Comanche Creek Restoration Workshop - August 21-23

Guest post by Megan Marsee:

This blog concerns this year's Comanche Creek restoration workshop, sponsored by the Quivira Coalition. KT Labadie and I attended this same workshop last year, and I would recommend it to any WR student interested in the use of in-stream structures to improve aquatic habitat and water quality.

The restoration work takes place on the lower reach of Comanche Creek, located in the Carson National Forest Valle Vidal Unit. The work focuses on reducing erosion to improve habitat for the Rio Grande Cutthroat Trout.

The river restoration methods that will be employed at the workshop were pioneered by Bill Zeedyk. His technique is called Induced Meandering. It uses artificial instream structures, manipulation of streambank vegetation, and the power of running water to expedite channel evolution and floodplain development. This year's workshop will involve installing post vanes and planting willows.

Several organizations have cooperated on this project over the past 7 years, so you have the chance to observe old erosion control structures and their impact on the creek. Though many attest to their efficacy, one of our own graduates, Ryan Weiss, examined the impact of in-stream structures for his Professional Project, and found that they had no significant impact on channel form. This is a chance to look at that question yourself, in one of New Mexico's most beautiful landscapes, with a great group of folks. The workshop takes place August 21-23. Contact Michael Bain mbain@quiviracoalition.org for info.