WWRC 86-05t
Reversing Desertification of Riparian Zones Along Cold Desert Streams
Abstract
Instream flow structures (trash collectors), willow and
beaver are being used to reclaim riparian habitat along
a degraded cold desert stream in Wyoming. It is hypothesized
that trash collectors will decrease stream flow
velocity thus causing sediment to be deposited bank
first and as channel bed material. Willow (Salix sp.)
growing and planted along banks will be used to
stabilize new channel bank deposition by roots.
Willows will further reduce stream flow velocity and
cause additional entrapment of sediment during flood
runoff events. As a narrow channel, raised bottom
and willow habitat develops more frequent overbank
flooding should occur and cause conditions favorable
for increasing new riparian zone habitat. Willow will
provide structural materials for beaver dams thus
replacing the need for installing trash collectors.
Sixteen sets of three or four trash collectors have been
installed during 1984-85 along 7 km of stream on
straight reaches between meanders. Second year
growth sprigs, pole plants, and containerized willow
stock have been planted on degraded stream channel
reaches to test survivability and root development. A
surface and groundwater monitoring system is nearly
complete to measure change in the riparian zone water
balance. Preliminary results show (1) trash collectors
slow stream velocity and increase channel bed
material, (2) ninety percent of planted willows
survived during their first summer growing season,
and (3) beaver are using trash collectors as support for
dams.
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