Since 1914, Condit Dam at RM 3.2 has blocked anadromous fish in the White Salmon River. By agreement, the dam will be removed in 2006, opening 30-40 miles of salmon habitat. Since 1993, a watershed council has worked to enhance water quality and habitat to prepare the basin for recolonization by spring and fall chinook, coho, steelhead, lamprey, and sea-run cutthroat. Watershed analyses within the White Salmon have defined factors limiting fish production, water quality, riparian zones and other aspects of ecosystem health (UCD 1994, Stampfli 1994, USFS 1996, USFS 1997, USFS 1998, Champion Pacific, 1997 and WACC 1999). One factor is excess fine sedimentation, limiting the quality of gravel beds for spawning fish. Erosion from off-road vehicle use on 399 acres of utility corridors is a key source of fine sediment in the White salmon basin. The Klickitat PUD and Underwood Conservation District propose gating to block unauthorized access to approximately 30 miles of PUD corridors. PUD will survey its corridors within the basin to identify critical sites and install 15 access-limiting gates. Grant dollars will purchase gates, monitoring and signs educating the public on the project. PUD will survey sites and install gates as in-kind payment. Anticipated outcomes/benefits are reduction of fine sediment for anadromous fish spawning. Species benefited are listed above. UCD will monitor soil stabilization and vegetation response. Expected cost is $69,810.
