info@wyldlifefortomorrow.org
Lower Snake River Ranch Stabilization
Why?
- At the downstream end of the Snake River levee system, the Snake River is especially dynamic due to heightened erosive forces from the levee’s straightening and channelization and lack of access to its floodplain.
- This has led to a decrease in diversity of fish habitat in the mainstem Snake River as well as increased erosion and land loss in areas without levee protection or riprap.
- The project area is located on a section of the Snake River Ranch’s property where there has been significant bank erosion and land loss – about 1,000 feet of exposed, vertical, actively eroding banks along the Snake River, and an additional 2,000 feet of eroding banks in a smaller side channel.
- There is very little cover or rearing habitat for Snake River Cutthroat trout in this section of the river.
How?
- Banks will be stabilized using bioengineering techniques to minimize land loss and reduce downstream sediment contributions to improve water quality.
- Local habitat conditions for all life stages of Snake River Cutthroat trout and other native fish in the project area will be improved by addressing bank erosion and a lack of in-stream/overhead cover and slower backwater areas.
- A 50-100 foot riparian buffer will also be created to provide long-term bank protection and to re-establish riparian vegetation along the river’s banks. It will be protected by wildlife-friendly fencing and fencing exclusion pods that have gaps for wildlife movement.
- Estimated Completion Date: Fall 2023
Partners
Trout Unlimited
Teton Conservation District
Snake River Ranch
Wyoming Game and Fish Department
“funding for important conservation projects like highway crossings, habitat improvement, and education of our youth all have the potential to meaningfully contribute in a better future for Wyoming...”