Couse Creek originates in the mixed rangeland of on the northern flanks of the Blue Mountains of SE Washington and terminates in the Lower Snake River. The creek is designated as a Minor Spawning Area mSA for steelhead and encompasses the watershed from the confluence with the Snake River up into the top of the drainage. The creek supports populations of wild Snake River ESU Steelhead particularly in the lower half of the drainage.
Couse Creek has undergone habitat degradation from the removal of riparian trees, elevated water temperature, channel straightening and floodplain confinement. Limiting factors in Couse Creek have not been identified as part of the plan; however the creek is designated as protection of productive habitat. Protection involves maintenance of existing condition, and the promotion of passive restoration to allow natural healing of habitat.
Habitat actions implemented in this watershed include removal of imminent threats, riparian restoration and protection, upland restoration to prevent sedimentation.