Abstract
Salmonids are considered keystone species and play an integral role in the health of river ecosystems. Many of these species are federally recognized as threatened due to habitat loss and degradation. Large woody debris in streams and rivers creates suitable refugia and spawning habitat for salmonid species. Between 2021-2023 the Bureau of Land Management placed approximately 200 pieces of wood into the South Fork Elk River, as part of their accelerated recruitment program in an effort to reintroduce habitat complexity. A survey was conducted on a stretch of the Elk River to gather information on the size, type, composition, and decay class of single pieces of wood as well as wood jams. This data was subjected to analysis and will be used for future recommendations and studies involving the addition of large woody debris for salmonid habitat. Additionally, maps were created to show the location of woody debris and jams, with the intention of tracking movement and change in structure over the coming years.
Date
Fall 2024
Department
Environmental Science & Management
Advisor/Professor
Daniel Lipe