WATERSHED CONSULTING, LLC
Watershed Evaluation and Ecological Restoration

Voice (406) 862-3565 Fax (406) 862-4341
Email info@watershedconsulting.com

410 Wisconsin Ave, Whitefish MT 59937-2124 USA
  

CHANNEL DESIGN AND RESTORATION

Services Offered:
Streambank Stabilization
Fish Habitat Enhancement
Hillslope treatment
Road Stabilization and Design
Riparian Restoration
Stream Reconstruction

Stream Restoration and Streambank Stabilization

Watershed Consulting's restoration designs are based on natural geomorphic stability concepts as developed by L. Leopold and others, and as pioneered in practice by D. Rosgen. However, we go beyond that. In furthering the science of stream habitat dynamics, we use a concept of floodprone width re-setting flows - flows that periodically re-juvenate channels of certain stream types. In contrast to the work of other practitioners of our science, we recognize that periodic floods do, through erosion and deposition, create new aquatic habitats. These flows are as important for high quality fish and riparian habitat and channel maintenance as is the bankfull flow.

Streambank stabilization is a major factor in stream restoration. Rootwad revetment with re-vegetation is our preferred and cost-effective streambank stabilization method, providing immediate fish habitat in addition to stable banks. All our designs follow a watershed assessment. Hillslope treatments, road stabilization and design, and riparian and complete stream reconstruction projects are commonly included in our restoration designs.

Watershed Consulting identifies those variables important to fish health in restoration projects. Width-depth ratio, pool-riffle ratio, residual pool depth, appropriate large woody debris loading and sinuosity are channel features that are important components of fish habitat. Restoration efforts may also increase instream, bank, and overhead cover. Streambank stabilization will improve substrate composition by reducing the amount of fine sediment entering the stream. Vegetative work is the final crucial step in providing bank stability and overhead cover.


Go to Watershed Consulting