your roof or lawn. The water can slowly filter into the ground instead of running off of your property - keeping our rivers clean and our salmon healthy!
Bioswales
Bioswales are essentially long, narrow rain gardens that use vegetation or mulch to slow and filter runoff. While commonly used near curbs and parking lots, they can also be used in tight developments where the space between buildings is narrow.
Land Conservation
Impervious surfaces are hardened surfaces and structures that increase runoff. The most effective and affordable way to protect our waters is to preserve the natural buffers that exist—such as wetlands and riparian habitat. By conserving these areas, it ensures they can continue absorbing and filtering runoff.
Downspout Connections
This simple practice is designed to reroute water coming off your roof, and direct it into rain barrels, cisterns, gardens, or other permeable areas.
Example of downspout connection using a rain barrel.
Additional Resources
ADEC Nonpoint Source Water Pollution Prevention & Restoration ADEC Nonpoint Source Water Pollution Prevention & Restoration
EPA Green Infrastructure
Erosion Handout
Green Infrastructure Handout
Publications
River Center Publications
Free Book, DVD and CD-ROM for Waterfront Property Owners!
Are you a waterfront property owner with questions about the best way to protect your property from bank trampling and excessive erosion? Have you wondered how you can help to safeguard the river - and the salmon - that you love? The Kenai River Center can help!
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On the Coast provides an introduction to property management along the coastal region. It is a companion to On the River for our coastal property owners. You can download the book here (large download). |
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On the River provides an introduction to waterfront property management. It will guide you through the basics of developing a plan for your property, taking into consideration your location, the level of use you plan for and the goals you hope to achieve. You will learn how to manage your property to protect both your investment and the natural resources that make it such a special place. There are chapters on river dynamics, wetlands, floodplains, choosing your building site, wells and groundwater, living with wildlife, laws property owners should be aware of and more. Full-color illustrations and photographs accompany each section. You can download the book here (large download). |
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Our 26-minute DVD provides a general introduction to river dynamics and riverfront property management. It guides property owners through the basics of developing a plan for your property investment, taking into consideration: - Your location on the river (a high outside bend, a straight reach next to a popular fishing hole, or a quiet, sheltered area?) - The level of use you plan for (are you there only a couple weeks a year, or running a year-round B&B?) - The goals you hope to achieve (major restoration or just protecting what is already there?) |
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Our CD-ROM explores restoration and access methods in more detail. Short video clips discuss each method and help you decide what is appropriate for your project. You will learn the basic techniques involved in installing spruce tree revetments, brush layering and root wads. "Step by Step" instructions for each method can also be downloaded and printed from the CD-ROM. In addition, you will learn some basics about floodplains, wetlands, high bluffs and determining the Ordinary High Water mark. Stairways, floating docks and walkways are discussed, as is the permitting process and financial programs that are available to assist you with bank restoration and protection projects. |
