Upper Hayden Creek Conservation Easements

The Upper Hayden Creek Conservation Easements (CEs) were proposed to develop and implement two CEs held by Lemhi Regional Land Trust (LRLT), protecting 152 acres and 0.75 miles of Hayden Creek, a tributary of the Lemhi River. The focus of the CEs was protecting Hayden Creek and its surrounding riparian area by limiting the subdivision and development rights on the property and other uses which would be detrimental to the fisheries and riparian habitat on Hayden Creek. Due to a variety of factors, the project was narrowed to focus on one worksite, encompassing 62 acres and 0.52 miles of Hayden Creek. This CE was not completed in this contract period, however due diligence actions such as include a baseline documentation report, an Appraisal, Survey, Minerals Report, Phase I report, and Title Report. The CE is expected to close in late 2024 under PCSRF project 022 23 SA. This project received an amendment to change the scope of work, decrease the award value, and extend the contract period.

The proposed conservation easements will prohibit most future development on the properties, specifically any activities that may degrade fish and riparian habitat on Hayden Creek. This project will also help facilitate and protect future habitat restoration work on Hayden Creek, specifically enhancing Chinook salmon spawning and rearing habitat. This project provides a cumulative benefit by extending the corridor of habitat protection surrounding Hayden Creek beyond existing conservation easements, such that upon completion of this project, approximately 60% of the private lands on Hayden Creek will be protected from development and monitored into perpetuity for compliance with activities supporting fish habitat protection and enhancement.