Project Description
This project involves selective clearing along approximately 11 miles of the main stem of Willow Creek to improve stormwater flow, from the confluence of Willow and Spring creeks to the Burlington Northern Railroad (BNRR).
“Selective clearing” as practiced by the Flood Control District involves identifying and removing downed trees or trees at imminent risk of failure along forested bayous and drainage channels. The work in the channel and on channel slopes is performed by hand, using chainsaws, machetes and ropes. Contractors travel the channel mostly on foot. A secondary focus of this effort is to leave as much of the native understory as possible, while providing maintenance access and clearing non-native species. This practice helps maintain or restore the channel’s ability to convey stormwater, and promotes a more native shade canopy that will require minimal maintenance.
This project was recommended by the
Willow Creek Watershed Planning Project.