Parks and Recreation System Master Plan Update (2016) parks_and_recreation_system_master_plan_update_oct | Page 46

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Peterson Research and Natural Areas Property (LMPRD and Ky. Forestry
Department)
Beargrass Creek
The three forks of Beargrass Creek flow from
the eastern part of Louisville to the Ohio River. The
watershed encompasses nearly one-sixth of Louisville,
supporting the central business, shopping and
entertainment districts along with nearly one-third of its
residential population. It is Louisville’s fourth largest
watershed – draining 61 square miles. In the 1770s early
residents of Louisville and Jefferson County used
Beargrass Creek for drinking, crop irrigation and fishing.
Belknap Bridge, Cherokee Park
As its watershed was developed, it was also used for
waste disposal. Now the Beargrass Creek Watershed is the most urbanized in Louisville other
than the former Paddy’s Run watershed which no longer has any above ground stream.
Beargrass Creek’s woodlands and farms have become neighborhoods, industrial districts, office
centers and entertainment venues. Virtually the entire creek has been channelized, and the
lower reach was relocated entirely from its original location. The creek is in critical condition. It
fails to meet state water quality standards and is unsuitable for fishing or swimming. Because so
much of the watershed is paved or consists of impervious surfaces, storm water runoff is one of
the main contributors to the stream’s poor quality. Nevertheless, Beargrass Creek still plays an
important role in providing wildlife corridors, scenic views and wooded areas that protect
stream banks. Many important park and open space resources are located in the watershed
especially along the Middle and South Forks so the creek is an integral part of Louisville’s park
and open space system.
Muddy Fork
The Muddy Fork of Beargrass Creek Watershed is approximately 9 square miles, and
runs along the Ohio River emptying into the South Fork of Beargrass Creek. It also receives
backwater from the river.
Muddy Fork has several stream segments on the State (303d) list for aquatic life and
recreational impairment. The Kentucky Division of Water (DOW) classifies streams based upon
their potential use, such as whether they may be used for recreational purposes, whether they
support aquatic life, etc. The 303d list identifies streams within Kentucky that do not meet their
designated use or partially fail to meet their designated use.
Due to the intensity of development within this watershed, a relatively high percentage
of this watershed is impervious. There are still a number of poorly performing septic tanks in
this area and a considerable number of lawn chemicals used. This combination results in
moderate to high nutrient levels. Fecal coliform populations exceed pollution standards about a
third of the time. High nutrients, high water fluctuations during storm events, and backwater
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