Restoring Scotts Level Branch: A Comprehensive Stream Restoration Project
Kinsley Construction was proud to lead the restoration of Scotts Level Branch in Baltimore County, Maryland, a 9,100-linear-foot project spanning the length of the stream’s upper and lower reaches. Delivered in close collaboration with Baltimore County’s Department of Environmental Protection and Sustainability and RK&K, the project reflects a shared commitment to environmental stewardship and long-term watershed health.
Designed and constructed as a unified effort, the project was carried out through a phased timeline beginning in June 2023. Throughout each phase, our team applied a consistent restoration approach to address chronic flooding, streambank erosion and aging stormwater infrastructure while restoring natural stream processes along the entire corridor.
Shaping the Stream and Supporting the Landscape
Kinsley Construction provided all labor, materials, equipment and services required for the stream restoration and associated storm drain improvements. The restored corridor was designed to mimic natural processes through a continuous sequence of riffles and pools, improving hydraulic performance, long-term stability and erosion control. High-shear stress areas were reinforced with buried rock protection, log sills and channel logs, while floodplain grading lowered elevations and reconnected the stream to its surrounding landscape. This allows storm flows to access the floodplain and reduces flood risk for nearby homes.
Throughout the project our team installed 15,600 tons of various aggregates to enhance riffles and construct underlayment and outfall protection. Our work also included installing 6,500 linear feet of channel and floodplain log sills for grade control. All streambed material was salvaged, and cleared trees were repurposed as root wads, woody debris and structural elements to support nutrient processing and wetland habitats. More than 73,000 cubic yards of excavation shaped the restored floodplain, with excess material exported offsite.
Native vegetation also played a critical role in stabilizing the streambanks and restoring habitats. Planting efforts included 4,100 native trees, 850 shrubs and 6,000 live stakes across both portions of this project. Species included willows, dogwoods, sycamores, oaks and maples selected for riparian resilience and long-term ecological benefits.
Construction sequencing was carefully planned to meet environmental requirements. Crews navigated constrained site access, seasonal in-stream restrictions and winter construction conditions, while coordinating around multiple utility crossings to ensure the project was completed safely and efficiently. To protect fish spawning activity, a seasonal in-stream work restriction went into effect on March 1, 2025. Following winter conditions and environmental requirements, clearing and construction resumed in June 2025 and progressed continuously along the stream corridor.
A Connected Future
Completed in December 2025, the Scotts Level Branch restoration represents a comprehensive, corridor-wide effort that improves stormwater capacity, reduces erosion, restores habitat and protects surrounding communities. By combining innovative design, environmental best practices and experienced field execution, Kinsley Construction has delivered a sustainable solution that will serve Baltimore County for generations to come.
