Overview

Emerging from the ground in the resort community of Black Butte Ranch, Captain Jack Creek begins as a cold-water spring. Given the location of the creek, livestock have been allowed to graze through its waters, degrading the stability of the habitat.

The Upper Deschutes Watershed Council met with Black Butte Ranch to devise a plan to restore 1,900 lineal feet of the creek, while being sensitive to the needs of the homeowners.

Streamside Stewards

Through a series of meetings with the homeowners in the area, the UDWC developed a restoration project that effectively fenced livestock away from the creek, restored riparian habitat, improved streambank stability, improved water quality and preserved mountain and creek view for the local homeowners. A solar powered off-channel watering system was built for the animals. In addition, native vegetation was planted along the stream.

The success of the project highlighted a balance between the needs of the homeowners, livestock and the health of the watershed.