Project Objectives:

The overall objective of the project is to improve spring site conditions in the Joseph Creek Watershed, thereby improving riparian and upland conditions and continuing implementation of project recommendations developed through the Upper Joseph Creek Watershed Assessment (see also www.wallowaresources.org/ujc_assessment).  Many of the sites in this proposal were identified by area permittees as priorities for treatment to improve cattle distribution as described in the range section of the assessment.

Specific project objectives are:
• Improve habitat for fish and other wildlife
• Decrease sediment input to steams

Upper and Lower Joseph Creek subwatersheds have been identified as two of the five highest priority Geographic Areas for restoration for the Joseph Creek Steelhead population (Grande Ronde Subbasin Plan, p. 16).  The Key Limiting Factor addressed in this proposal is Sediment.  The Plan also states that restoration in these two subwatersheds will have a large impact on Snake River Steelhead abundance and productivity (p. 17).

Project Description:

Introduction - This project is designed to improve riparian areas and water quality for threatened steelhead and a variety of other wildlife species within the Joseph Creek Watershed.  Twenty-five spring sites are targeted for spring box and trough installation or replacement, trough relocation, and fencing wet or sensitive areas to protect them.  Improving these spring sites will improve cattle distribution, pulling use away from riparian areas by offering clean water in the uplands.

Existing Condition - Throughout the watershed, water from springs was captured using ponds or troughs to provide upland water for livestock.   Over time these sites have become a benefit to the wildlife in the area and are still an important part of livestock management.  Often, they were created without adequate drainage.  Animal use at the site creates "mudhole" conditions, compromising habitat value and, in some cases, contributing to stream sedimentation during intense thunderstorms.  In addition, many of the trough developments are now at the end of their serviceability - time, rusted bottoms, rotten supports and vandalism have compromised their function.

Benefits:

Benefits from this project should include the following:
• Improved streambank stability
• Decreased sediment input to streams
• Improved habitat for a fish and other wildlife

Benefits will be realized in 2-10 years, resulting in improved watershed conditions and habitat for all fish and wildlife over the existing condition.

Project Maintenance:

USFS and range permittees will be responsible for the maintenance of the troughs and fences.

Permits:
ESA consultation and NEPA for this project will be completed by April 2006.