Umatilla River Basin Anadromous Fish Habitat Enhancement Project: 1990 Annual Report.

Abstract

Treatment areas inc1ude.d the lower 4 miles of Meacham Creek, the lower l/4 mile of Boston Canyon Creek, and the Umatilla River between RM 78.5 and 80. The upper l/2 of the \ Meacham Creek project area including Boston Canyon Creek, which were initially enhanced during 1989, were reentered for maintenance and continued enhancements. Approximately 2,400 cu. yds. of boulders and 1,000 cu. yds. of riprap was used in the construction of in-stream, stream bank and flood plain strclctures and in the anchoring of large organic debris (LOD) placements. In-stream structures we1.e. designeci to increase instream cover and channel stability and develop of a defined thalweg to focus low summer fiows. Flood plain structures were designed to reduce sediment inputs and facilitate deposition on flood plains. Riparian recovery was enhanced through the planting of over 1,000 willow cuttings and 400 lbs. of grass seed mix and through the exclusion of livestock from the riparian corridor with 4.5 miles of high tensile smooth wire fence. Photo documentation and elevational transects were used to monitor changes in channel morphology and riparian recovery at permanent standardized points throughout the projects. Water"quality (temperature and turbidity) data was collected at locations within the project area and in tributaries programmed for future enhancements.. Thanks to CTUIR staff, whose cooperation and contributions are evident in this report. Special thanks to Ken Hall, Melvin Farrow, and Mike McCloud for their long hours of on-theground ,efforts. Gary James provided critical technical review of the project and Joe Richards provided administration of this agreement. Julie Burke and Celeste Reves provided secretarial services.