Methow Restoration Council
 

Middle Methow (M2) Reach 1 Habitat Improvement Project            Methow Basin Map

Middle Methow projectThe Methow Salmon Recovery Foundation (MSRF), in partnership with the Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation), Bonneville Power Administration, Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), and the Upper Columbia Salmon Recovery Board (UCSRB) constructed two habitat projects along the Methow River between 2012 and 2013.  These two projects, Whitefish Island and WDFW Floodplain, are part of a larger, long-term effort to benefit endangered and threatened species of fish in the Methow River between Winthrop and Twisp.

Why we’re doing the projects:                 Show more/Hide

Reclamation completed an extensive three-year study of the Methow River from Carlton to the Lost River above Mazama and a more detailed study of the Middle Methow (M2) between Winthrop and Twisp. 

Project outcomes:                                     Show more/Hide

Both of these projects will create better in-stream and riparian habitat for young salmon and steelhead during their critical first year.

Project benefits:                                        Show more/Hide

While the primary goal of these M2 projects is to improve habitat for juvenile fish (resulting in an increase in the numbers of surviving fish that will later return as adults to spawn), these projects will also improve habitat for many other native species and help restore natural river processes.

Project timeline:                                        Show more/Hide

Construction at Whitefish Island, off Witte Road, began in August 2012 and was completed in early November 2012.  Work took place in the side channel, on the island, and in the floodplain on the west side of the river.

Contact for more information:                   Show more/Hide

Please contact Michael Notaro with any questions regarding either project.