Restoration project reshapes Oregon watershed to aid fish recovery
The approach aims to restore wetlands and habitat in the McKenzie River watershed
A large-scale restoration project in Oregon’s McKenzie River watershed is using a process known as Stage 0 to reconnect streams with their floodplains and create a wetland habitat for fish and other species. According to reporting by High Country News, the approach involves reshaping valley floors, removing levees and distributing large wood across floodplains to encourage streams to spread into multiple channels.
The effort includes work at Quartz Creek and other sites in the watershed. Supporters say the projects could improve water quality and strengthen ecosystem resilience, while critics have raised questions about long-term outcomes and potential risks. Researchers and restoration practitioners say continued monitoring will be needed to evaluate the approach over time.
- 1.Jaclyn Moyer. High Country News, .
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