Delta Ponds Riparian Restoration Assessment

Presenter: Jessica Scott (Environmental Science)

Co-Presenter: Wayland Huynh

Mentor: Peg Boulay

Facilitator: Drew Terhune

Wetlands play an important part in the provision of ecosystem services; they improve drinking water by filtering out various pollutants, can serve as temporary storage basins for rain and snowmelt, as well as reduce the amount of destruction that result from severe flooding. They also create temporary and permanent habitat for a variety of both endemic and endangered species. Located in Eugene, Delta Ponds is a 150-acre waterway site owned by the City of Eugene that borders the Willamette River. Once owned by Eugene Sand and Gravel, the site was largely unmanaged until restoration efforts began in 2004 and continued into 2012. One of the main objectives during that time was to improve in-stream and riparian habitat for a variety of species. Members of the Wetland Research team collected data on restored habitat of Western Pond Turtles, Northwestern Salamanders, Northern Pacific Chorus Frogs and various other species. We also monitored the growth and vigor of various riparian plantings. This data shows the results of previous restoration efforts, and will inform where improvements may be needed in the future. It will be an important aspect of assisting the City in the prioritization of management resources and can serve as a baseline for future restoration efforts.