The goal of the Methow Riparian program is to achieve properly functioning riparian conditions. Land use practices and past flood events and treatments have resulted in 1) degraded riparian conditions, 2) elevated stream temperatures, and 3) elevated fine sediment in the Methow mainstem and its tributaries.  Riparian enhancement projects are being proposed to recover watershed processes and functions associated with healthy native plant communities.

Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) and the Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) need to fulfill FCRPS BiOp metric goals, including 12 miles for riparian enhancement.  To help BPA and Reclamation meet these goals, MSRF has identified actions to be undertaken. The projects will be implemented by the Methow Salmon Recovery Foundation (MSRF) or a qualified sub-contractor.  For purposes of calculating metric distance, each side of the stream contributes to the metric, such that one mile of riparian enhancement on both sides of the stream provides two miles of metric for riparian enhancement.  Acreage enhanced by the project should also be determined.  

Riparian enhancement projects include streambank stabilization and riparian treatments such as installing fencing or reconstructing existing fencing.   Projects will generally involve installing exclusion fencing and/or new planting to establish a riparian buffer.  Except in areas of active grazing, exclusion fencing areas shall be established based on observed need and will not prevent access to the stream by native wildlife.  All vegetation projects will use native species; include vegetation management strategies that are consistent with the local topography and climate; specify seed and plant sources; and use only certified noxious weed-free mulch.  Fence projects will be implemented in conjunction with a prescribed grazing plan (for properties with continued grazing and conservation easements) to minimize impacts to the riparian area and streambanks.  Riparian buffers will generally range from 35 to 100 feet wide.

This is a multi-year project. The general background information presented in the first year riparian contract remains valid.

Year 3 proposed contract elements:
The third year work will encompass two general types of activities: 1) maintenance and/or new treatments at sites initially treated under the first 2 contracts; and 2) first year treatment on new sites added under this Year 3 contract.

The sites listed below will have additional plantings, and/or maintenance / management activities. MSRF will continue to work with sub-contractors to complete prescribed work elements.  Tasks may include continued assessment of treatments completed, replacing / maintaining previous improvements, establishing additional new plantings with cage protection, and installing new exclosure pods. Maintenance of areas established under a previous contract will be completed under WE 22 Maintain Vegetation.

Methow River: Pigott / Boesel site, continued
                                Heath Big Valley, continued
Twisp River: Daudon / Twisp River Properties LLC site, continued,
                                Twisp River MSRF site, continued,
                                Post conservation site, continued
Chewuch River: MacPherson / DeLange site, continued
                                Satiqua Park / PUD access site, new riparian enhancement, maintenance of previously established vegetation

Sites added under this Year 3 contract will undergo evaluation and assessment, and new plantings / protection. Tasks will include actions shown to be effective in successfully re-establishing riparian vegetation; i.e., protect new plantings with wire cages, use temporary irrigation systems to maximize survival rates, and establish "exclosure" pods to protect new plantings as well as naturally regenerating riparian vegetation.

Methow River:         Childers, project area and treatment plan to be developed under this contract
                                Fine, project area and treatment plan to be developed under this contract
Chewuch River:       Bulldog, project area and treatment plan to be developed under this contract

Chosen sub-contractors will work under MSRF guidance to develop planting plans, implement the plans, maintain plantings / fencing protection, and assess the effectiveness of treatment actions.