"J" (Johnson) Creek Confluence Side Channel Project

The J Johnson Creek Side Channel Reconnection project aims to increase available perennial off-channel habitat by reconnecting and enhancing a remnant side-channel in the lower Clackamas River downstream of Carver. The project is needed to enhance connectivity between the river and the side channel which will allow for longer duration rearing by juvenile salmonids in a complex side channel as opposed to the mainstem river. Large wood placement throughout the side channel will create pools and improve habitat complexity for rearing juveniles. Additionally, the project involves riparian planting with native vegetation and invasive plant removal along Johnson Creek. Plant stewardship activities (reported as C.11 - Site Maintenance) will be conducted for up to 3 years after the plantings are completed. The stewardship activities will ensure the success of the project plantings by helping plants achieve free-to-grow status. Project partners include the U.S Forest Service, Oregon Dept. of Fish & Wildlife, and the Clackamas Partnership.

The restoration actions funded with PCSRF funds were completed in November 2023 and reported to OWEB. The project remains open because of ongoing plant stewardship.

PCSRF FFY 2019 funds were expended on project costs incurred during the PCSRF FFY 2019 contract award period. OWEB state funds and Other sources of funds and in-kind contributions will be used to complete the project. No funds are reported as match to PCSRF funds.

The project will increase the amount of available side-channel habitat in the Lower Clackamas River by providing rearing area for juvenile salmonids moving downstream from the upper basin or spawning habitat in lower basin tributaries, as well as the mainstem river. The primary goal of the project is to increase the inundation frequency and duration of the channel that is currently perched from the mainstem Clackamas River. By constructing an apex jam and placing large wood, this project help restore off-channel function at the site, enhance existing alcoves and allow fish more access to side channels, and encourage longer duration and higher frequency of flows through the existing side channel.