Committee hears multi-year Ames Creek restoration plan funded by DEQ supplemental project

Park and Tree and Beautification Committee members were updated July 16 on a multi-year Ames Creek restoration that will use funds derived from a Department of Environmental Quality supplemental environmental project tied to a wastewater-plant enforcement action. City staff said the original fine was roughly $22,000; after negotiations the city paid $4,700 and the remaining funds were directed into an approved restoration project administered with the South Santiam Watershed Council. Staff described the first-year work as mowing and mulching invasive reed canary grass and blackberry, applying natural fabric over large flat areas to suppress regrowth, and placing logs and mulch to hold fabric in place through the winter. Crews will spray targeted bank vegetation where necessary, keep trees and important riparian shade intact, and then plan replanting in subsequent years. Public-works staff said clearing has already opened substantial land near the senior center and that the project could create a new park-like area once invasives are controlled; they emphasized the work is multiyear and requires coordination with the watershed council and DEQ. No vote was recorded; staff asked the committee to help with outreach and monitoring as the multi-year project proceeds.