Assessments
Stream assessments can provide answers to ecological issues and concerns, define restoration goals and outline options for reaching those goals. Multiple landowner participation over a broad geographical area allows for a more cohesive and coordinated approach to restoration for greater benefit to all involved.
Fox Creek Assessment
Landowners approached the NFJDWC for advice on how to restore function to nearly 20 miles of Fox Creek. Historical channel modifications had resulted in stream down-cutting, diminished groundwater table and fish passage barriers. It was decided that a geomorphologic assessment was needed to determine what could be done and how best to proceed with restoration efforts that could ultimately improve conditions for landowners and the fish and wildlife who utilize this important tributary of the North Fork of the John Day.
The assessment area starts at the headwaters of Fox Creek in the Malheur National Forest and goes to its confluence with Cottonwood Creek. Fox Creek ranks high as a priority stream for restoration. One project, a channel restoration, is already underway and others are in development.
Significant funding came from the Bella Vista Foundation and the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board. The NFJDWC, landowners, and the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation also contributed to this assessment.