Public comments wanted for Elk County stream improvement project

ELK COUNTY, Pa. (WTAJ) — The USDA Forest Service has opened a public comment period for a proposal to improve stream habitats along 65 miles of streams in Elk County.

The streams are in Highland, Ridgway and Spring Creek Township and the project includes National Forest System Lands. The proposal would include cutting down trees into streams and onto floodplains, as well as constructing beaver dam analogs.

Bear Creek, Irwin Run, and Upper Clarion River watersheds have been identified as priority watersheds for restoration. These watersheds have been rated as “fair” in condition. Streams in these watersheds, plus Threemile Run, lack habitat diversity due to the removal of trees.

Adding in large wood would provide quality pools and diverse channels, spreading flows out onto flood plains where flows are slowed and allow for infiltration, and storing sediment and organic debris. The Forest Service said this would improve aquatic habitat and enhance recreational opportunities for anglers.

The addition of beaver dam analogs will help connect stream channels to their floodplain by creating greater groundwater passage. This process lowers stream temperature, increases the watersheds’ sediment storage capacity, and reduces downstream flooding risks.

Both beaver dam analogs and large wood would slow flood flows and increase resilience to flood frequency.

Here’s how you provide input on the project:

• Mail: Daniele Gualtieri, Marienville Ranger District Office, 131 Smokey Lane, Marienville, PA 16239
• Fax: (814) 927-2285
• Email : You can find out more on the project and comment through the Elk County Stream Habitat Improvement page.
• Phone: You can call the Marienville Ranger District Office by calling(814)927-5700. Business hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.

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More information about the project can be found on the project page on the USDA Forest Service website .

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