The grant is to install log-JAM and boulder structures requiring 200 trees and 250 boulders to 1) restore in-streamhabitat complexity, long term stability, and enhance fish habitat quality in a 1-mile…

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has awarded a $201,234 Project Grant under the Tribal Wildlife Grants program (CFDA 15.639) to the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians. The grant funds the installation of log-jam and boulder structures to restore in-stream habitat complexity and enhance fish habitat quality in a 1-mile stretch of the North Branch of the Meduxnekeag River in Maine. The project aims to mitigate legacy impacts of logging and dams, increase ice flow resilience of previously installed habitat structures, and provide improved habitat conditions for cold-water fish species like wild brook trout. The grant supports key project tasks, including acquiring materials, obtaining permits, installing habitat structures, and conducting pre- and post-installation monitoring over a 3-year period. This award continues the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians' long-term efforts to restore aquatic habitats and improve water quality in the Meduxnekeag watershed.

The grant is to install log-JAM and boulder structures requiring 200 trees and 250 boulders to 1) restore in-streamhabitat complexity, long term stability, and enhance fish habitat quality in a 1-mile stretch of the north branch of the meduxnekeag river and 2) increase ICE flow resilience of previously installed habitat structures in 0.5 miles of instream restoration completed just downstream in 2017 with updated construction techniques. This project continues an established and long term effort by hbmi to restore aquatic habitat and improve water quality in the meduxnekeag watershed by mitigating legacy impacts of logging and dams in this historical salmon stream. Hbmi will continue contracting with john field, fluvial geomorphologist and certified USDA, nrcs technical service provider for project design and implementation. Field is the author of our aquatic habitat study for the meduxnekeag watershed. Natural existing log-JAM and boulder structures field observed in the watershed will be replicated to improve habitat conditions for wild brook trout at the restoration site. Main project tasks include (1) gathering acquiring project materials (boulders and trees with root wads), (2)obtaining state federal permits, (3) installing hydro-modification bmps (boulder and log structures that create shade, riffles and pools), and (4) repeat photograph for 3 years. A considerable amount of boulders and wood were removed from the meduxnekeag in the 1800S. This lack of pool and riffle forming features created wide, shallow stream channels with little structural complexity and impaired aquatic habitat. The shallow, slow-moving water warms more quickly contributing to temperatures also unsuitable for the rivers cold water fish and other aquatic organisms. Anticipated environmental outcomes include: (1) improved aquatic habitat (pools, riffles, shade) and (2) increased opportunity for cold-water fish such as salmon to migrate upstream into tribal waters and to reach cold-water refugia in adjacent tributaries. One of hbmis overarching natural resource goals is salmon in our waters. Restoration work will be accompanied by 3 years of pre and post-installation monitoring and ongoing education and outreach activities.