An Analysis of the Reecer Creek Floodplain Restoration Project

Reecer Creek in Ellenbsurg, Washington was confined by a straight levee for the past 100 years. Frequent flooding when Reecer Creek overtops the levee has caused damage to nearby neighborhoods and businesses. Also, Reecer Creek is habitat for anadromous fish including the endangered steelhead. The Reecer Creek Floodplain Restoration Project (RCFRP), completed in 2011, restored the creek into a more natural form to allow floodplain function and habitat improvement. A meandering channel was constructed and 50,000 trees were planted in the riparian area. The Ellensburg High School AP Environmental Science classes conducted research to monitor the success of the RCFRP. Students designed research projects that compared conditions in October 2011 and April 2012 to see how the floodplain changed and adapted. Some students investigated characteristics of the stream itself including channel shape, cross section, sediment, water quality, and invertebrate populations. Other students investigated the recovery of the riparian areas including soil chemistry, texture, organic compounds, plant populations, and an evaluation of revegetation. Comparison of the conditions immediately after the completion of the project (October 2011) and after the first winter runoff season will provide information about how well the RCFRP is accomplishing its goals. Out data will provide information that will aid in management of the RCFRP