CTWS Side Channel Project – Latest Update
Construction on the CTWS Side Channel Reconnection Project completed in August 2024. This reconnected side channel increases and improves habitat for threatened and endangered culterally significant native fish species in the Clackamas basin. The project, which which took place on lands owned and stewarded by the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, involved reconnecting a historic side channel off the Clackamas River, installing large wood, and restoring a degraded riparian area.
Lack of quality side channel habitat has been identified by the Clackamas Partnership as a primary limiting factor to salmon recovery. Juvenile fish need access to these off channel habitats. Fish species such as Chinook and Coho Salmon, steelhead and Pacific lamprey will benefit from these side channel rest areas and get stronger and more equipped to handle their road trip to the ocean.
Outcomes of this project include:
- Reconnection and enhancement of a 2,350’ side-channel.
- Increased fish access to riparian floodplain areas.
- Increased large wood habitat for fish and other wildlife.
- Removal of invasive weeds and replanting with 20,000 native plants on 7 acres of riparian habitat.
Is this project be visible from the road?
Yes. Passersby will see the large wood enhancement project from the road when driving on Highway NF-46 towards Olallie Butte. Large woody structures that look natural, but maybe intentionally placed, can be observed. The image below shows the view from the road.
Is the project on private property?
Yes. The project occured on lands owned by the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs and is closed to the public. Illegal tresspassing has been observed at this site and has caused considerable damage to the habitats in this sensitive area.
What are side channels?
Side channels are complex habitat systems consisting of floodplains, ponds, and woody habitat that provide the necessary rearing environment for young fish as they migrate downstream. Today, few high quality side-channel habitats remain in the Clackamas River, especially below River Mill Dam.
While salmon and many other fish populations are declining to the point of being listed on the federal Endangered Species List (ESA), the Clackamas River and its tributaries support some of the healthiest fish populations in the region. Side channel enhancement projects such as this further our efforts to recover these populations.
How is this project funded?
The project is funded by the Oregon Water Enhancement Board through their Focused Investment Partnership (FIP) Implementation grant, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), and the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs.
The Clackamas River Basin Council is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with the mission of fostering partnerships for clean water and to improve fish and wildlife habitat and the quality of life for those who live, work and recreate in the watershed.
Support our salmon recovery work!
You can read more about this project on the Clackamas Partnership’s website: