South bank stream restoration takes advantage of the dry season

From ODOT-

During the summer, the waterways on the south bank of the Willamette River near the bridge construction zone are barely visible.



That makes summer the perfect time to restore and enhance the stream located between the south bank pedestrian path and the river. The improved stream will better collect and cleanse runoff flowing into the river during the rainy months. It will enhance fish habitat and migration, too.





Workers are clearing out overgrowth and creating a new stream channel along the south bank of the Willamette River.



The stream has been flowing through concrete pipes and an overgrown open channel. Fish were having a tough time using the stream, so we installed a temporary fish ladder earlier this year to help fish migrate from the river to Laurel Hill Valley and other points to the south. When stream restoration is complete, the temporary fish ladder will be removed because it will no longer be needed.



We’re clearing brush and other material to create an open channel. Large boulders are being installed along the banks and in the streambed to protect the new drainage and create habitat for stream life. We’ll soon install native plants to help protect the banks from erosion during the winter and provide cooling shade in the summer.





Workers are installing large boulders and rocks in the streambed and making other enhancements to improve riparian habitat.



The new, improved streambed contrasts sharply with the old culvert pipes upstream. The pipes will be removed to improve flow of runoff and restore the drainage to a more natural state.

We’ll continue the restoration and enhancement work farther south to restore wetlands and the upland stream system, resulting in a more natural setting that can better support fish and wildlife habitat.



All the work on the south bank will be finished in early 2014. Just in time for the wettest winter months.