South Yakima Conservation District is working to restore vital salmon habitat in a spring-fed cool pool channel just off the Yakima River. This channel, which is perfect for salmon, faces challenges from erosion and water quality issues due to uncontrolled cattle access and invasive weeds. The main river channel has also been slowly eroding since a cottonwood forest was removed in the mid-20th century.
South Yakima CD, in partnership with Mid-Columbia Fisheries and a local land manager, is stepping up to restore this vital habitat by installing livestock exclusion fencing and controlling noxious weeds on the streambank. The project will continue through 2027 and includes more fencing, riparian plantings, and efforts to replant the historic cottonwood forest to stabilize the riverbank and support wildlife.
This $2.4M river restoration project on the Satsop River includes reshaping the riverbank and adding log jams to improve water flow and create a better habitat for wildlife. With 400+ acres of riparian restoration planned, the project is already helping to reduce flooding and improve the river's health.
Delaini Disher’s photo, “Well-Attended Field Demonstration” captures the use of livestock in sustainable farming, highlighting the importance of biomass collection from a grazed cover crop field.
Mckenzi Coleman's "Exclusion Fence" photo highlights the enduring value of exclusion fencing as a tool for protecting natural resources like salmon streams and safeguarding livestock.
