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Issaquah Creek Restoration at Private Property

Construction of final project, including large woody debris for habitat value.
Fisheries biologists electrofishing to remove fish from a segment of Issaquah Creek prior to construction.
Final project at high flow.
Erosion threatened the property prior to bank stabilization.
Initial bank stabilization prior to adding large woody debris.

Statistics

Client: Private landowners
Location: Issaquah, WA
Dates: 2009
Services: Design, permitting, and construction oversight

Description

Severe erosion created by flooding in January 2009 threatened a home and acreage on Issaquah Creek. The Watershed Company designed, permitted and oversaw construction on a project to protect the property and enhance fish and wildlife habitat. Placement of large woody debris stabilized three stream bank sections along approximately 850 feet of stream and created cover and resting areas for salmonids.

Watershed Company biologists and designers worked intently with the homeowners to see that their wishes for their property were met within the context of regulatory requirements and fisheries restoration. A sidewalk and hot tub adjacent to the stream were removed and replaced with log revetments and anchored woody debris. Digger logs were installed to direct flow away from fragile areas. A system of coir lifts was installed above and behind the stacked bank logs. Lifts are made of 100 percent biodegradable material, filled with topsoil, and anchored with woody plants to stabilize the stream bank. New native plants further enhance stability and provide shade and insects for fish.