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North Creek Restoration

Before and After: A public walking trail follows the North Creek restoration area in the City of Mill Creek.
Construction of the remaining log components was completed in 2010.
Logs were installed along North Creek to provide bank stabilization.
Biologist recording vegetation data as part of ongoing performance monitoring.
Logs installed on North Creek provide fish habitat and bank stabilization.

Statistics

Client: City of Mill Creek
Location: Mill Creek, WA
Services: Stream bank stabilization, habitat enhancement, permitting, wetland delineation, and performance monitoring

Description

A restoration plan for 2,500 feet of North Creek adjoining the Mill Creek City Hall was designed by The Watershed Company to improve fish and wildlife habitat and stabilize bank erosion that threatened a paved City trail. We provided conceptual plans for 13 specific project locations. On the basis of these concept designs, Department of Fish and Wildlife permitting for the entire project was obtained, as well as grant funding for implementation at 7 of the 13 sites. Staff prepared final engineering design and specifications, Biological Evaluation, and permitting applications. The 7 sites initially funded were built in 2005, with 5-year performance monitoring completed in 2010.

Beginning in 2008, The Watershed Company updated construction plans for the remaining 6 sites to reflect ongoing natural changes in the stream channel. Permit applications were updated so the project’s permits could be renewed. Log structures were placed in summer 2010, with native revegetation in the fall. A 5-year performance monitoring program for the sites also began following construction.

The overall project included a number of different bioengineered bank stabilization applications incorporating closely placed logs with attached root wads to provide bank definition, known as root wad revetments. Our designs of interlocking upright and horizontal logs add stability and complexity. These structures have formed pools with abundant cover for fish use at the outside of channel bends. Non-native vegetation removal and native vegetation planting are providing shade, bank stability, and wildlife habitat.