Lazy J Cross Ranch

Streamside Restoration

Location

Fifth generation family ranch on the East Fork of the Bitterroot River in the Sula Basin

Goals

Reduce hazardous/high water temperatures, reduce sediment pollution, and protect stream banks of the East Fork.

Reasoning

The East Fork is well known to face degradation such as high water temperatures, sediment pollution, and bank erosion. The Water Partnership restored riparian habitat to help address these detriments, and to create shaded streams that keep waters cool enough for native fish to thrive.

Project Description

Water Partnership volunteers helped plant 410 feet of streambank with mature willow transplants, live willow stems, and hundreds of nursery plants. Then, a riparian fence was installed to protect the newly planted riparian area and existing plants from browsing wildlife.

Timeline

2017-2023

Partners

The Wetzsteon Family, Geum Environmental Consulting, Great Bear Native Plants, Full Moon Trails,  Skyline Fencing, Massa Home Center

Cost

$54,000