ANALYSIS OF THE LACAMAS CREEK RECLAMATION PROJECT

Lacamas Creek is located just outside of Roy Washington. Due to the agricultural impact and the excessive erosion along the reach, the stream was no longer suited for salmonid habitat. A restoration project was set to motion by a joint effort of the Nisqually Tribe, and the Pierce County Stream Team. The goal was to reclaim the reach in the Lacamas area and restore it to readiness for the salmon population.

Monitoring this project, it was noted that although measures were taken to reclaim the area, forethought on an expanded level, was not implemented and various problems resulted due to the narrow scope of the project. Due to the agricultural impact that continues to have presence in the reach area, the reclamation will not have the ability to maintain a long-term impact on the system.

Measurements and analysis of the project document the changes in the reach after the implementation of the Nisqually stream project, data collected indicates the need for espansion and long-term consideration. Cross sections and longitudinal measurements in conjunction with a sedimentary analysis were taken. Additionally, photographic data was also collected. The results of this combined data supports the conclusion.