Build Beaver Dam Analogues at Hall Creek

Date: Saturday, August 9 (9:30 am) - Sunday, August 10 (3:00 pm)

Location: Packwood, WA

Description: It’s no secret that we at CFC have a deep admiration for beavers! Their dams create great habitat for fish and other aquatic species. In fact, their dams are so effective that we like to mimic them in the form of Beaver Dam Analogues (BDAs) in our restoration work. At one time beavers were active on reaches of Hall Creek, a tributary of the Cowlitz River, but they are no longer maintaining all of their dams. Join us as we use BDA techniques to stabilize the relic beaver dams to improve habitat for salmon. We will drive in wooden posts to reinforce the existing dams and use slash to add additional structure. 

This project is located in the town of Packwood and we will be able to camp onsite. We may be able to accommodate requests to join for Saturday only. If you are interested in this option please reach out to us at trips@cascadeforest.org before registering. 

Work Conditions: We will be working in and alongside the stream throughout this trip. We will use post pounders, loppers, and other tools to drive posts and to cut and install vegetation. These tasks will require lifting arms above shoulder level and repetitive motion. This is a physically demanding trip and we encourage everyone to work at a comfortable pace. 

Gear: Please bring rubber boots or waders, appropriate layers for the weather, sun protection, a daypack to carry your gear in the field, enough food for Saturday and Sunday, water, and camping equipment. There will be a place to refill water on Saturday evening.

CFC will provide gloves and tools. We also have rubber boots available to borrow. Your registration confirmation will include a complete gear list and information on how to borrow boots. 

Transportation and Vehicle Access: Please contact us at trips@cascadeforest.org if transportation is a barrier to participation. We can arrange carpools if necessary. Our work site can be reached via paved roads and we will be able to park in a gravel parking area.