Ryan Creek Off-Channel Coho Habitat Implementation Project

Project elements included construction of a 1.14 acre pond/alcove that overflows to a streamside alcove and into Ryan Creek. Construction included installing 18 large wood structures in the mainstem of Ryan Creek. The project started by conducting fish removal and relocation activities. This was followed by creating a clearwater diversion at the feeder stream culvert. Once the project area was dewatered, construction access was created and excavation of the pond was initiated. The only grading deviations from the plans were near the center of the ponded area

where they were slightly adjusted to protect a very large spruce tree. Spoils were endhauled to a low gradient hillside approximately 0.5 miles north of the project area. Once the grading was complete, large wood was added to the pond and alcove area, including several grade control structures that lay between the threshold of the pond and alcove. The last steps in the project included replanting.

Increase connectivity to off-channel aquatic habitat that is currently mostly disconnected. Increase the area available for rearing and benefit juvenile coho salmon by reducing competition pressures and increase access to food sources and new aquatic habitat. Project may serve as rearing habitat during out-migrant periods even when flood flows are not occurring. Woody debris structures will be constructed to increase habitat complexity and cover for juvenile coho salmon.