In Wyoming’s rugged terrain, the Star Valley Chapter of Trout Unlimited is actively engaged in habitat restoration, focusing on the dual goals of enhancing local ecosystems and supporting trout populations. Tanner Belknap, Salt River Watershed Manager, recently shared insights into two significant projects that highlight the chapter’s commitment to environmental stewardship within the valley.
A few years ago, Trout Unlimited completed a successful restoration of five miles along Tincup Creek, focusing on the section adjacent to the dirt road. Building on this foundation, the chapter has now turned its attention to the backcountry, where they have recently completed 1.6 miles of habitat restoration upstream. This ambitious project utilized draft horses to transport logs into the stream, a method both sustainable and effective in re-elevating the stream bed and reconnecting it to its floodplain.
Belknap emphasizes the importance of this restoration work: “Everything we can do to reduce erosion and reconnect floodplains at those higher elevations will help us have cleaner water, more water, and higher summer flows down in the river and at lower elevations at those tributaries.” The project aims to improve trout habitat, enhance stream function, and bolster groundwater storage, vital for the health of the ecosystem. In addition to the physical restoration efforts, the chapter is documenting this journey. A film about the Tincup project is set to be released in a month, highlighting the challenges, triumphs, and teamwork involved in this significant undertaking.
Looking ahead, Trout Unlimited has ambitious plans for the Salt River. Currently, the chapter is designing two major projects: one mile of restoration at the Clarks Barn public access and 2.5 miles in the Narrows. These projects promise to further enhance the river’s health and the habitats it supports. However, as Belknap notes, there is some uncertainty regarding federal funding for other projects, which could affect the scope of their ideas and plans. “We’re waiting to hear more about that to figure out how large of projects we’ll be able to pursue,” he explains. Despite the challenges, the chapter remains steadfast in its mission, ready to adapt and continue its vital work.
Through projects like those at Tincup Creek and the Salt River, the Star Valley Chapter of Trout Unlimited exemplifies a proactive approach to conservation. Their efforts not only aim to restore and enhance trout habitats but also contribute to a healthier ecosystem for generations to come. As they forge ahead, the community looks forward to seeing the positive impacts of their work unfold along these beautiful waterways.
