This project will establish or improve riparian buffers along streams in the Puyallup River Watershed by utilizing two existing programs at the Pierce Conservation District. Technicians from the Farm Assistance program will work with landowners to prepare a riparian buffer planting plan. All planting plans are written according to USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service specifications and standards. Stream Team will hire WCC crews for site prep, order materials, and coordinate volunteers to plant the buffer. This grant proposal consists of purchasing plant materials, protective devices to increase survival and time from the Washington Conservation Corps to assist in site preparation. Many times, private landowners are interested in improving riparian conditions, but lack the funds and resources to do so. For example, many landowners do not qualify for the Conservation Reserve Enhancement program that provides eligible landowners with cost-share dollars to establish streamside buffers. This proposal accommodates those landowners who are not eligible to receive financial help from state and federal programs. Trees and shrubs have potential to benefit salmon in many ways. They provide shade to cool waters in the summer and provide root strength to prevent stream bank erosion. They contribute leaf litter as a food source, and once grown, fall into the stream providing many benefits to juvenile salmon.
