Eagle Valley (EV) Spring Restoration

Project Narrative

The Idaho Department of Fish and Game began completing steps necessary for implementing the project in 2008. This included drafting a biological assessment for ESA consultation, completing cultural resource compliance, permitting, coordinating with engineers on the project design, developing bid packets, conducting project bid meetings, and hiring contractors. In 2010, replacement of the upper culvert, bank reconstruction and grading, and final bank stabilization was completed by the contractor. Stabilization included reseeding all disturbed areas as outlined in the contractor’s EPA Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan. Additionally, Eagle Valley Ranch representatives began to construct portions of the riparian fence. In addition to fence construction, 250’ of spring channel was revegetated with native willow and cottonwood cuttings.Other than a couple of contract no cost extensions, no deviations from the original objectives and tasks occurred on this project. However, some of the tasks were expanded beyond the original scope of work. Beginning in winter 2010, IDFG pursued new opportunities for additional habitat improvements after the ranch acquired additional property that contained the lower most downstream segment of the spring. Thus, habitat objectives were expanded to include the entire length of the spring. Additional funds necessary for the expanded scope of work were acquired through the Bonneville Power Administration, with all work completed by April 15, 2011.Improvement of this spring will provide valuable rearing habitat for juvenile Chinook salmon and other species in the lower Lemhi River by cooling summer water temperatures for optimum juvenile salmon growth and survival. It will also reduce high water velocities that prevent migration,