UmaBirch Floodplain Restoration and In-stream Enhancement (Project Area-4)
The UmaBirch Floodplain Restoration and In-stream Enhancement project aims to restore fish habitat and improve channel morphology and instream processes in the selected project area, which includes Birch Creek from river mile (RM) 0.0 to RM 0.7 and RM 1.8
The goal of the project is to improve instream habitat for Endangered Species Act (ESA) listed and non-listed fish, benefit channel morphology and instream processes, and protect existing infrastructure along Birch Creek. This was achieved by constructing a new main channel, grade stabilization measures, wetlands, modifications to the old channel, and terrace fill. Excavation and fill quantities have been designed to balance, such that no import or export of material shall be required other than large woody material (LWM), boulders, and grade stabilization material. LWM structures will be placed in the new and old channels and across the floodplain. An existing irrigation pipe and associated electrical utility was relocated. Finally, planting and seeding was performed by CTUIR and others to initiate revegetation of the site. The areal extent of disturbance is 35.9 acres. Construction began in October 2023 and completed in December 2025.
