Clowhom Watershed Species-at-Risk and Habitat Surveys: Year 4

This project will assess and map wetlands, and undertake comprehensive surveys of species-at-risk and their habitat within the Clowhom Watershed. Based on information from habitat and wildlife surveys, project partners will work to implement a comprehensive, multi-species habitat restoration and enhancement plan that will mitigate direct threats to populations, increase and improve habitat for species in the Clowhom Basin, and contribute to the development of Best Management Practices (BMPs) for species-at-risk throughout the region. The diverse public outreach and engagement components of the project will increase community participation in wildlife conservation initiatives and increase public awareness of the valuable wildlife and habitat stewardship activities supported by FWCP and its program partners. A wide range of species will benefit, including: amphibians, small and large mammals, waterfowl, wading birds, songbirds and owls. Species-at-risk include: Red-Legged Frog, Western Toad, Coastal Tailed Frog, Western Screech-Owl, Little Brown Bat and Pacific Water Shrew.

Short-term benefits of this project include:

1. restoration of 2.5 hectares of wetland habitat by creating stable waterbodies in sites not impacted by the harmful effects of water level fluctuations in wetland areas connected to Clowhom Reservoir.
2. improved water quality, and wetland health and function, and road impacts will be mitigated by removing invasive weeds and planting native riparian vegetation at five wetland sites.
3. improved habitat for amphibians, reptiles, invertebrates and grouse, by installation of coarse woody debris at four wetland sites where this key habitat feature is lacking.
4. decreased human disturbance of wetlands and reduced wildlife road mortality by installing interpretive signs, road crossing signs and sensitive habitat signs.
5. increased public awareness and community participation in wildlife and habitat stewardship through a comprehensive public education and engagement program.