The short block of Banks Street between Goldsboro and Mercer Streets was once home to Andrew Townsend‘s home and grocery store, as well as the first location of Trinity A.M.E. Zion church. Hominy Swamp crosses the block from Goldsboro to Mercer, and a tiny branch of that waterway, little more than a ditch, meanders off toward Banks.

As sluggish and unimpressive as the Hominy usually appears, it has repeatedly wreaked flooding havoc across southeast Wilson.

I recently spotted these placards along Banks Street:

The City of Wilson’s press release on Park-Mercer Wetland:

In the heart of Wilson, North Carolina, an exciting and innovative stormwater management project is taking shape. The Park-Mercer Wetland, situated as a tributary to Hominy Creek just outside Historic Downtown Wilson, is set to become a shining example of how municipalities can tackle stormwater challenges while fostering environmental sustainability. This project, in partnership with the NC State University Bio and Ag Engineering program, is not only transforming the local landscape but also providing valuable insights into water quality management.

Why Park-Mercer Wetland Matters

Wetlands are nature’s filtration systems, and their importance within municipalities cannot be overstated. They play a pivotal role in mitigating the impacts of urbanization and improving water quality. As our cities grow, managing stormwater runoff becomes increasingly critical to prevent pollution and flooding. This is where wetlands step in.

The Science Behind Park-Mercer Wetland 

What makes the Park-Mercer Wetland project particularly fascinating is its collaboration with the NC State University Bio and Ag Engineering program. Together, they are conducting vital water quality testing to determine the nitrogen concentration in the water flowing out of downtown Wilson. This data is essential for establishing how long the water needs to be in contact with wetland vegetation to effectively reduce nitrogen levels.

Catch and Release Design: A Flow-Based Solution

The Park-Mercer Wetland project is designed with a ‘catch and release’ concept, emphasizing a flow-based approach to stormwater management. In essence, this means that water will be temporarily detained within the wetland, allowing it to interact with the native vegetation. This interaction is a crucial step in removing pollutants like nitrogen from the water.

The Impact on Wilson’s Community

So, why should the residents of Wilson be excited about the Park-Mercer Wetland project? The benefits are manifold:

1. Improved Water Quality: By naturally filtering and purifying stormwater runoff, the wetland will enhance the quality of water flowing into Hominy Creek and, ultimately, our local waterways.
2. Flood Mitigation: The wetland will help manage excessive stormwater during heavy rainfall, reducing the risk of flooding in our community.
3. Biodiversity: Wetlands are home to a diverse range of plants and wildlife. The Park-Mercer Wetland will contribute to biodiversity and offer opportunities for residents to connect with nature.
4. Educational Opportunities: Through partnerships with educational institutions like N.C. State University, the wetland project becomes a living classroom, fostering research, learning, and engagement with environmental science.

Photos by Lisa Y. Henderson, May 2024; aerial via Google Maps.