Project area is RM 1.2 - 2.3 on E. Chimacum Creek. Objective is to improve salmon habitat and water quality in a low-gradient, channelized, agricultural reach. This reach has very low dissolved oxygen levels during summer (2.8 mg/L recorded at downstream end) due to channel clogged with reed canarygrass and a little functional riparian vegetation. Project will remove canarygrass from channel, re-meander where possible, excavate bank margin pools, anchor LWD in pools/channel and plant trees/shrubs on streambanks to control canarygrass. Stream fencing and off-stream livestock watering systems will be installed where applicable. Anticipated outcomes are higher dissolved oxygen levels, lower fecal coliform and stream temperature levels, improved channel structure, fish habitat and riparian fuction. Improved water quality & habitat will target coho, steelhead & cutthroat directly, and summer chum (they spawn in the lower reach of Chimacum Creek). Project area extends a 1400 reach re-meandered in 1999. Partners include landowners, Wild Olympic Salmon, North Olympic Salmon Coalition and Conservation District. Planning/permitting & some construction in summer 2000; remaining in summer 2001. Riparian vegetation management extends through 2005.
