BEFORE AFTER
LOCATION PROJECT DURATION
Little Goose Creek, Sheridan, Wyoming 2018-2019
MATERIALS
Boulders
MACHINES USED
Side Dump Semis hauled boulders from 15 miles away and 1 Excavator worked to implement the natural channel design structures.
OBJECTIVE(S)
This was a bank stabilization specific project. (Other objectives included: proper sediment transport, fisheries habitat, macroinvertebrate or bug habitat, etc.) Steady Stream was contacted by the landowner after noticing how much of his beautiful yard was being eaten away by the river causing an insufficient transport of sediment. The severity of the erosion was also such that the very steep banks along his yard were collapsing into the river in large chunks, thereby creating an unsafe yard for his children.
WHY IT WAS IMPORTANT TO THE CLIENT
The client bought the property to be able to enjoy the river and when the erosion caused steep, inaccessible banks, the river became dangerous. Part of the design incorporated sloped banks, not just for functionality of the river, but safety and access for recreation.
BENEFITS OF NATURAL RE-CONNECTIVITY
The proposed design allowed for the river to naturally utilize its floodplain while appropriately eroding and depositing where this stream would in its stable state. 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 like this one.
SUSTAINABILITY
Erosion in this particular section of river over-widened the channel which directly affected its water quality. By returning the river to its stable dimensions the river is more desirable for fish and bug species to thrive.
WILDLIFE HABITAT
Stream Restoration, like what has be done on this property, connects the river with its riparian area. This is the area adjacent to the river where the water supports all living things. If water can be accessed, life is sustained.
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.