Climate Considerations. Briefly describe your understanding of how the characteristics and functions of the watershed where the proposed project will occur are anticipated to change due to climate impacts in the future. (5000 character limit) Refer to Technical Resources now available on this webpage, if needed: xxxxx://xxx.xxxxxx.xxx/oweb/resources/Pages/Field‐Tech‐Guidance.aspx Climate models for the North Santiam watershed forecast are bleak and indicate need for comprehensive, urgent management action. Compared to historic records, we expect both higher temperatures and lower rainfall in summer months, and flashier, higher volume winter storm events. Extreme drought and heat are expected to stress both aquatic and terrestrial habitats. According to climate models, adverse impacts to aquatic habitats are anticipated as streams warm and exceed temperatures necessary to sustain native fish, and floods scour away instream structures utilized by native fish. High temperatures in riparian forests kill overstory species, in turn increasing fire risk and reducing riparian function. Terrestrial plant communities also see high plant mortality due to drought and fire. Climate impacts also inhibit natural regeneration of native plant communities and open habitats to invasive weed infestation. Forest monocultures are especially susceptible to climate stress. Plant disease and pests move through single species assemblages, particularly when trees are stressed by extreme drought and heat. Where present, disease and pest infestations can cause high mortality and increase the likelihood of catastrophic fire, exacerbating climate effects. As you are planning the proposed restoration activities, how are you accounting for climate considerations (e.g., climatic effects on species assemblages for replanting; climate effects on hydrological patterns that could influence flooding)? (5000 character limit) Our planting design will address anticipated impacts from climate change in several ways. Along rivers and streams, we will install high density plantings of riparian tree and shrub species that are proven to establish quickly and provide soil conservation, large wood inputs, and shade–factors essential to water quality and aquatic habitat function. For example, native willow cuttings in stream banks will rapidly stabilize the soil, become reproductive, and resist flood and drought impacts. Our plant list includes a high diversity of native species typically used in riparian restoration, but in col...
Climate Considerations. Content: Discuss general considerations for designing stormwater management controls in both cold and hot/arid climates.
