FWP proposes improvements on Therriault Creek

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is seeking public comment on a proposal to restore riparian vegetation and improve fisheries habitat on Therriault Creek near Eureka.

The proposed work on private land along Therriault Creek is located approximately 1.75 miles upstream from the confluence with the Tobacco River. The project would continue previous work on Therriault Creek and would increase woody vegetation cover along the stream, increase fisheries habitat diversity, and reduce the risk of bank erosion. The proposed work would enhance vegetation along about 1,000 feet of the 9,100 feet of stream that was previously restored.

FWP proposes three bioengineering treatments that would support the development of riparian woody vegetation. These techniques include stripping dense non-native pasture grasses and replanting with willows, slightly lowering inside stream banks and replanting with willows, and the installation of woody debris and willow cuttings along the stream bank.

FWP would fund the completion of this project with funding received from Bonneville Power Administration (BPA). BPA previously completed an environmental impact statement that analyzed the effects of similar projects that can be found online at https://www.bpa.gov/efw/Analysis/NEPADocuments/Pages/Watershed-Management.aspx.

Comments will be accepted until 11:59 p.m., Sept. 10, 2019.

Public comments can be submitted to: Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, Attention: Jim Dunnigan, 385 Fish Hatchery Road, Libby, MT 59923, or e-mail to jdunnigan@mt.gov.