Clark County • Washington

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Neighborhood Projects

Habitat Enhancement Project at Pleasant Valley Park

A habitat enhancement project for the streamside area of Pleasant Valley Park is under way. Washington State University Extension Watershed Stewards are enhancing approximately 3 acres of the 29-acre park owned by Vancouver/Clark Parks and Recreation. In April of 2003 a small planting was completed at the southwest end of the park. In October of 2003 a large planting of native trees and shrubs was completed. The primary goals of the project are to enhance the tributary on the site, incorporate citizen involvement, promote stewardship, improve fish and wildlife habitat along the main stem of Salmon Creek, and enhance park aesthetics. The work included re-planting of a riparian buffer of 35 feet on either side of the tributary of Salmon Creek.

Invasive Blackberry and Reed Canary Grass was removed through an agreement with Clark County Weed Management and Vancouver/Clark Parks and Recreation. Clark County Corrections provided the labor for removal of the invasive plants in preparation for re-planting. Clark Public Utilities donated over 700 plants and protective sleeves. In addition to The Watershed Stewards, Habitat Partners, Starbucks Green Team, Clark College students and local residents were out for the October 25th planting. Volunteers under the direction of the Salmon Creek Watershed Council, are providing long-term management and monitoring of the site. Watershed Steward and Highlands resident Randall Pearl are playing an active role in the project. Students from Pleasant Valley Elementary and Middle Schools will also be invited to participate in the monitoring program.

Salmon Creek is a rapidly urbanizing watershed that is known to support populations of Steelhead listed under the Endangered Species Act. According to the Habitat Limiting Factors Analysis by the Washington Conservation Commission, Salmon Creek lacks off-channel rearing habitat, spawning habitat, riparian vegetation, and fish cover. This project will eventually provide off-channel rearing habitat along a small, year-round, spring-fed tributary that is seldom affected by rainfall events. It will also improve the condition of the riparian area along both sides of the tributary and one side of Salmon Creek.

This project will serve as a model of Clark County’s intention to maintain Parks and green spaces in a manner that meets the needs of fish, wildlife, and people. Vancouver/Clark Parks and Recreation is dedicated to meeting the recreational needs of county residents while maintaining quality habitat for fish and wildlife. This project will model how balance is achieved between these goals. Elements of the model can be utilized for future parks and adopted by private landowners. Residents from within The Pleasant Highlands Neighborhood are encouraged to volunteer for the project.

For more information contact Randall Pearl at rpearl@comcast.net or 360-885-7662.

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