Salmon Creek - Salmonid Habitat Enhancement with Accelerated Recruitment (SHEAR)

A licensed timber contractor fell conifer trees from the riparian into or adjacent to the stream channel. After falling, trees were moved into desired positions using a griphoist. Once in position, trees were anchored if necessary. Log structures were positioned to scour pools, provide cover and capture gravel. The completed project includes 19 features made up of a total of 42 pieces of large wood. In the winter following project completion, 600 willow cuttings and 200 redwood seedlings were planted in areas where riparian trees were lacking.

An assessment of a 1.1 mile reach identified locations where LWD installation would be appropriate and where it would be beneficial to salmonids. This project will install 19 LWD structures based on that assessment. The structures will provide cover for adult and juvenile salmonids and will increase shelter complexity. The structures are designed to capture additional small woody debris and LWD, further adding complexity and setting the foundation for natural wood recruitment.