Northeastern Region requests $63,000 to finish Lake Canyon stream improvements for cutthroat and mule deer
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Summary
DWR presented Phase 4 work at Lake Canyon WMA: natural-channel restoration, riffle and pool regrading, fish ‘hotels,’ riparian planting and upland meadow reseeding aimed at Colorado River cutthroat trout and improved water access for mule deer and other terrestrial species.
Carson Henkhaus, fisheries biologist in the Northeastern Region, presented a Phase 4 Lake Canyon Watershed proposal. The Lake Canyon Wildlife Management Area project would complete in-stream channel improvements and riparian restoration to benefit Colorado River cutthroat trout and terrestrial species such as mule deer and bighorn sheep.
"We want to create grade-control structures using natural channel design, provide spawning habitat for Colorado River cutthroat trout by enhancing glide features with rock and gravel, and provide overhead cover for juvenile and adult fish by reinstalling fish hotels," Henkhaus said.
Nut graf: Phase 4 continues several prior years of work on about four miles above Lake Canyon Lake. The scope includes two primary components: contract work to remove nuisance stream vegetation and install structural channel features plus riparian plantings and wet mowing to repair upland meadow function.
The request totals about $63,005.50 and covers contracted mastication/brush removal, materials (posts, gravel), motor pool and heavy-equipment rentals, seasonal staff, and seed for reseeding. The region said it has invested multiple prior years into the project and expects Phase 4 to be the final installment.
Ending: Presenters noted opportunities to seek additional contributions from game and habitat groups (e.g., Mule Deer Foundation, Wild Sheep Foundation) and affirmed coordination with regional habitat staff; council members praised the technical approach and asked staff to pursue supplemental funding where available.
