SPA 124 PERMIT DECISION NOTICE USFS Greek Creek River Access Improvements FWP-FSH-R3-24-043

Jun 4, 2024 11:19 AM

The project area is located at the Greek Creek Campground along the Gallatin River in Gallatin Canyon. Long-term use of the site has resulted in a loss of riparian vegetation and streambank erosion, which was exacerbated during the June 2022 high water event when the Gallatin River reached 6,410 cfs at the Deer Creek gage and 8,620 cfs at the Gallatin Gateway gage. The streambank is approximately 5-6 feet tall when measured from the baseflow water surface elevation. The bank has a relatively low slope, is comprised of cobbles, and generally lacks riparian vegetation along the top of the bank. Sparse wetland and riparian vegetation along the base of the eroding streambank is located within the ordinary high-water mark and will be maintained during construction. Nearby structures include rustic camp sites and a paved campground access road. Project implementation includes construction of a bioengineered streambank with native willows locally sourced. The restored streambank will be planted with containerized riparian vegetation. A rock terrace will be constructed to provide designated hardened river access and route visitors away from native riparian vegetation. Temporary fencing will be installed along the restored streambank and riparian plantings during the establishment phase. Additional project components include post assisted log structures (PALS) to enhance instream habitat and beaver dam analogs (BDAs) to slow out-of-bank streamflows. The campground’s existing vault toilet will also be replaced.