PROJECT OBJECTIVES and PROJECT DESCRIPTION:

Introduction/Existing Conditions:

In the 1980s, log weirs were constructed perpendicular to the stream flow in Fly Creek to create pool habitat.  Pools that were created are typically wide and shallow with very little cover and complexity.  Log weirs have resulted in streambank erosion, creation of a wide and shallow stream channel with very little habitat complexity, and creation of a passage barrier to juvenile salmonids. Average bankfull width within the project area is approximately 25 feet.

This section of Fly Creek has very few pieces of large wood due to historic land use activities which included splash damming. Fly Creek contains spawning and rearing habitat for Snake River steelhead.

Project Objectives:

• Provide juvenile fish passage
• Prevent lateral channel and streambank erosion
• Reduce channel width
• Create habitat complexity in pools

Species Occurrence:  

Fly Creek contains spawning and rearing habitat for Snake River steelhead listed as threatened under the Federal Endangered Species Act.

Benefits:  

This project will improve water quality, improve riparian and floodplain function, enhance fish habitat diversity and complexity, and restore structural elements to the stream channel.