Record-Breaking Tree Planting Project Underway at Zube Park in Cypress
In a landmark environmental initiative, the Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD) is planting a record-breaking 8,300 trees and 2,500 live stakes at the Zube Stormwater Detention Basin in Zube Park, located on Roberts Road in Cypress. This extensive tree planting project represents the largest in HCFCD’s history and aims to enhance flood mitigation, prevent soil erosion, and restore the local ecosystem.
Tree Planting to Strengthen the Local Ecosystem
The newly planted trees will line the bends of the Little Cypress Creek channel, reinforcing embankments and reducing the risk of erosion. In addition, the 2,500 live stakes—locally harvested black willow cuttings—will be directly inserted into the soil, where they will take root and grow into mature vegetation to further stabilize the creek’s banks. These efforts align with natural stable channel design principles, which aim to mimic nature’s ability to transport water and sediment effectively without long-term degradation.
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Zube Stormwater Detention Basin: A Vital Flood Mitigation Effort
The Zube Stormwater Detention Basin (HCFCD Unit L500-01-00) is a key part of the Little Cypress Creek Frontier Program, a regional drainage initiative in northwest Harris County. The basin is designed to reduce flood risks by temporarily holding excess stormwater and gradually releasing it back into the bayou once flood threats subside. The recently completed third phase of construction has expanded the basin’s capacity to hold approximately 835 acre-feet of water—equivalent to more than 272 million gallons—benefiting over 200 homes, 4.5 miles of roadway, and 550 acres in the surrounding community.
A Multi-Phased Approach to Flood Management
The development of the Zube Stormwater Detention Basin has been carried out in three phases. Phase 1, completed in 2016, involved excavation and grading to establish the basin’s foundational structure. Phase 2, finished in 2018, saw the excavation of an additional 101,000 cubic yards of soil and the construction of a weir (spillway) structure that also serves as a pedestrian crossing within Zube Park’s expanding trail system.
HCFCD crews planting a record-setting number of trees at Zube Stormwater Detention Basin. (Source: HCFCD)The recently completed Phase 3, which began in March 2022, included lowering the flow line of Little Cypress Creek by six feet, incorporating 9,300 feet of natural stable channel design features, and expanding the detention basin through the excavation of approximately 563,940 cubic yards of material. This phase also introduced three stormwater quality basins, expanded bridge capacities at Becker and Roberts roads, and improved drainage connectivity to nearby park features and parking lots.
Environmental and Community Benefits
Beyond flood mitigation, the large-scale tree planting project and natural channel restoration will contribute to long-term environmental sustainability. The trees and vegetation will improve water quality by filtering pollutants, enhance biodiversity by creating wildlife habitats, and provide recreational and aesthetic benefits to park visitors. Additionally, the newly reinforced creek banks will be more resilient against erosion, reducing the need for costly maintenance in the future.
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Collaboration for a Sustainable Future
The success of the Zube Stormwater Detention Basin project has been made possible through partnerships between HCFCD, EHRA Engineering, Harris County Precinct 4, and federal agencies, including the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Extensive coordination with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers ensured compliance with environmental regulations, while input from the Harris County Community Services Division helped optimize the project’s impact.
A Model for Future Stormwater Management Projects
The Zube Stormwater Detention Basin and its accompanying reforestation efforts demonstrate the potential of integrating flood control infrastructure with ecological restoration. As Harris County continues to invest in stormwater management solutions, this project serves as a model for balancing flood resilience, environmental conservation, and community enhancement.
With its record-setting tree planting initiative and commitment to sustainable flood control, HCFCD is taking a proactive approach to protecting both people and natural resources. As these trees grow, they will stand as a lasting symbol of resilience, sustainability, and environmental stewardship.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
