Little Springs Creek Riparian Fencing

Project Narrative

This project was completed without any notable deviations from the original proposal. Construction was completed by the end of May 2005 which was the intent of the proposed end date. A 4-pole jack riparian fence was installed as proposed with 2-pole gates to protect and restore resident and anadromous fish habitat along Little Springs Creek. The final fence length installed was 2,838 feet (0.54 miles), less than the proposed amount due to slight changes in the final fence layout.Protection of habitat on Little Springs Creek has been accomplished through the installation of the riparian fence. An increase in extent and cover of the riparian plant community and the corresponding benefits to water quality, spawning habitat, and rearing habitat is expected over time.Riparian fencing on Little Springs Creek will promote regrowth of deep rooted riparian vegetation and therefore enhance water quality, reduce sedimentation, stabilize water temperatures, provide thermal refuge, and increase the amount of spawning and rearing habitat available to resident and anadromous fish in Little Springs Creek and the Lemhi River. Currently, Little Springs Creek is used by juvenile Chinook salmon and steelhead as rearing habitat, and may be used by adults as spawning habitat. Spawning by resident rainbow trout has been documented in Little Springs Creek.