Heernett Foundation Projects

Valley Pond

Planting Native Trees and Shrubs for Riparian Zone Around Valley Pond

Issue:

The Valley Pond is a small body of water in the middle of a large open field. The tributary connected to the pond, is Cozy Valley Creek. Juvenile Coho salmon use this tributary system to migrate back to the Crawford Creek and West Crawford Creek systems. Indicating this pond and stream system is potential salmonid habitat if conditions were improved. Because this pond is shallow and in a wide-open area, the water temperatures get too hot in the summer months for the salmon to use as a rearing habitat, plus there is little cover to hide from predation. The high temperatures create low oxygen levels and little food sources for juvenile salmon and other potential aquatic wildlife, such as amphibians.

Plan:

Continue planting a variety of native trees and shrubs around the Valley Pond and the Cozy Creek tributary over the next 15 to 20 years. This will establish a sustainable and functional riparian zone, creating ecological diversity, wildlife habitat, potential tree recruitment and a shade source for the pond. Meanwhile, lowering water temperatures that will enhance the water quality throughout the entire stream system.

Valley Pond exit into Cozy Valley Creek - February 2001

Valley Pond riparian project - February 2001

Valley Pond riparian project - February 2001