BEFORE AFTER
LOCATION PROJECT DURATION
Big Goose Creek, Sheridan, Wyoming 2019-2020
MATERIALS
Boulders, Logs
MACHINES USED
Side Dump Semis hauled boulders from 8 miles away, Excavators worked to construct the natural channel design structures, and Loaders mobilized materials on site.
OBJECTIVE(S)
This was a stream enhancement project which included natural channel design structures for bank stabilization, fisheries/macroinvertebrate (aquatic bug) habitat, etc. On this particular section of river, the client sought to minimize future bank erosion and restore any impaired reaches back to their stable state through the use of natural structures. By diversifying the pool and riffle sequence the main objectives were met and has allowed the river to function properly to maintain itself.
WHY IT WAS IMPORTANT TO THE CLIENT
The client bought the property and built his home to be able to enjoy the river. The design incorporated natural channel design structures, sloped banks and other instream features, not just for functionality of the river, but for access to recreate.
BENEFITS OF NATURAL RE-CONNECTIVITY
The proposed design allowed for the river to naturally utilize its floodplain and provide habitat in the stream and along the riparian corridor. Connecting the river to the floodplain and its many necessary features provides stability to all the flora and fauna in any type of river ecosystem.
SUSTAINABILITY
By returning the river to its stable dimensions, in the long-term, it can biologically support life in and around it.
WILDLIFE HABITAT
Doing Stream Restoration connects the river with its riparian area in most projects…. Or at least it is one of the main goals. This is the area adjacent to the river where the water supports all living things. Specifically, here, it is turkey, deer, ducks, geese, fish, turtles, frogs, etc.
WHAT WOULD HAPPEN IF THE RIVER/HABITAT WAS NOT FIXED
If this project had not been complete the river would continue a pattern of unstable motions leading to warmer temperatures and ultimately decrease in river function and maintenance of proper habitat for wildlife: aquatic and terrestrial.