DESCRIPTION
This project completed fish passage improvements to 2,244 feet of the two mile-long Mill Creek flood control channel. Modifications of the concrete channel provided depth and velocity conditions favorable to passage of Mid-Columbia summer steelhead, bull trout, and spring Chinook. Under pre-project conditions, returning adults encountered velocities that were too high for too long of a distance, without any resting opportunities. To improve passage, part of the existing channel was cut and removed. Pre-cast "roughness panels" replaced the removed concrete. The roughness panels have block-shaped projections which create friction in the water, slowing it to a velocity that the fish can swim for the full distance of the project. Resting pools were also added as an additional measure. During low flow, under pre-project conditions, baffles in the channel created hydraulic conditions that were a barrier to juveniles. The baffles were removed and replaced with new baffles that were sized and spaced to provide volitional passage for juveniles.
This project scope had been amended to reduce the project footprint due to rising construction costs, however the sponsor was able to find outside funding after the amendment was approved to finish the original project scope.