JACKSON, Wyo. — The Bridger-Teton National Forest – Blackrock Ranger District is seeking public input on a proposed restoration and irrigation stabilization project on the wild and scenic Blackrock Creek near Blackrock Ranger District office east of Moran. The project is to repair failing irrigation diversion infrastructure along the Blackrock Levee, and enhance fish habitat and streamside vegetation.
During 2017 spring runoff, large rock was placed on Blackrock levee for emergency stabilization efforts to protect Blackrock Ranger Station, Hatchet Campground, and Hatchet Resort from imminent threat of flooding. The current rock configuration is inconsistent with the Wild and Scenic River Act requirements and inconsistent with maintaining the outstandingly remarkable values.
The project is designed to restore the headgate and levee vicinity in a way that decreases erosion, and eliminates or decreases need for ongoing channel repair. The existing bank would be strengthened by placing large, woody log debris and willow plantings, which would protect levee function and enhance fish habitat and scenery. The project may incorporate headgate replacement or realignment to decrease the likelihood that native fish and other aquatic organisms becoming entrained in the ditch.
Field evaluation in 2020 field season and further collaboration with the water users, will provide additional information to determine the most effective diversion design concept to protect fish, and to maintain reliable water delivery to irrigators. Construction would occur during low stream flow (August-October) of either 2020 or 2021, with a project duration of approximately 2-3 weeks.
Blackrock Creek is a Wild and Scenic River designated in 2009 under the Craig Thomas Wild and Scenic Snake River Headwaters Act and is managed under a Comprehensive River Management Plan. Public comments will be most helpful if received by April 30, 2020.
Comments may be submitted online or directly to the project lead by email.
