Tucannon PA 14.1 Design

The design is to re-establish connection with a major historic channel by elevating the existing channel and restoring floodplain connection to 25 acres of floodplain and relic channels downstream.  The main features of the design move 4 power poles located in the proposed historic channel (B), construct channel ELJs in the channel B. Remove gravel from old deposit site (in the project area) and add it to the existing channel (A)as part of a series of roughened channels designed to elevate the channel and reconnect historic channel B (& C), and for gravel augmentation for both Channel A & B. The deposit site removal will also expand the available floodplain in the project reach.  There is, at least, one other channel (C) reconnection and a series of ELJ structures in channel A.  The project design and construction are focused within a small footprint but adds flow and floodplain connection over a much larger area.

The main goal of the project is to establish a channel configuration more in line with a stage 8 configuration. The goal to reestablish multiple connected channels will provide more surface water habitat for fish and add stream length that will help reduce stream power at high flows. Reducing stream power will help improve habitat complexity and more diverse opportunities for the different life stages of ESA fish populations in the Tucannon River. We anticipate improvements in spawning and rearing that include important adult cover and off channel rearing that is limited in this reach. The project impact is smaller than the area it will provide a response.