Sandy-Salmon Floodplain Reconnection Phase II

This project was terminated due to financial and social complications. A cultural resources survey, weed control, wetland delineation, amphibian survey, and community outreach were conducted prior to the termination due to local community concerns.

The Sandy River basin represents critical habitat and a recovery focus for ESA threatened Lower Columbia River salmon and steelhead. Along with spring and fall Chinook, coho and steelhead, the Sandy supports a threatened population of Pacific Eulachon, lamprey, sturgeon, and a variety of other native aquatic species.

Proposed restoration outcomes of restored floodplain and side channel habitat, riparian condition and habitat complexity will directly improve resiliency for by addressing biological limiting factors for salmonids, and reducing community and infrastructure risk. Floodplain reconnection and installation of large engineered log jams can dissipate river energy and potentially reduce erosion and flood impacts. Improving floodplain connectivity can help maintain stream temperatures by connecting groundwater and stream flow during low flow periods, as well as providing temperature and flow refugia for migrating juvenile fish.

Installing engineered log jams and grade control structures will accelerate habitat formation that is in its early stages, about 2 years after periodic flows began cutting through the punctured levee to form the new floodplain side channel. The project will add to basin-scale stepping stone connectivity between restored habitats upstream and downstream of the project site, help build an informed community that recognizes risk associated with channel migration, and demonstrate to residents and land management agencies how large scale restoration can support community vitality. Project actions will extend habitat enhancements begun in 2019 on public lands in the lower floodplain, completing recommended improvements at this location.