BEFORE AFTER
LOCATION PROJECT DURATION
Piney Creek, Story, Wyoming 2015-2016
MATERIALS
Boulders
MACHINES USED
Side Dump Semis hauled boulders, an Excavator worked to construct the natural channel design structures, and a loader mobilized materials on site.
OBJECTIVE(S)
This was a stream enhancement project which included natural channel design structures predominately for fisheries/macroinvertebrate (aquatic bug) habitat enhancement. By diversifying the pool and riffle sequence the river in this reach can function properly to maintain its habitat features.
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 and enjoy.
BENEFITS OF NATURAL RE-CONNECTIVITY
The proposed design has enhanced the ability 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. This is the area adjacent to the river where the water supports all living things. Here, that includes 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.