Programs
Water Rerouted to Benefit Chinook SalmonNews & Program Updates
North American Salmon Stronghold Partnership contributes to restoration of stream flow to Rudio Creek
This summer, an agreement was made between Oregon Water Trust and landowner Campbell Crossing Inc. to permanently restore summer flows to the lower two miles of Rudio Creek in Oregon's John Day Basin. The permanent restoration of 2.0 cfs of this cool water tributary of the North Fork John Day River will increase the quantity and quality of spawning and rearing habitat for native steelhead and spring Chinook.
Currently, Campbell Crossing draws water to irrigate 321 acres during the summer, which dries up the lower two miles of the creek, eliminating spawning habitat for steelhead and a cold water refuge for juvenile spring Chinook migrating up the North Fork. Water will now be drawn from below the mouth of the creek, allowing the water to first flow through the spawning grounds before being used to irrigate the land. Additionally, Campbell Crossing is working with the Monument Soil and Water Conservation District on important riparian enhancement measures fence building to exclude cattle from the creek and planting vegetation to stabilize banks and increase shade.
The North American Salmon Stronghold Partnership secured significant funds through the National Fish Habitat Action Plan for this incentive-based, non-regulatory project completed by Oregon Water Trust and Oregon Trout.