Branch and Derby drain

The Branch & Derby Drain is located in Berrien and Van Buren Counties and flows into Paw Paw Lake.  A multiple year water quality study was conducted on the drain using grab sampling and automated sampling technologies.  The study investigated nutrient and sediment loads to Paw Paw Lake during various rain events. Water quality monitoring results and watershed characteristics were used to make water quality improvement project recommendations for improvement of water quality within the drain.  Initial project management and design work took place for a recommended floodplain reconnection project near the mouth of the drain.  This project involved multiple clients and governing bodies and required significant communication and coordination.