The Problems

• 85% of Tillamook Bay wetlands have been lost through diking and filling
• Subsequent increases in flooding, habitat loss, and diminished water quality

Background

In winter 2004 a private landowner (Property A), approached TEP with interest in restoring his wetlands at the mouth of the Miami River, in the Tillamook Bay estuary. Specifically, the landowner wanted to restore tidal connection, while providing rearing habitat for juvenile salmonids. Another property across the Miami River (Property B) also possessed wetland restoration potential. TEP contacted this landowner regarding the inclusion of his property in the project and he was supportive. Working with the two landowners, TEP set up the following three phase process.

Phase I: Site Characterization and Enhancement Plan
Review the Phase I Final Plan here.

Because limited data was available about the site, this first phase provided TEP with the information necessary to design a restoration plan that maximizes wetland function and overall habitat values. TEP's goal was to conduct a site characterization and assessment of the two properties. Next, TEP would develop restoration alternatives based upon the characterization and assessment.

In 2007, TEP hired a consultant who completed the characterization and assessment, and developed three restoration alternatives. An Advisory Committee has selected a preferred alternative. The consultant has completed the Draft Miami Wetlands Restoration Habitat Enhancement Plan, which includes a characterization of existing wetland, avian, fishery, wildlife, botanical, and hydrological resources, two restoration alternatives, and a third (preferred) alternative.

The preferred alternative aims to maximize historic tidal spruce swamp habitats by increasing tidal connections to the Miami River, filling ditches, placing large wood in the stream channel and floodplains, and removing non-native plants and re-establishing natives. Once the preferred alternative is approved by the landowners, TEP will proceed with Phase II.

Phase II: Design & Engineering

Phase II of the project will elaborate on the preferred alternative selected by the Advisory Committee and landowners in Phase I. Specifically, TEP's consultant will complete the final design, including engineering and construction specifications for the preferred alternative. Other Phase II activities include environmental permitting, wetland delineations, surveying, and archaeological investigations.

Phase III: Project Implementation

Phase III will implement the final design and engineering plans on-the-ground. Activities will include construction of the preferred alternative components described above.