Project/Contract History:
The Restore McComas Meadows/Meadow Creek Watershed project (1996-077-05) has been an on-going project of the Nez Perce Tribe Fisheries Watershed Program since 1996.  This project is being completed in cooperation with the Nez Perce National Forest (NPNF).  The ultimate goal of the project is to restore the physical and biological characteristics of the watershed to provide quality habitat for anadromous and resident fish species that support the historical, cultural and economic practices of the Nez Perce Tribe.  The Meadow Creek watershed contains proposed critical habitat for listed species steelhead trout and potential critical habitat for bull trout; it has moderate habitat potential for spring Chinook salmon.  Restoration in this watershed focuses on restoring riparian processes by addressing increased water temperatures, increased sedimentation, cattle grazing affects, fish passage issues, and noxious weed infestations.  Previously completed contract work includes 3 culvert replacements, 20 miles of road decommissioning, installation of riparian vegetation cages, over 18,000 riparian trees planted, installation and maintenance of 5 miles of fence, re-contouring of the McComas Meadow ditch, and continued monitoring and evaluation and revegetation surveys.

Summary of FY 2007 Contract Work:
This project is part of the Nez Perce National Forest-Nez Perce Tribe Watershed Restoration Partnership with in kind contributions from the Nez Perce National Forest.   This contract includes funding for the Orchard Creek decommissioning portion of this project only, $105,000, the balance of funding and work elements are included in a separate NPT contract, $226,259. This year's new contract work will include:

A) road decommissioning-
Road densities in the Meadow Creek watershed are 4.6 miles per square mile, the highest road density in the South Fork Clearwater subbasin (USDA Forest Service 1998).  This project will decommission 15 miles of road within Orchard Creek by re-contouring roads back to natural topography and de-compacting landing areas which will reduce surface erosion and sediment delivery to streams.  The work will include removal of culverts, installation of waterbars, re-sloping water crossings to natural gradient, or full recontour of the road prism.  The Nez Perce Tribe, under their own, separate contract will assist the Nez Perce National Forest with bid package development, bid review, contractor selection, technical oversight during construction, and final inspection.