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Rock Creek Reconnection |
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| The goal of the Rock Creek Reconnection Project is to restore the connection between Rock Creek and the Big Hole River. This significant sub-watershed currently drains into the Spokane Irrigation Ditch, not the Big Hole River. The current landowner has agreed to participate in a project that reconnects Rock Creek to the Big Hole River as part of their CCAA site-specific plan. The proposed project would lead to the construction of 450 feet of new stream channel that will connect approximately 4,400 feet of existing swale to rock Creek and the Big Hole River. The proposed project will incorporate pool habitat enhancement techniques throughout approximately two miles of stream that will significantly increase the carrying capacity of the stream. The entire restoration reach will be revegetated with mature willows and protected by temporary fencing for two year. Recent fish population monitoring efforts in Rock Creek resulted in one brook trout and 24 mountain whitefish being captured in the lower 1.5 miles of the stream. Other fish species captured include white sucker and longnose dace. The reconnection of Rock Creek to the Big Hole River will lead to improved streamflows in the Big Hole River by allowing water not needed for irrigation to flow into the Big Hole River. The reconnection of Rock Creek to the Big Hole River will also provide an additional option for streamflow enhancement during low flow periods similar to the ones experienced the last two spring (spawning) seasons. | |