Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project Final Project Report December 21, 2017

Transcription

1 Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project 2017 Report 1 Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project Final Project Report December 21, 2017 Dedicated to the conservation and stewardship of public lands in Southern Colorado Rocky Mountain Field Institute 815 South 25 th Street, Suite 101 Colorado Springs, CO (719)

2 Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project 2017 Report 2 I. Project Background The Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project is an effort of the United States Forest Service (USFS), with collaboration from various partner groups and agencies, to protect the sole remaining, genetically pure population of greenback cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkia stomias). This population of trout, which is the last of its kind surviving in the wild, inhabits a 4- mile stretch of Bear Creek just west of the City of Colorado Springs on property owned by USFS and El Paso County. Under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) greenback cutthroat trout are currently listed as threatened. As a requirement under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the USFS prepared the Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Environmental Assessment (EA) to detail the proposed action and alternatives to the proposed action as well as the environmental impacts associated with each. After taking into consideration the environmental impacts disclosed in the environmental assessment; comments received from the public, tribes, and other agencies; a review of the forest plans; and a review of the best available scientific information, the USFS released the Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Final Decision and Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI), which lays out the final decision and establishes the plan to protect the trout while allowing for appropriate and sustainable recreation within the watershed. Decommissioning of existing trails that pose sedimentation risk to Bear Creek is a critical objective of the FONSI. In late 2016, El Paso County contracted with Tapis Associates to complete a trail decommissioning plan for the entire length of the former Trail #667, approximately 4.2 miles, as it crosses through lands owned and managed by both the USFS and El Paso County (EPC). The Former Trail 667 Sediment Reduction and Decommissioning Plan (Tapis Plan) was completed in November of 2016 and details long-term closure and restoration techniques to protect aquatic habitat of the greenback cutthroat trout. The Rocky Mountain Field Institute (RMFI) has been involved in the Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project since its inception in 2009, helping land managers with consultation, assessment, and active restoration of system and non-system trails in the Bear Creek Watershed. RMFI has also been an active member of the Bear Creek Roundtable, a group comprised of various partners, user groups, and other stakeholders helping guide the planning and implementation processes. Through in-depth discussion, the Bear Creek Roundtable identified the need to approach conservation of trout habitat comprehensively. To be more specific, successful protection of the greenbacks rests largely on creating a coordinated effort that enhances the Bear Creek watershed as a whole. With this holistic approach in mind, RMFI entered into two agreements with the primary land managers of the watershed to ensure continuity in conservation efforts across jurisdictions. In August of 2016, RMFI entered into a new Supplemental Project Agreement with the USFS under the Master Challenge Cost Share Agreement (15-CS ) finalized in August of Under the terms of that agreement, RMFI received funding to support maintenance of the Bear Creek trail system and implementation of the recommended actions detailed in the Bear Creek Environmental Assessment. A separate project agreement between EPC and RMFI (Purchase Order # ) provided funding to commence the Jones Park Trail Erosion Control / Decommissioning Project in These two projects are summarized in the following pages.

3 Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project 2017 Report 3 II. Project Purpose The overarching goal of the Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project as well as the Jones Park Trail Erosion Control / Decommissioning Project is to protect one of the last wild populations of greenback cutthroat trout while enhancing the health and function of the Bear Creek Watershed and fostering sustainable recreation. This goal will be achieved through multiyear implementation of a variety of proven, science-based techniques including active ecological restoration, streambank restoration, decomissioning of system and non-system trails, and improvement of designated system trails to reduce risks associated with erosion and enhance overall trail sustainability. In 2017, RMFI continued work associated with the Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project by closing and restoring the terminal east (viewing point for Josephine Falls) and terminal west (junction with realigned Trail #667) of the former #667 Trail, approximately 1.7-miles, that are located entirely on National Forest lands. Additionally, RMFI improved the Josephine Falls Social Trail closure to further dissuade use and make improvements to the Buckhorn Connector Trail (#776) to increase trail sustainability and reduce negative impacts of erosion. In addition to work on National Forest, the Jones Park Trail Erosion Control / Decommissioning Project was implemented under RMFI s agreement with EPC. The focus of this multi-year project is to close and restore approximately 2.5-miles of former Trail #667 located on EPC property as it traverses through Jones Park. This closure is a stipulation of the NEPA decision to further protect greenback cutthroat trout habitat. The previously mentioned Tapis Plan served as a guide to inform work objectives on both EPC and USFS property. Please refer to watershed map (Figure 30 on Page 29 in Appendix A) for depiction of all 2017 work sites in Bear Creek. III. Work Overview Decommissioning Former Trail #666 / #667 Background RMFI and Mile High Youth Corps (MHYC) commenced decommissioning work of former Trail #666 /#667 in the fall of Due to the backcountry location of the project site, field crews camped in Jones Park and hiked to work sites to maximize efficiency. RMFI and MHYC partnered for a total of nine hitches averaging 4.5 days each. Aside from the first hitch being 4 days (due to a holiday), the remaining 8 hitches were scheduled for 5 days each. However, inclement weather conditions reduced time on site for several of the latter weeks. Please refer to Table 1 for days per hitch specifics. The first 4 hitches were used for work on USFS property with the latter 5 hitches on EPC property. An average of 8 MHYC members were on site each hitch, along with a minimum of 2 RMFI staff who provided project supervision. Table 1. MHYC hitch schedule for work in 2017 in the Bear Creek Watershed. Hitch Days Property 1 4 USFS 2 5 USFS 3 5 USFS 4 5 USFS 5 5 EPC 6 4 EPC 7 5 EPC 8 4 EPC EPC

4 Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project 2017 Report 4 Before on-the-ground work could begin, a full day was required on September 5 th, 2017 to pack in necessary camping materials for both RMFI and MHYC crews. Eight RMFI staff, eight MHYC members, and two EPC employees packed-in gear including food, tents, kitchen supplies, rigging equipment for bear hangs, hand tools, and other necessary items. Josephine Falls Overlook Closure Point Decommissioning the former Trail #666 / #667 began September 6 th, 2017 at the Josephine Falls Overlook (See Figure 29 on Page 28). Since this east terminus was the most popular access point to Jones Park, intensive closure methods were implemented here first including 2 sets of fencing, active ecological restoration, erosion control, and tree felling (See Figure 1 on Page 11). The first fence, totaling 25 feet in length and comprised of 5 strands of smooth wire and t-posts, was installed directly behind USFS signage at the best available choke point. A second layer of buck-and-rail fencing measuring 25 feet in length was installed at the next best choke point roughly 30 feet from the first fence between another large rock outcropping and another steep drop-off. Past this buck-and-rail fence, trees were felled to further block access to trail users including hikers, bikers, and motorized enthusiasts (See Figure 2 on Page 11 and Figure 3 on Page 13). Trees were felled in a straw stack manner to maximize blockage of the trail corridor. Several felled trees were nailed together with 8-10 spikes to reduce the chances of material being moved by users. At this location, a total of 64 trees were felled to facilitate trail closure and provide needed materials for erosion control structures. All felling was performed by S-212 certified RMFI sawyers while accounting for the following USFS-issued specifications; diameter at breast height (DBH) less than 12 ; avoiding aspen trees and habitat trees as marked by USFS biologists; thinning of cluttered stands to foster healthier woodland; low stumping, as well as proper safety procedures and personal protective equipment. Note, tree felling was concentrated near closure points and not carried out extensively within the closure boundaries. This was done intentionally to ensure access to creek crossings along trail #666 / #667 for work crews in RMFI expects to plant propagated willows along select crossings to bolster streambank restoration efficacy. Active ecological restoration was initiated behind the first fence and continued to the first creek crossing. Specifically, trail tread was de-compacted, seeded, raked to ensure good seed to soil contact, lightly tamped, and covered with pine boughs to create micro-climates conducive for vegetation growth. Seed used on the entirety of this project was provided by USFS. This seed is a special blend of flora native to the Bear Creek Watershed as well as genetically modified rye, which grows quickly, but does not reproduce. Integrating the fast-growing rye enables rapid, short-term soil stabilization, thereby offering native sprouts favorable soil conditions. As part of the active restoration approach, 51 log check dams (LCDS) were installed between the Josephine Falls Overlook and the first creek crossing to reduce the water s erosive force, stabilize loose soil, and ensure planted seed would not wash away (See Figure 4 on Page 12). In addition to LCDs, other erosion control structures were implemented along the section of trail. Specifically, 16 timber outslope structures, also referred to as timber curbs, totaling 132 linear feet were installed at active sediment deposition locations. These erosion control structures will prevent sediment from entering Bear Creek by keeping water and particulate materials held in suspension on the trail by creating a solid barrier on the critical edge (See Figure 5 on Page 13). Where possible, the trail tread was re-contoured to match the gradient of the surrounding landscape to facilitate sheet flow; the weakest form of erosion caused by water. A total of 2,463 square feet of trail was restored before the first creek crossing using standard techniques described above as well as installation of erosion control matting (EC matting). The primary type

5 Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project 2017 Report 5 of EC matting used was coconut core with a few hundred square feet of aspen and hay matting supplemented. First Creek Crossing At the first creek crossing, rigorous restoration techniques were executed to stabilize loose slopes, prevent active sediment deposition into Bear Creek, promote regrowth of vegetation, and improve fish habitat. Before the creek crossing proper, 2 items were addressed. First, backslope above Bear Creek composed of loose Pikes Peak granite that was contributing to sedimentation was treated with seed and 430 square feet of EC matting. Second, 15 linear feet of social trail traversing 40 feet above the streambank was restored. On the east side of Bear Creek, 5 LCDs were installed at a high frequency along with 360 square feet of EC matting to address active sedimentation (See Figure 6 on Page 13). RMFI and MYHC actively restored 37 linear feet of the east streambank using standard restoration techniques. The 27 transplants used here consisted of native grasses, sedges, and other native flora harvested from a healthy, adjacent streambank. Holes created from transplants were filled with available soil, seeded, and covered with deadfall to reduce impact. Willow transplants will be integrated next season to advance streambank recovery. Extremely steep tread on the west side of the crossing was allowing water to gain significant velocity, thereby increasing its erosive power and carrying capacity. Coupled with anthropogenic forces, this section of trail was contributing significant sediment into Bear Creek. Several techniques were implemented to address this source of habitat degradation including a 50- square foot retaining wall, 4 Log Erosion Barriers (LEBs), 5 LCDs, and 243 square feet of EC matting (See Figure 7 and Figure 8 on Page 14 and Figure 9 on Page 15). Note LEBs are logs between 6-12 in diameter dug into shallow trenches parallel to the contour to intercept water and trap sediment. Although the west streambank proper was not quite as impacted as the east, 10 linear feet of toe bank was restored with seed and EC matting to further promote streambank recovery. Scree Field Continuing west on #666, an extremely loose scree field with little to no vegetation was addressed by re-contouring 140 feet of trail, seeding, and installing 1,386 feet of EC matting (See Figure 10 on Page 15). The re-contoured tread will foster natural sheet flow and reduce the amount of water concentrated on trail to the west creek crossing. Long-term slope stability will be achieved through revegetation. Immediately up trail from this area, slash left over from tree felling was used to decommission an additional 50 linear feet of trail. Large Gully About 150 feet further west on #666, 58 square feet of rock retaining wall was installed with the last course set 6 over the tread to function as an outslope (Figure 11 on Page 15). Shortly after this structure, the trail becomes steep and incised, gradually becoming a huge gully measuring 15 feet wide and 10 feet tall at its pinnacle. The vast amount of space within the gullied trail and plentiful rock nearby offered an opportunity to construct large rock check dams (RCDs; Figure 12, Figure 13, and Figure 14 on Page 16). The scale of these RCDs will enable extensive sediment retention and reduce water s kinetic and potential energy. Capacity of 4 lower RCD catchment basins were expanded using rock retaining walls totaling 148 square feet. A total of 13 RCDs were installed in this section.

6 Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project 2017 Report 6 Decommissioning continued with 4 LCDs and 2 RDCs above these large checks. Due to a relatively gradual slope and the large size of checks below, the frequency and size of these checks were reduced considerably. Trail in Close Proximity to Bear Creek Shortly after the trail exits the large gully and the slope becomes more gradual, it meanders back and forth near Bear Creek. Here several active sediment deposition zones were treated with log and rock outslope structures. The first area of concern was a section of trail a mere 30 feet from Bear Creek that was actively contributing sediment. A 10-foot timber outslope was joined with a 42-square foot rock retaining wall with the top course 6 above trail tread to function as a curb, thereby eliminating the ability for sediment to enter the creek. To provide additional reinforcement for the retaining wall, a 42-square foot rock-rubble wall was constructed at its base (Figure 15 on Page 17). The trail traverses away from Bear Creek along the next hundred yards. Here, 522 square feet of trail was restored. Slash materials were placed perpendicular or at 45 degree angles to trail direction to ensure less concentration of on-trail water flow. Deadfall was placed fairly densely to make travel difficult for determined users (Figure 16 on Page 17). The low slope, lack of trail incision, and distance from Bear Creek in this section did not merit many erosion control structures. Therefore, only a few intermittent check dams were placed. Trail #666 veers back toward Bear Creek creating several more sedimentation zones. The first sedimentation zone where the trail is a mere 10 feet away from trout habitat received 32 linear feet of timber and rock outslope (Figure 17 on Page 18). The trail then becomes incised as it briefly moves away from the stream. The prescription included 2 LCDs and 4 RCDs along with standard restoration. Two more active sediment loading locations up trail were mitigated using a combination of rock and timber outslope structures totaling 78 linear feet. Other segments of trail in close proximity of riparian habitat that could pose future sedimentation risk were also treated by stabilizing the outslope as a preventative measure. Along the next 400 yards before the old decommissioned Z trail (Trail #667), installation of three separate timber outslope structures at potential sedimentation zones were integrated. This 400-yard section is characterized by a few sudden inclines with breaks in grade in between as well as thick deadfall in the area. Frequency and location of LCDs was adapted to trail terrain for the best possible erosion control. Thirty LCDs and 2 LEBs were installed on this stretch along with 1,940 square feet of restoration. Intersection of #667 with Upper Captain Jack s (Z Trail) At the decommissioned Z trail intersection, 160 square feet of trail was treated with EC matting and a 15 foot timber outslope structure was installed (Figure 18 on Page 18). Like the first creek crossing, transplanting willows in 2018 will be key to regenerating streambank integrity. From this point on, Trail #666 becomes #667. The next 700 linear feet was decompacted, seeded, and covered with natural materials resulting in 2,450 square feet of trail restored. Throughout this same section, 1 log curb, 31 RCDs, and 15 LCDs were installed. Frequency of check dams was adapted to trail characteristics such as grade, depth and width of incision, and proximity to Bear Creek. A total of 48 sandbags, previously used to sequester sediment gathered from sediment detention structures (SDS) maintained by RMFI during the past several years, were emptied behind 6 large LCDs in a heavily-incised section of trail. These sandbags were becoming severely weathered and were in jeopardy of spilling sediment back into the Watershed. The measure of backfilling checks in gullied areas of tread will expedite the process of reestablishing grade. Although the Tapis Plan called for building permanent structures around sandbags to

7 Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project 2017 Report 7 retain sediment, the approach of backfilling suitable check dams will still yield the desired result of keeping sediment out of Bear Creek while saving time and resources. Spring Seep Tributaries Two springs cross Trail #667 through the latter hundred feet of trail under discussion. In previous years, RMFI improved rock armored drains to enhance water quality and reduce the amount of water seeping onto Trail #667. Two of the drains were maintained by clearing out built-up sediment and organic debris. The highest drain was reinforced with additional rock, since future routine maintenance will not be feasible. As a backup measure at this location, a new rock reinforced drain was constructed. All newly constructed drains were built with an adequate buffer between the trail and Bear Creek. For example, the new drain was built 100+ feet away from the creek with a large talus field below to trap any outgoing sediment. USFS / EPC Property Line The last 400 hundred feet of trail before entering El Paso County property received the following decommissioning treatments. First, in a heavily-gullied out section of trail, 8 LCDs and 5 RCDs were built (Figure 19 on Page 19). Where the incision decreases, 7 shallow RCDs were built. As the trail incision became pronounced and increased in grade, 7 RCDs were constructed. Furthermore, 642 square feet of trail was restored. RMFI also maintained and reinforced two cross-trail drains to encourage natural water flow of spring seeps (Figure 20 on Page 19). EPC Work Summary Approximately 0.33 miles of former Trail #667 was decommissioned on EPC property. Construction of check dams, cross-trail drains, timber curbs, restoration, and installation of EC matting on loose backslope comprised the majority of work. Less emphasis was placed on blocking trail corridor to ensure adequate access for work crews in Several sections of fencing were erected at key junctions accompanied with other closure techniques such as tree felling, scattering slash, check dam installation, and restoration. Junctions addressed include #667 / old #622a; old #662a / new #622a, and #667 / new #622a (Figure 21 on Page 20). These closure measures will help minimize confusion while navigating the Bear Creek trail system and further deter persistent users. Future Work In 2018, decommissioning of Trail #667 will continue where crews left off on EPC property. The Tapis Plan will continue to serve as a guide as RMFI implements an adaptive approach to restoring this historic trail back to the surrounding landscape. Crews will work linearly up to and past Jones Park to the trail s western terminus on USFS land. Once the trail stabilization is complete, additional tree felling along the trail corridor will take place. This action will advance the health of Bear Creek two-fold; first by firming up the closure to reduce persistent human traffic; second by clearing cluttered tree stands to promote healthier forest. Where possible, aspen growth will be fostered by thinning dense coniferous stands surrounding aspen groves. Also, RMFI will monitor work performed in 2017 for effectiveness and assess whether improvements are merited. Site Visit While on an early site visit with USFS officials and a member from Trout Unlimited (TU) on December 13, 2017, RMFI observed some use of the decommissioned trail via mountain bike tire tracks, damage to rock checks and drains, as well as movement of scattered deadfall and slash. RMFI is confident the planned felling in 2018 will deter future use. Some basic repairs to disturbed rock checks and drains may be required. Another observation of human interference was the removal of one eyebolt and damage to a second bolt at the smooth wire fence at the Josephine Falls Overlook (See Figure 22 on Page 20). Drilling in a new eye bolt and re-fasting

8 Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project 2017 Report 8 wire will be required. Nearby, evidence of moderate hiking activity was seen on a scree field above a blocked section of trail (See Figure 23 on Page 20). Due to time constraints, only 0.33 miles of trail on EPC property was inspected. However, similar mountain bike traffic observed on USFS property was seen on EPC land. Accomplishments U.S. Forest Service RMFI planned for 4 weeks of contract labor with the Mile High Youth Corps (MHYC) to include project supervision by at least 2 RMFI field instructors. The youth corps crews and RMFI staff camped on site. MHYC crews worked 10 hour days the first hitch and 8 hour days for the latter 3 hitches. RMFI staff worked 10 hour days throughout the project duration. See Figure 29 on Page 28 in Appendix A for project map. The following is a breakdown of the time spent on the project: 21 total workdays 19 youth corps workdays (1,216 hours) 3 volunteer workdays with 21 total volunteers (216 hours valued at $5,088) 21 staff workdays (616 hours combined for all days) 2,048 total work hours (youth corps, volunteers, and staff combined) The following is a breakdown of the work accomplished on the project: 0.75 miles of trail decommissioned / restored 188 check dams constructed (log and rock) 6 log erosion barriers built 1 log sill constructed 340 square feet of rock retaining wall constructed 3 linear feet of barrier/ mono-wall built 30 other structures built (timber and rock outslope structures or other erosion control structures) pounds of native seed distributed 29 native transplants 64 trees felled 15 linear feet of non-system trail restored 9,567.5 square feet stabilized / restored 82 linear feet of streambank restored 50 linear feet of fencing installed 2 grade dips / drains built 6 drains maintained 0.4 cubic yards of soil moved 16.5 tons of rock moved El Paso County RMFI scheduled 5 weeks of contract labor with MHYC, including project supervision by at least two RMFI field instructors. The youth corps crews and RMFI staff camped on site. MHYC crews worked 8 hour days and RMFI staff worked 10 hour days throughout the project duration. Note 3.5 workdays were cancelled due to inclement weather. See Figure 29 on page 31 in Appendix A for project map.

9 Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project 2017 Report 9 The following is a breakdown of the time spent on the Jones Park Decommissioning Project: 22 total workdays 21 youth corps workdays (1,450 hours) 6 volunteer workdays with 1 total RMFI intern volunteer (59.75 hours valued at $1,407) 22 staff workdays (451 hours combined for all days) 1, total work hours (youth corps, volunteers, and staff combined) The following is a breakdown of the work accomplished on the project: 0.5 miles of trail decommissioned / restored 80 check dams constructed (log and rock) 1 erosion control structure maintained 7 other structures built (timber and rock outslope structures or other erosion control structures) pounds of native seed distributed 2 native transplants 44 trees felled 4,593 square feet stabilized / restored 65 linear feet of fencing installed 2 grade dip / drain built 3 drains maintained 0.4 cubic yards of soil moved 12.3 tons of rock moved USFS & EPC Totals The following is a breakdown of the time spent on the project: 43 total workdays 40 youth corps workdays (2,666 hours) 9 volunteer workdays with 23 total volunteers ( hours valued at $6,495) 43 staff workdays (1,067 hours combined for all days) 4, total work hours (youth corps, volunteers, and staff combined) The following is a breakdown of the work accomplished on the project: miles of trail decommissioned / restored 268 check dams installed (log and rock) 6 log erosion barriers built 1 log sill built 340 square feet of rock retaining wall constructed 3 linear feet of barrier/ mono-wall built 1 erosion control structure maintained 37 other structures built (timber and rock outslope structures or other erosion control structures) 59 pounds of native seed distributed 29 native transplants 108 trees felled 15 linear feet of non-system trail restored

10 Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project 2017 Report 10 14,160.5 square feet stabilized / restored 82 linear feet of streambank restored 115 linear feet of fencing installed 4 grade dips / drains built 9 drains maintained 0.8 cubic yards of soil moved 28.8 tons of rock moved Education Education is one of the major tenets of RMFI. Therefore, it was important that this project include a focus on education in addition to the work objectives. RMFI sub-contracted with the MHYC, a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide young adults with professional development through meaningful service opportunities and educational experiences. Throughout the 9 hitches of work, RMFI Field Instructors provided opportunities for natural resource management skills development, outdoor leadership, and environmental education. RMFI staff offered place-based lectures that included content about the biological significance of the trout and the NEPA process as well as historical events that occurred in the Bear Creek Watershed. Additionally, RMFI Field Instructors taught MHYC members backcountry camping skills such as rigging high lines, useful knots, and Leave no Trace principles. Volunteer Engagement In addition to education, volunteer engagement is core to RMFI s mission. Consequently, RMFI supervised 3 volunteer events during the first 4 hitches. The first event was attended by a former RMFI staff member. Colorado College s rugby team contributed a day of volunteerism by carrying in 12 rolls of curled erosion control matting into the project location. The third and final event was comprised of 8 volunteers for an overnight, backcountry experience. This event took place over National Public Lands Day (NPLD) weekend. On-the-ground decommissioning objectives, such as furthering restoration and installing check dams, were the primary focus during NPLD. Twenty-one volunteers total participated in these events.

11 Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project 2017 Report 11 Figure 1: Before and after photos of Josephine Falls Overlook closure. Figure 2: Heavy felling to support Josephine Falls Overlook closure. This photo is looking back towards the two layers of fencing.

12 Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project 2017 Report 12 Figure 3: Heavy felling to support Josephine Falls Overlook Closure. This photo was taken 50 feet from the closure point. Figure 4: Before and after photos of active restoration: re-establishing vegetation and installation of LCDs for erosion control.

13 Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project 2017 Report 13 Figure 5: Timber outslope installed on critical edge to stop sediment deposition with restored tread. Figure 6: EC matting placed on loose backslope and segment of trail leading down to Bear Creek. LCDs are under this matting.

14 Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project 2017 Report 14 Figure 7:Before and after pictures of west creek crossing. Figure 8: Before and after of west creek crossing depicting rock retaining wall, LEBs, and EC Matting mitigating sedimentation of Bear Creek while reducing water s erosive force.

15 Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project 2017 Report 15 Figure 9: Progress photo of west creek crossing depicting LEBs before seeding and applying EC matting. Figure 10: Re-contoured scree field treated with EC matting. Figure 11: Rock retaining wall with top course serving as curb / outslope.

16 Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project 2017 Report 16 Figure 13: Before and after of RCD in beginning of gully. Figure 12: Before and after pictures of large RCD in massive gully functions to reduce erosion while retaining sediment. Figure 14: Check dams leading to massive gully. Note ramps behind checks to reduce water s potential energy.

17 Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project 2017 Report 17 Figure 15: Rock retaining wall with top course functioning as outslope and timber curb directly behind; preventing further active sedimentation of trout habitat. Note rubble wall below integrated for stability. Figure 16: Before and after of active restoration.

18 Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project 2017 Report 18 Figure 17: Active sedimentation location treated with 32 timber outslope. trail tread was decompacted, seeded, and covered with deadfall to naturalize and deter users. Figure 18: Intersection of trail #666 / #667 and decommissioned Upper Captain Jack s (Z Trail) restored with EC matting and timber outslopes to prevent sedimentation.

19 Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project 2017 Report 19 Figure19: Log and rock check dams in heavily incised section of trail. Note increase in frequency as trail grade rises. Figure 20: Before and after pictures showing maintenance of rock drain channeling spring seep.

20 Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project 2017 Report 20 Figure 22: Damaged smooth wire fence at Josephine Falls Overlook. Note pulled eyebolt and bent eyebolt beneath. Figure 21: Before and after of #667 closure at intersection with new #622A on EPC land. Figure 23: Hikers bypassing felled trees near Josephine Falls closure.

21 Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project 2017 Report 21 Status of the Josephine Falls Social Trail Decommissioning For two weeks in the summer or 2016, RMFI oversaw the decomissioning of the Josephine Falls Social Trail to standards identified by the USFS and agreed upon by CMCTU (See Figure 24 on page 22). RMFI and USFS are very pleased with the results of the project. However, some moderate use was observed in 2017 necessitating additional time on the project. Work crews installed four, 8-foot segments of split rail fencing at the junction of Trail #666 and the Josephine Falls Social Trail (Figure 25 on Page 23). RMFI staff also built several downedtree obstructions across the closed trail by stacking logs and branches (Figure 26 on Page 23). These supplimentary measures, coupled with off-trail forest closures communicated through USFS signage, will further help to protect the area from erosion catalyzed by humans. RMFI will continue to work with USFS and City of Colorado Springs officials to develop interpretive signage informing the public of trail closures and the Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project. RMFI expects to re-visit the site again in 2018 to monitor effectiveness of closure and restoration efforts. Accomplishments The following is a breakdown of the time spent on the project in 2017: 1 total work day 1 volunteer work day with 2 volunteers total (16 hours of work valued at $376) 1 staff work day (24 hours total) 40 hours total including staff and volunteers The following is a breakdown of the work accomplished: 32 linear feet of fencing Several trail obstructions

22 Figure 24: Josephine Falls social trail map. Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project 2017 Report 22

23 Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project 2017 Report 23 Figure 26: Additional obstructions placed on social trail to bolster 2016 decommission. Figure 25: Fencing installed at the Josephine Falls/Trail #666 junction.

24 Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project 2017 Report 24 Mount Buckhorn Connector Trail Improvement Another component of the Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project in 2017 was the improvement of the recently constructed Mount Buckhorn Connector Trail (#776). The 0.89 mile-long route built in 2016 by RMFI and MHYC advances sustainable recreation within Bear Creek, a primary goal of the overall project. This trail was identified through the NEPA process as a key addition to the trail circuit, as it serves as the only connection of Trail #667 to Trail #666 since the existing connection is now closed. During the 2016 field season, 3 weeks of onthe-ground work completed the vast majority of objectives needed to create a multiuse, sustainable trail. However, the junction of Trail #776 and Trail #666 is located on a steep scree field, which makes a durable and user-friendly intersection difficult to achieve. Although both USFS and RMFI personnel agreed that this was not an ideal location for the junction, very few alternatives existed. Therefore, improvements to the intersection were planned. Even with additional improvements at this intersection in 2016, the USFS and RMFI agreed that the intersection would require a timber or rock retaining wall. Accordingly, it was listed as a priority project for early RMFI Field Instructors spent 4 days on the Mount Buckhorn Connector trail in late May. As planned at the intersection of #776 / #666, a timber retaining wall was constructed. Downed trees were bucked, limbed, and stripped of bark as material for this structure. Note stripping bark will mitigate wood rot by allowing less moisture retention, thereby generating longer lasting materials. The timber retaining wall measures 35 square feet, and effectively establishes a sturdy, well-defined, and user-friendly point of egress (Figure 27 and Figure 28 on Page 26). After revisiting the site in early 2017, additional enhancements to Trail #776 were performed. Specifically, 3 other retaining walls (one log and two rock) were integrated along with several hundred linear feet of trail improvement via shaping the trail backslope and tread work. The first retaining wall was put in just past the #776 / #666 confluence. At this point the trail exits the scree field into dense woodland. This structure totals 30 square feet and serves to secure highly erodible tread while establishing a long-lasting critical edge. Continuing on Mount Buckhorn Connector towards #667, a 50 square foot rock retaining wall was built to establish wider tread, increase durability, and secure a failing critical edge. Several hundred feet past this structure, a hairpin turn overlooking a rock outcropping was improved by building a 22 square foot retaining wall. To be more specific, the turn radius was augmented and moderately banked to better accommodate mountain bikers. In-sloping was also performed at this turn for better drainage. Between the improved turn and the 50 square foot rock retaining wall described above, 345 linear feet of trail was refined. This was achieved by cutting backslope to widen tread to the specified 36 and gain a more stable angle of repose. The latter will help reduce sloughing and lessen potential erosion of the back slope. Lastly, another 20 linear feet of tread work and regrading cut-slope was completed in a few isolated locations along #776.

25 Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project 2017 Report 25 Accomplishments Maintenance of the Mount Buckhorn Connector Trail focused on priorities jointly identified by RMFI and USFS. RMFI field staff and Environmental Leadership Interns (ELIs) hiked from the #667 trailhead on High Drive to various worksites on #776 each day. The following is a breakdown of the time spent on the project: 4 total work days 2 volunteer work days with 2 intern volunteers total (26.5 hours of work valued at $622) 4 staff work days (190 hours total) hours total including staff and volunteers The following is a breakdown of the work accomplished: 137 square feet of retaining wall (72 sq. ft. rock and 65 sq. ft. timber) 365 linear feet of trail improved Education RMFI delivered additional value to the project through a primarily field-based education program known as the Environmental Leadership Internship (ELI). The ELI provides recent graduate or undergraduate students a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience co-leading fieldbased trail and restoration projects throughout the Pikes Peak Region. Interns hone environmental stewardship and leadership skills as they assist senior field staff with project implementation. While contributing labor to #776 improvements, ELIs learned basic trail anatomy; trail construction standards and maintenance techniques, as well as the significance of work in the Watershed as it pertains to the greenback cutthroat trout and supporting sustainable recreation. RMFI will continue to find innovative ways to engage and educate volunteers through programs like the ELI while meeting core project deliverables.

26 Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project 2017 Report 26 Figure 27: Before and alter of Trail #666 / #776 junction. Figure 28: Trail #666 / #776 junction post 2017 improvement and USFS signage.

27 Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project 2017 Report 27 IV. Project Conclusion In conclusion, 2017 was a yet another great year for advancing the Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project and initiating the Jones Park Trail Erosion Control / Decommissioning Project. RMFI, in partnership with the USFS, EPC, and MHYC, made excellent progress protecting Colorado s threatened state fish by decommissioning over 1.25 miles of former Trail #666 /#667; bolstering the Josephine Falls Social Trail closure, as well as making improvements the Mount Buckhorn Connector. Although significant progress was made, RMFI continues to stress that these projects are multi-year, ongoing endeavors. Allowing time for effectiveness monitoring in addition to the extensive amount of work ahead will be critical to long termsuccess. Total Personnel Statistics 48 total work days 40 youth corps work days (2,666 hours) 12 volunteer work days with 27 total volunteers ( hours valued at $7,493) 48 staff work days (1,281 hours combined for all days) 4, total work hours (youth corps, volunteers, and staff combined) Total Work Statistics miles of trail decommissioned / restored 365 linear feet of trail improved 268 check dams installed (log and rock) 6 log erosion barriers built 1 log sill built 477 square feet of rock retaining wall constructed 3 linear feet of barrier/ mono-wall built 1 erosion control structure maintained 37 other structures built (timber and rock outslopes or other erosion control structures) 59 pounds of native seed distributed 29 native transplants 108 trees felled 15 linear feet of non-system trail restored 14,160.5 square feet stabilized / restored 82 linear feet of streambank restored 147 linear feet of fencing installed 4 grade dips / drains built 9 drains maintained 0.8 cubic yards of soil moved 28.8 tons of rock moved Several trail obstructions Contact Information Joe Lavorini, RMFI Program Director joe@rmfi.org (719) ext. 3#

28 Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project 2017 Report 28 V. Appendix A Figure 29: Trail #666 / #667 decommission breakdown.

29 Figure 30: 2017 Project sites. map courtesy of USFS. Bear Creek Watershed Restoration Project 2017 Report 29