Pistol River Hydraulic Model

The Curry Soil and Water Conservation District (Curry SWCD) retained River Design Group, Inc. (RDG) to complete topographic and bathymetric surveys, perform a hydrologic and hydraulic analysis, and to develop and evaluate design concept alternatives for the lower Pistol River near Gold Beach, Oregon. RDG developed design concepts for the project area based on input from Curry SWCD, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW), and landowners within the project area. The design concepts are aimed at meeting project goals for the lower Pistol River including improving habitat for native fish and wildlife such as fall Chinook salmon and winter steelhead, and reducing lateral bank erosion exacerbated by frequent flooding. The results of the hydraulic modeling effort can be used to secure funding for further iterations of restoration project design and for future landowner outreach and engagement.

The product of this technical assistance grant will provide a tool for creating effective solutions for restoration in the project area. Projects identified and developed through use of the tool developed with this grant will benefit salmon and steelhead by improving degraded habitat conditions in the lower Pistol River mainstem and estuary, which are important rearing habitats.