Habitat Project 2004-01 Canyon Creek Elk/Livestock Exclosure
This project, completed on May 5, 2004 used a private company on state contract to
repair damaged water gaps and areas of the perimeter fence in the existing elk/livestock exlosure directly below the
OW Bridge in Canyon Creek. This fence was damaged by flooding from the watershed affected by the Rodeo-Chediski fire in 2002, and again by monsoon storm runoff in 2003.
The exclosure was originally constructed in 2000 to encourage the development of
woody vegetation along the stream. By allowing growth of riparian woody plant species, stream aquatic habitats will be shaded, therefore keeping water temperatures within tolerances for resident
trout and native sucker and dace fish species. In-stream growth of watercress and other emergent vegetation will also be protected, providing instream cover for juvenile as well as adult resident
sportfish species. Increased vigor and density of riparian vegetation will help to stabilize the stream channel and improve resilience to flood flows, which have been greatly magnified by degraded
watershed conditions from the Rodeo-Cheiski fire.
Before photo:
After photos:
Click here to read the letter of acknowldgement from AZ G&F.
