The Walla Walla Basin Watershed team identified Couse Creek as an important area for steelhead production within the Walla Walla Subbasin, and degradation of this system could have a particularly harmful impact on the Walla Walla population. The Couse Creek Watershed Assessment and Action Plan provided the framework to protect and restore ecological function within the Couse Creek watershed to benefit native fish and wildlife while maintaining sustainable agricultural practices. WWBWC evaluated Couse Creek hydrology, water temperature, geology, geomorphology, fish habitat, and sediment inputs. The Couse Creek Watershed is almost exclusively privately owned. Residents participated in the assessment by granting access for WWBWC staff to complete monitoring and survey work, and by sharing historical accounts and knowledge of conditions. Assessment findings will be incorporated into a Walla Walla Basin-wide assessment effort currently underway. Assessment results and goals for protection and improvement are documented in the report. This assessment effort led to multiple restoration projects, as seen below. Follow their links to learn more about this area:
