Cameron Creek

Streamside Restoration

Location

Cameron Creek, East Fork Subbasin

Goals

Lower water temperature of Cameron Creek by creating shade with a healthy riparian habitat. 

Reasoning

Cameron Creek is one of the warmest tributaries entering the East Fork of the Bitterroot River. Temperature is an important component of water quality, since most native fish species require cold, clear water. Cameron Creek has been historically de-vegetated, creating a lack of sufficient shading over the creek from streamside trees and shrubs – leading to warmer water and increased streambank erosion.

The plants planted here will form thick webs of roots that hold land together, reducing erosion. Importantly, they will also create shade to keep waters cool for thriving native fish and other aquatic life.

Project Description

The Water Partnership, private landowners, and 75 volunteers planted 1,500 native plants along Cameron Creek. The project also included the installation of 1,000 feet of natural erosion control logs and planting of  1,000+ willow cuttings to help curb erosion of the banks. To protect the plantings from wildlife browse, fencing was installed around the project area.

Additional willow plantings and erosion control logs were added in 2016.

Timeline

2013-2017

Partners

Private Landowners

Cost