Riparian restoration plans

Since 2011, Riley Consulting has prepared Native Plant Restoration Plans for over forty (40) projects in north-central Washington State as part of the Upper Columbia River Habitat Restoration Project (UCHRP). The UCHRP is an endeavor by the Yakama Nation Fisheries to restore crucial salmonid habitat along major tributaries to the Upper Columbia River. Riley Consulting was subcontracted by the restoration contractor to prepare necessary plans and site maps for riparian restoration, including elements of site preparation, seeding, planting, mulch installation, browse protection, and irrigation. Riley Consulting worked closely with the restoration contractor and Yakama Nation project managers to design and prepare native plant restoration plans. These plans often include site maps, descriptions of site characteristics and planned construction activities, assessments of current and post-construction projected conditions, recommended site-appropriate species lists for planting and seeding, methods of installation, opportunities for plant salvage, weed control and management plans, and identification of browse protection options. Plans may also include detailed monitoring and/or weed control protocols and specifications, and cost estimates for implementation. Riley Consulting also led field crews on expeditions to collect site-specific plant material (seed and cuttings) for use on future projects. Collection sites were GPS-located and plant material was tracked by sub-watershed throughout the growing process, to ensure site-appropriate allocation. Riley Consulting performs site visits prior to writing restoration plans whenever possible, maintains frequent and effective communication during plan preparation, and meets strict project timelines for all planning documents.