MARIENVILLE — The USDA Forest Service is accepting public comments on a proposal to improve stream habitat along 65 miles of streams in Highland, Ridgway, and Spring Creek Townships in Elk County.

The project includes National Forest System Lands in Management Areas 2.2 (Late Structural Linkages), 3.0 (Even-aged Management), 7.2 (Remote Recreation), and 8.1 (Wild and Scenic River Corridor). The project proposal includes felling trees into streams and onto floodplains, also constructing beaver dam analogs in streams.

Bear Creek, Irwin Run, and Upper Clarion River watersheds have been identified as priority watersheds for restoration. These watersheds have been rated as “fair” in condition. Streams in these watersheds, plus Threemile Run, lack habitat diversity due to the removal of trees (large wood) from riparian areas and streams, done prior to the Forest Service’s acquisition of the land.

The addition of large wood to streams is important for aquatic organism survival and propagation, as well as overall watershed health. Some benefits include creating quality pools, providing diverse channels, spreading flows out onto flood plains where flows are slowed and allowing for infiltration, and storing sediment and organic debris. These contributions are anticipated to improve aquatic habitat and enhance recreational opportunities for anglers.

The addition of beaver dam analogs will help connect stream channels to their floodplain by creating greater groundwater passage. This process lowers stream temperature, increases the watershed’s sediment storage capacity, and reduces downstream flooding risks. Large wood additions and beaver dam analogs not only slow flood flows, but also increase resiliency to increased flood frequency.

For more information, a scoping document is available for download on the project webpage. Printed copies are available upon request. If you want to provide input, please submit comments by Sept. 16.