DESCRIPTION
Through WRIA 2 SRFB RND 07, Wild Fish Conservancy (WFC), received funding to conduct watertyping and spawning surveys in San Juan County. Consequently, several restoration opportunities in the Garrison watershed were identified where changes in the hydrologic regime have caused high stream temperatures, and intermittent summer flows. WFC requested and received funding in SRFB RND 09 to develop preliminary restoration plans focused on increasing adequate flow (to the extent possible) and improving water quality and habitat for all native fish species in the Garrison Creek watershed.
Project objectives were to assess the current floodplain disconnection and hydrologic conditions to develop restoration alternatives which would increase flow, and to develop strategies to improve poor riparian and instream habitat conditions and restore stream connectivity. WFC fulfilled these objectives by completing the following steps:
Step 1. A historical review of the floodplain conditions was documented and analyzed using aerial photographs, traditional and GIS map resources, landowner interviews, historical records, and ground-truthing.
Step 2. Existing relevant baseline data was collected on topography, culvert and fish blockages, water quality, stream flow, and groundwater.
Step 3. A limited number or restoration alternatives were developed. Alternatives focused on the most imperative salmonid limiting factor (water quantity).
Step 4. Collaborators and stakeholders were involved in the process through presentations, group meetings and one-on-one consultation.
Step 5. WFC produced 30% conceptual construction designs.