DESCRIPTION
This action will aim to restore floodplain connectivity, riparian processes, and instream habitat conditions. The primary mechanism for past channel incision has been removal of instream roughness due to loss of instream wood and impairment of riparian processes. Restoration actions should include targeted wood placements to increase channel complexity and restore natural stream grade. Kitsap County acquired 4 parcels totaling 4.8 acres along the right bank of Chico Creek in 2010, including the triangular land area between Chico Creek, Taylor Road, and Dickerson Creek. Additional acquisition of property along the left bank will be required to facilitate restoration of riparian processes and ensure wood placements do not create flood hazards to adjacent landowners. The 3 parcels recommended for acquisition total approximately 4 acres and have an assessed value of about $600,000 per 2012 tax records.
Habitat conditions are degraded from past impacts that have resulted in an incised channel lacking in wood and characterized by low channel complexity with few pool habitats. The relatively flat surface on the inside of the 90 degree bend upstream of the Dickerson Creek confluence represents the pre-settlement floodplain surface prior to channel incision.