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Southeast Region plans beaver-dam-analog work to restore cutthroat habitat on Gordon Creek tributaries
Summary
DWR requested $73,000 (split between Blue Ribbon and Habitat councils) to install beaver-dam-analog and post-assisted log structures on Bob Wright and Second Water Creeks to restore hydrologic function following the 2012 Seeley fire and support Colorado River cutthroat reestablishment.
Calvin Black, assistant aquatics manager for the Southeast Region, presented a cooperative watershed restoration proposal for Gordon Creek tributaries in Carbon County. The project aims to install beaver-dam analogs (BDAs) and post-assisted log structures to restore channel function and reconnect habitat following the 2012 Seeley fire.
"This drainage was impacted by the 2012 Seeley fire," Black said, noting that upland recovery has progressed and that stream-channel reestablishment is now feasible. He said the plan targets approximately one mile of BDA structures between two streams and installation of PALS in remaining reaches.
Nut graf: The Division seeks $73,000 total (proposed split: $20,000 Blue Ribbon; $53,000 Habitat Council). Work is largely contracted; DWR crews will contribute in-kind for some PALS. The goal is to reestablish stream function and allow reintroduction and recovery of Colorado River cutthroat trout downstream into the Gordon Creek WMA, where the Division holds water rights.
Presenters said this project had been funded previously but was delayed by permitting and contractor scheduling; the Division returned prior-year funding when the contractor could not complete the work before winter. Permitting is now further advanced and the Division expects to start construction in July.
Ending: Partners including Manti-LaSal National Forest and Trout Unlimited are involved in planning and monitoring; presenters asked councils to consider the project again now that permitting and contractor scheduling are resolved.
