Day Creek Riparian Planting
This project consists of two separate planting efforts for the Skagit Land Trust, in association with the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) and the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS). Riparian planting associated with the FSA Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) occurred in the fall 2005 and winter 2006. This planting consisted of 3,275 potted cedar and spruce, 1,450 willows and 500 riparian shrubs, all planted within 180 feet of the bank adjacent to Kosbab Slough. Large patches of Himalayan blackberry are present on the site, which have been successfully controlled to date.
Map of WRP and CREP riparian and wetland planting areas.
Planting associated with the NRCS Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP) occurred winter 2007, and consisted of 7,000 plants installed in the interior of the property. There are dense concentrations of reed canary grass throughout the site, which need to be controlled to allow the plantings the opportunity to achieve a height to compete with fast growing invasive. Additionally, isolated patches of Himalayan blackberry are found in this area, which also must be kept in check through control efforts.
Former pastureland was planted with western red cedar and other native plant species.
Project Status/Timeline
This project is currently in the maintenance and monitoring stage. The CREP planting is in year three of monitoring, and the WRP planting is currently in year one of monitoring.
Primary Project Contact
Brenda Clifton
Funding Sources
Skagit Conservation District (FSA)/CREP
Natural Resource Conservation Service/WRP
Project Partners
Skagit Land Trust (property manager)
Kim Sundstrom (original land owner)