DESCRIPTION
This proposal focuses on improving salmon habitat in and near the waters on (and flowing onto) the Quinault Indian Reservation (QIR) by detecting and treating knotweed and other high-priority invasive plants. Reed canary grass and Himalayan blackberry may be addressed in the upper Quinault River watershed.
The Lower Quinault River Invasive Plant Removal Phase 10 is a restoration project that restores the riparian corridor within the Quinault River watershed by controlling invasive species, primarily knotweed, polygonum spp. from RM 20-10. The herbicide control treatments will be conducted by a local workforce utilizing backpack sprayers with experience and knowledge of the landscape. The project will protect habitat by surveying reaches which have been previously treated as well as treating targeted areas for Himalayan blackberry to allow native plant recruitment. The priority species supported includes Steelhead, Coho, Chinook, Chum, Cutthroat, Bull trout and Sockeye. These species are supported by restoring the riparian corridors back to native plant habitat that provide proper nutrients, bank stabilization, large woody debris, and shading. This project is a continuation of efforts that have been ongoing for years. The progress and achievements to date have been significant, but the treatments and surveys must continue to reach optimal reduction in invasive species.