Description: The Upper Chehalis Basin includes the mainstem Chehalis River upstream of the confluence of the South Fork Chehalis River and the East and West Fork Chehalis River. The headwaters begin in the southeast corner of Lewis County and flows at a low gradient through steep-sided valleys until the confluence with Elk Creek, where the valley opens. This entire area is in timber production and has an extensive road network that predates Forest Practices regulations. There were two splash dams built on the Chehalis River, one above Fisk Falls and the other below the confluence of Crim Creek. In each of these areas, the impact of the splash dams result in channels incised and scoured with a lack of gravel and large woody debris. Downstream of Pe Ell, timber production remains the dominant feature, but farms and rural residences are scattered throughout this reach. Most of the small tributaries are moderately steep with cascades near their mouths. The larger tributaries have moderate gradients. Most of these subbasins are forested, although farmlands frequent the lower reaches of Elk Creek. Major Tributaries: Elk, Rock Crim, Big, Thrash, and Cinnebar Creeks and the West Fork Chehalis River. Land Uses: Forestry and agriculture Anadromous Fish Stocks: Fall Chinook, Spring Chinook, coho, cutthroat trout, and winter steelhead