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Instream
restoration projects help to improve North Coast streams
by adding structures that mimic nature. Made primarily of
wood and rock, these structures add complexity to the stream
channel, provide shelter for both juvenile and adult salmonids,
reduce water temperatures, and help to prevent stream bank
erosion.
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Constructing an Instream Structure
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Instream
structures create localized change in channel morphology,
and provide habitat in streams where it is otherwise lacking.
They prevent stream bank erosion by redirecting the force
of the water towards the center of the stream and create
habitat in the form of pools and instream cover.
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An
excavator places rocks and logs to form the structure.
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Rocks
structures are drilled in preparation for anchoring.
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The
rocks are anchored together with cable to withstand
high winter flows.
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A
CCC crew anchoring a deflector on Yager Creek.
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Logs
are anchored to the rock structure with cable and
re-bar.
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Close
up of a completed deflector.
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A
series of deflectors during winter flows.
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Bull
Creek Restoration Project 1999-2004 |
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1999-2004 ERWIG has spent part of each summer working with the
Humboldt Redwoods State Park implementing restoration projects
in Bull Creek. Over
thirty instream structures and riparian planting projects
have been implemented along a four mile stretch of Bull Creek.
These projects have increased boulder, log, and deep-water
cover available to migrating adult and rearing juvenile salmonids;
enhanced spawning gravels, improved water quality by protecting
eroding stream banks; and lowered water temperatures through
the development of a healthy riparian corridor. |
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Vertical
banks have been re-contoured to a more natural slope, and
exposed, barren riparian areas have been planted with willow,
alder, and conifer trees. Willow sprigs were planted, beginning
at the normal bankfull height of the stream, followed by alder
seedlings, and conifers on the floodplain terraces. |
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Approximately 1,500 native fir trees were planted throughout
the project reach. Due to harsh site conditions, protective
mulch and prepared topsoil were used when planting the conifers.
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To contact us:
Phone:
707-725-4317
Fax:
707-725-1086
Email:
info@ERWIG.org
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ERWIG's
work and publications are made possible by funding from the
CA Department of Fish and Game SB 271 Fisheries Restoration
Grant. |
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