Summary of Existing Information, 2000

NOVEMBER 2000

CRYSTAL SPRINGS CREEK FISH

AND WILDLIFE HABITAT

ASSESSMENT

Section II. Task 3 DRAFT Report

Summary of Existing Information

Prepared for:

Portland Parks and Recreation

1120 SW 5

th

Ave., Suite 1302

Portland, OR 97204

Prepared by:

Adolfson Associates, Inc.

333 SW 5

th

Ave., Suite 600

Portland, OR 97204

DRAFT Task 3 Report: Summary of Existing Information

Tentative Outline for Final Report

I.

Introduction and Purpose

II.

Task 3 Report – Summary of Existing Information (this report)

III.

Task 4 Report – Habitat Assessment

Subwatershed Context

Reach Designations

Reach Characteristics

Summary and Conclusions

IV.

Task 5 Report – Development of Alternatives

V.

Tasks 6 and 7 Report – Land Acquisition Assessment

VI.

Summary (optional)

Adolfson Associates, Inc.

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II. Summary of Existing Information

II.1 Background

Task 3 of the Crystal Springs Creek Fish and Wildlife Habitat Assessment and

Alternatives Assessment identifies the need to perform a review of and prepare a summary documenting existing information and studies on Crystal Springs Creek .

As part of this review, Adolfson Associates has reviewed more than 40 documents of relevance to Crystal Spring Creek (CSC). A bibliography is provided as an attachment.

This review includes historical, planning, facilities, hydrologic, habitat, and general descriptive documents, including related documents for Johnson Creek, to which Crystal

Springs Creek (CSC) is tributary.

This summary has a primary focus on existing conditions, problems, and habitat and land use issues but also provides an historical perspective of past developments. Key reports documenting management and improvement efforts for the period 1995 to present are discussed in greater detail. The summary provides a tabulation of the status of outstanding issues that have specific relevance to the identification of viable fish and wildlife habitat management and enhancement alternatives.

II.2 Historical Overview

Native American use of the CSC watershed is generally undocumented. An artifact (a spear or dart point) was found in the Reed Canyon area, close to 37 th

Ave. and Steele St.

(SHPO Site 35MU59); this is considered an Early Archaic occupation, approximately 6-

9,000 years old (Ellis, Dave. Personal Communication. 11/17/00). The nouveaux

American history of CSC is almost as old as Portland itself. Initial site modification activities took place as early as the 1850’s because the area was flat, had good water and soils, was close to town, and was, apparently, not as heavily forested as many other areas.

The following brief history has been developed based on a review of maps and documents available at the Oregon State Historical Society and various City of Portland departments.


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II.2.1 Development Chronology

1847: Alfred Llewelyn took up a Donation Land Claim north of Glenwood St where it meets 36 th

Ave. and directly to the west of that line; built a furniture factory on Johnson

Creek that had a dam for water power.

Jacob Wills Land Claim includes 641.71 acres of federal land grant, all of Eastmoreland

South of 28 th and Tolman to 36 th , and Glenwood. Jacob Wills operated a sawmill near

Johnson Creek and lived between Tacoma St. and Tenino St. between 23 rd and Southern

Pacific Tracks. Mill was complete with a dam, and sawed 10,000 feet daily. The trees were cut on East and Westmoreland.

1852: Federal Survey Map shows the Crystal Springs area as one of swamps and large agricultural parcels; numerous side channels are indicated. Interestingly, this early map shows CSC connecting Johnson Creek to the Willamette River in the area now occupied by OMSI.

1854: Cadastral Survey Map still shows the area as one of streams and swamps, with one creek draining north to the Willamette River, and the other draining to Johnson

Creek. Large parcels belonging to Edward Long and Alfred Llewelyn are shown. No water bodies (e.g. the future Crystal Springs and Reed Lakes) are shown.

1862: Land Ownership Map added the names Jacob Wills, George Wills, and Clinton

Kelly to large parcels in the CSC valley.

1868: Jacob and Lorana Wills deed the Oregon Central Railroad a 60-foot right of way. Wills insists on a suitable switch to be constructed for his sawmill.


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1889: Union Pacific Map shows the town of Willsburg and outlines the origin at the main springs. This is the first map that indicates a small body of water (lake) to the east of the UPRR tracks in the location corresponding to Crystal Springs Lake (but with a different configuration).

1891: Wills dies and part of his land is parceled off and sold to trust companies, banks, and bankers. William M. Ladd acquired considerable portions of the land claims due to foreclosure, which resulted from failure to pay a note.

1906: Ladd bids $46,520 for Wills parcels

. He eventually acquires Llewellyn’s donation claim as well. These lands were developed into

Ladd’s Crystal Springs Farm

.

This tract included all of Eastmoreland, the Golf Course, Westmoreland, Reed College campus, Reed College “raspberry patch”, and the former Lambert Gardens.

1909: Eastmoreland platted as a residential district. The plat covered the areas south of Bybee Blvd. and blocks 1 to 23.

1910: Another platt notarized that covered Claybourne St to Woodstock blocks 24-46

(no blocks shown between Bybee and Claybourne).

1911: Reed College Created

. A cow pasture from Ladd’s Crystal Springs Farm was converted to form much of the campus. Faculty and students turned the pasture into a lawn.

1912: Construction of streets, sidewalks , water and sewer connections made.

1914: A USGS Map represented by the State Engineer shows both the Crystal Springs

Lake and Reed Lake.


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Circa 1914: Airstrip established in what is now Westmoreland Park

1917: Eastmoreland Golf Course layout developed.

1918: First nine holes of golf course open for play.

1919: Map of Portland area shows a lake as the origin of creek. Also shows confluence with Johnson Creek.

1927: Road around golf course proposed for $14,000.

1931: Waterfowl enhancement . This was the first season that food was supplied by golf course staff to ducks at Crystal Springs Lake.

1936: A 1936 aerial photograph is referenced showing Crystal Springs and Reed

Lakes, and a pond at the confluence of outlets from these two bodies (referred to as Reed

Creek and Crystal Springs Lake Outlet [the Outlet] in this summary). Westmoreland Park was not yet built, nor were any ponds located there. Reed Canyon was heavily forested; the banks of Crystal Springs Creek in the golf course and park were lined with grasses.

Shrubs, and low trees; residential areas bordered the creek from Westmoreland Park area to Johnson Creek (abstracted from Dames & Moore, 1998, p. 34).

1943: Aerial Photo. The northwestern corner of the basin (along RR) is still largely in agricultural use; the pond at the confluence of Reed Creek and the Outlet is visible and largely unvegetated; the northern portion of the gold course has sparse vegetation; the island at Westmoreland Terrace has been created, but no building has occurred.

1945: American Rhododendron Society plans Rhododendron Garden at the

Shakespeare Island site (current location). Area was overrun with blackberries and wild grasses with some tall firs and other native trees.


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1948: Aerial Photo shows areas north and west of Reed College developed for residential uses. The stream channel below McLoughlin Blvd. Has been restructured (in the area of Westmoreland Manor) to form and L-shape and create a small island; the bank vegetation along the golf course has thickened, and both the duck and casting ponds in

Westmoreland Park are shown. The duck pond was lined with grasses and shrubs and other areas of the park show evidence of new bank plantings (abstracted from Dames &

Moore, 1998, p. 34).

1948-1955: Reed College was further developed north and west of Reed Canyon (from

Dames & Moore, 1998).

1966: Aerial Photo: rerouting of the bend (1962) downstream of Lambert St.; construction of Eastmoreland terrace prior to 1966; continued development at Reed

College; development of Rhododendron Gardens had begun (from Dames & Moore,

1998).

1972: Reed College. Construction of theater building spanning CSC completed (from

Dames & Moore, 1998).

1992-1993: Reed College . Construction of chemistry buildings on south rim of canyon

(from Dames & Moore, 1998).

1997: Lower CSC Flooding . Elevated baseflow plus growths of elodea implicated in flooding; Portland BES and ODFW remove elodea in July.

1999: Johnson Creek Park : riparian enhancement and park improvements carried out along CSC in Johnson Creek Park.

2000: Johnson Creek Park. Basketball court removed, paths realigned and paved, additional riparian plantings.


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2000: Stream Improvement Projects . New outlet for Crystal Springs Lake constructed but may not be open until 2001; Reed College removes pool in canyon and plans outlet reconstruction; some reconstruction of facilities at Johnson Creek Park

2000: Aquatic Plantings in CSL.

Parks leads volunteer effort to plant submerged aquatic vegetation throughout the east side of CSL (primarily Rhododendron Gardens).

II.2.2 Resource Planning History

The recent history of resource planning in the CSC basin is intimately tied to resource planning in the Johnson Creek Watershed. The Johnson Creek Basin Protection Plan

(Portland Planning, 1991) included a review of regulations and a general approach for management of wetlands, water bodies, open spaces and habitat areas in the Johnson

Creek basin, specifically including CSC and the Reed Canyon. The plan summarizes pertinent Statewide Planning goals, the implications of zoning and the Portland

Comprehensive Plan, and the roles of various agencies. The plan suggested that Reed

Lake should be a scenic area and that channelization of CSC be reduced; it implied that

CSC and Johnson Creek deserve very different management approaches. The Johnson

Creek Vision (Portland BES, 1992) focused on comprehensive planning to resolve problems associated with land use, flooding, water quality, and degradation of fish habitat. The report summarized specific enhancement projects as models for future activity. Its focus was on the larger Johnson Creek watershed, of which CSC was a small part.

The Johnson Creek Resources Management Plan (Corridor Committee, 1995) addressed issues of water quality and flooding, primarily for Johnson Creek. Habitat enhancement is discussed specifically for CSC and Reed Creeks, and specific recommendations (enhance riparian corridor, plant shrub and canopy trees) are provided for Eastmoreland Golf Course and Westmoreland Park. The report notes that the best opportunity for enhancement of coho salmon runs is for CSC, and lists three staged strategies for implementing improvements, including reconstruction of the CSL Outlet and enhancement of the vegetative communities in the immediate vicinities of the springs.


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Several documents appeared in 1998 including the Dames & Moore Watershed

Assessment (1998) and the Summaries of Resource Site Planning Inventories

(Bureau of Planning, 1998). The former is summarized in more detail in Section II.3, and is primarily a technical study. The latter study provides more detailed resource inventory information for Reed Lake (and canyon), Crystal Springs Creek (as a unit), and the City of Portland/ Milwaukie City Limit, which includes the lower portion of CSC. Resources are listed and a rating score is given for each site. Site 1, Reed Lake, is given a high score of 83, based on resources values of water supply, storm drainage, scenic area, fish and wildlife, flood storage, heritage site, pollution control, sediment trapping, recreation and education are listed. {Note: drainage control, flood management, and sediment trapping are very limited functions in this portion of the CSC watershed}. The middle CSC basin resource area is given a low rating of 39; resource values include recreation, waterfowl, flood storage, pollution control, and education. Site 3 (Lower Crystal Springs and Lower

Johnson Creek) received an overall resource rating of 31 with limited resources value other than fish passage.

More recent documents include the Portland Framework for the ESA Recovery Plan

(Portland, 2000), a Reed Canyon Enhancement Strategy (Smith & O’Conner, 1999), a draft template for the assessment of Portland watersheds, and this report. The planning context for CSC is discussed in more detail in Section III of this report.

II.3 Basin and Stream Description

The Crystal Springs spring and creek complex, although utilized and modified at an early date by local residents, was not studied extensively prior to the modern (1980- current) era. This may have been due to the few problems associated with its management (little or no flooding, constant flow, lack of erosion, good quality), particularly compared with

Johnson Creek. Johnson Creek has been extensively studied due to problems with flooding and flood plain development, water quality, low summer flows, and its greater length and regional importance. The most detailed description of the CSC basin is


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DRAFT Task 3 Report: Summary of Existing Information provided in the 1998 Crystal Springs Watershed Assessment (Dames & Moore, 1998).

This report documents elements of physical features, location, physiography, soils, geology, groundwater, surface water hydrology, water quality, vegetation, fish and wildlife. The report also provides an abbreviated history of land use and watershed transformation events. Much of this description is based on a very limited database with generalized extrapolations from mapping and other land use information. Information from this report and from other sources is summarized here to provide a habitat context for CSC.

II.3.1 Basin Size, Location and General Stream Description

The CSC basin contains approximately 2.8 square miles of land; CSC is approximately

2.1 miles long to its furthest spring source on Reed Creek. CSC is a major tributary to

Johnson Creek. It originates in two groups of about a dozen springs that daylight at the base of Portland Terrace deposits. Historically, these springs collected in what is a prehistoric Clackamas or Willamette River channel and waters flowed north (to the

Willamette River) and south (to Johnson Creek). Because of the flat topography, early settlers were easily able to realign flows so that all drainage now goes to Johnson Creek.

The basin itself consists of an upper terrace, an area of steeper slopes (at the base of which the springs emerge), a flat fluvial floodplain (ancestral river course), and, on the west side, a mid-level terrace that is now Sellwood. The definition of what actually constitutes the Crystal Springs Creek Basin is, however, problematic. The typical concept of a surface water basin cannot be easily applied to CSC since very little surface water generated within the nominal topographic basin reaches the stream. This results from natural soil conditions, topography, and human intervention. Natural soils, particularly on the terraces, were porous and most runoff is readily absorbed. Topography in the floodplain indicates that the basin formerly had numerous seepage channels and that surface runoff was poorly defined. Human modification has resulted in a single channel discharges to Johnson Creek. Finally, urbanization has resulted in the creation of a stormwater collection system that intercepts approximately 95 percent of the runoff water


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DRAFT Task 3 Report: Summary of Existing Information generated in the basin. This stormwater is discharged outside of the basin. Hence, topographic basin boundaries are generally irrelevant (except during extreme rainfall events) in understanding stream hydrology.

Although approximate outlines of the groundwater system feeding the springs can be traced, the extent of this groundwater basin is considerably greater than the topographic basin, and also may vary with climatic cycles. Because of the lack of surface water inflow to the system, groundwater flow is the critical component of the hydrology of

CSC. Reports by the US Geological Survey (USGS 1996; USGS 1995) provide an overview of groundwater sources and movement in the Troutdale Aquifer. Current work by the City of Portland (Bureau of Environmental Services, 2000) an exploratory planned by Parks (Downing, personal communication, 2000) will result in additional groundwater monitoring wells and better definition of basin boundaries, but these studies will not be completed for several years (see also II.3.4 Geology/Hydrogeology).

II.3.2 Surface Water Hydrology

Information on surface water hydrology is summarized in the Dames & Moore report

(1998). CSC is formed from two main branches, one originating in the Reed Canyon and the other being formed when Crystal Springs Lake (CSL) was constructed (around 1890).

These streams have not been consistently named, historically. For the purposes of this summary, the stream originating on the Reed College campus will be called Reed Creek, and the outlet from CSL will be referred to as Crystal Spring Lake Outlet (the Outlet).

Crystal Springs Creek (CSC) will designate the stream after confluence of both branches.

The newly constructed fish passage channel that will provide an additional outlet from

CSL has not been named but will be called the CSL “Flowage” to avoid confusion.

Approximately two thirds of the flow volume of CSC is provided by the Outlet, with one third provided by Reed Creek. When the Flowage is “turned on”, approximately twothirds of the discharge from CSL will go through it. As noted in the Dames & Moore report (Section 2.5 Groundwater), additional flow is likely supplied by direct groundwater discharge throughout the lower portions of the drainage, but this input has


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DRAFT Task 3 Report: Summary of Existing Information not been estimated and no open springs are known (Tancre, personal communication,

2000).

The 1998 report correctly identifies the source of flow in CSC as coming from springs and maps nine locations (ibid. Figure 6). This map is not entirely accurate since a number of additional springs are located on golf course property, in the Rhododendron Gardens, and on the Reed College campus. The situation is complex since some springs may have multiple outlets and numerous seeps and small springs exist in some locations. As far as could be determined from historical records, none of the major springs has ever been named, nor have individual springs been characterized as to flow and water quality. This fact adds to the difficulty of pinpointing problems or identifying solutions. Based on the current configuration of CSL, historical conditions may have included up to five or six small streams segments (prior to creation of the lake) in addition to Reed Creek.

Flow (or stage) data for CSC are summarized in the Dames and Moore report The data record supports the conclusion that flows are determined by relatively constant groundwater discharge, with the only recorded high stage event occurring in June-July

1997. Occasional readings were taken at several sites by the USGS from 1935 through

1998; the earliest record is for 1872. Portland BES maintained a stage recorder near the confluence with Johnson Creek from 1994 though 1998, and Oregon Water Resources

Department (Penian, personal communication, 2000) has recently established a continuous flow gauge at this location (Johnson Creek Park). Additionally, fragmented records are available for discharges from Reed Lake (see Dunne, 1994, 1995, 1996) and the CSL Outlet. Flow data on Reed Creek at the lake outlet indicates some variations in discharge, but these variations may be influenced by beaver dams, irrigation on the Reed campus, and variable measurement methods. Available data confirm that stream flow on

CSC (at Johnson Creek Park) is generally constant, but may have more than one characteristic flow. Flows vary little on a daily or longer basis but are slightly higher in summer. Over the period of record, there appear to be two flow level ranges: 10-14 cfs prior to early 1997 and subsequent to 1998; and 17 - 20 cfs for the period from early 1997 through 1998. This higher 1997-1998 flow level is thought to have been caused by


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DRAFT Task 3 Report: Summary of Existing Information several years of much higher than normal rainfall and subsequently elevated groundwater discharges.

The surface water hydrologic regime is divided into a number of reaches: the springs themselves, Reed Lake, lower Reed Canyon with its steep gradients, reaches with moderate gradients (portions of the both streams on the golf course; near the confluence with Johnson Creek), CSL, and reaches with very shallow gradients (McLoughlin Blvd to

Johnson Creek Park). These reaches were used to help develop habitat reach identifications for this study.

Previous studies (ibid. 1998) and mapping by the City identifies that storm flows to the

CSC system are very limited. Normal storm flows are intercepted by the City of Portland collection system that routes them to the Willamette River or the Columbia Slough wastewater treatment plant. Direct overland surface flow reaches the creek during large rainfall events from the immediate stream corridor lands, especially where soils are finegrained and may be saturated. The Dames & Moore report (1998) documents that recharge from stormwater directed to dry wells in the eastern, upland portion of the basin

(Latourelle soils) contributes less that 3% of the spring flow volume. Numerous visual accounts from Parks and Reed College staff indicate that extreme storm events in 1996

(and possibly 1995) did result in direct storm runoff to Reed Creek or CSC. These events are uncommon (i.e. less than annual).

Surface hydrology in this basin is almost totally controlled by groundwater discharge.

This situation is unique to the Portland metropolitan environment, and extremely rare in urban streams, generally. The unique quality of this hydrology is underscored by the fact that the only recorded flooding on Crystal Springs Creek occurred in the summer of

1997, a period of virtually no rainfall runoff. Causes of this flooding are discussed in

Section II.4.6 Flooding.


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II.3.3 Water Quality

Water quality information is primarily recent and fragmented. Some of this information is summarized in the Dames & Moore report (1998). Data have been collected during separate studies by the USGS (1999), Oregon DEQ, Portland BES, Eastmoreland Golf

Course (1999, 2000), and local school groups. Special class studies at Reed College

(Dunne, 1994, 1995, 1996) provide additional recent information on nutrients, bacteria, and general water quality. Dames & Moore collected additional data at a number of locations as part of the 1998 study. The historical naming of the spring complex (as

Crystal Springs) would indicate that it was water with a high clarity. Data indicate that the water is generally of high quality near its sources (Reed Lake and Crystal Springs

Lake), but that nitrogen, phosphorous, and bacterial levels are significantly elevated. The water is of moderate hardness at 80-90 ppm. Data collected by BES in 1996 and 1997

(published in Dames & Moore, 1998) near confluence with Johnson Creek also indicate elevated nitrogen, phosphorous, and total and fecal coliform levels, but available data suggest that levels are somewhat lower (10-20 percent) than at the spring sources. A number of samples detected elevated oil and grease levels.

In the absence of significant storm runoff and point source discharges (one point source discharge is known to exist on Reed Creek), existing water quality problems are thought to arise primarily from two sources: historic septic and cesspool systems in the terrace deposits above the springs (reference Duniway PTA, 1997 for a discussion of historic development); and large concentrations of waterfowl on both Crystal Springs Lake and the duck pond at Westmoreland Park. Sources for the elevated concentrations of oil and grease have not been identified but may be related to local runoff from streets, however, elevated levels of other common street related pollutants (metals, pesticides, suspended solids) were not detected. Class studies at Reed College (Dunne, 1994, 1995, 1996) provide partial documentation of the limited influence of rainfall on water quality in upper Reed Creek ; they also confirm the high levels of nutrients at the spring sources and reductions in downstream concentrations.


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II.3.4 Geology/Hydrogeology

Both geology and hydrogeology are addressed in the Dames & Moore (1998) report although some clarification on that discussion is warranted. Surface water hyrology is determined by the regional hydrogeology of the Portland terraces, which are part of the

Troutdale aquifer system. This aquifer drains north to the Columbia Slough, west to the

Willamette River, and south to Johnson Creek and Crystal Springs Creek and is recharged by rainfall percolation through porous surface soils over an extensive area of eastern Multnomah County. The water flows north, south and east to discharge locations along the Willamette and Columbia Rivers and Johnson and Crystal Springs Creeks.

Groundwater also moves downward to deeper aquifer zones. The extent of the Troutdale aquifer watershed has been determined by the USGS and others in regional studies

(USGS 1996, USGS ??) however, watershed divides for drainage to the various surface waters are only approximately known. These watershed boundaries (i.e. the portion draining to CSC) may vary seasonally and with climatic cycles. The shallower zones feed the springs sources, while the deeper aquifer zones may recharge directly to CSC in its lower reaches. Portland BES is in the process (BES, 1999) of installing some long term monitoring wells to better define groundwater conditions beneath the terrace deposits above CSC however, data and analyses from these wells will not be available for at least a year. Information from a planned test boring at Westmoreland Park will also help characterize the local hydrogeology.

II.3.5 Soils

The Dames & Moore report (1998) provides a description of surface soils within the topographic watershed boundary. Approximately 6o percent of the area has Latourell

Complex soils which are well drained. These soils are found on upper terraces

(Eastmoreland/Reed) to the east and mid-level terraces (Sellwood) to the west of the

CSC. Moderately well drained soils of the Quafeno complex occupy 15-20 percent of the topographic basin, exclusively along the western margins of the CSC in

Sellwood/Westmoreland. The central portion of the stream basin (approximately 20-25


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DRAFT Task 3 Report: Summary of Existing Information percent) is characterized by Wollent Silt Loam soils, which are poorly drained and classified as generally hydric (i.e. characteristic of wetlands). A northern portion of the topographic basin is mapped in the 1998 report as “Unclassified-urban complex” soils, and likely contained areas of Latourell, Quafeno, and Wollent soils prior to development.

Because of a flat topography and extensive industrial development, historic drainage is uncertain and may have been north to the Willamette River. Small areas of Haploxerolls

(sandy to silty loams) occur in the vicinity of the Reed Lake and some of the springs feeding CSL. As noted previously, because the porous Latourell complex soils occupy the higher elevations and extend at least a score of miles to the east, the groundwater watershed feeding the springs is much larger than the topographic watershed (see Section

II.3.4).

II.3.6 Fish and Wildlife Habitat

A number of studies with a variety of foci (fish, wildlife, and biologic resources) have been completed for the entire Johnson Creek basin; a number of these include an analysis of portions of the CSC Basin. The Johnson Creek Watershed Basin Protection Plan -

Resource Site Inventories (Bureau of Planning, 1991) includes chapters on Reed Lake and CSC, with an evaluation of water resource and habitat values. Habitat ratings for the

Reed Lake and lower CSC stream reaches are provided. The Johnson Creek Basin

Protection Plan (Portland City Council, 1991) includes site inventories for Reed Lake and CSC. The Technical Support Document for Johnson Creek Resources

Management Plan (Bureau of Planning, 1994) contains information on fish populations for lower Johnson Creek including the Crystal Spring confluence area and notes that CSC is listed as critical habitat for coho, fall Chinook, and winter steelhead salmon. Cutthroat trout, shiners, lamprey, and sculpin are also noted to occur in CSC. Ecology of the

Canyon (Moeira, 1995) focuses on the current ecology of the Reed Canyon with some information on historical conditions. It contains a fairly detailed inventory of trees, flowers, grasses, sedges, shrubs, and other plants. Information developed for a recent grant application (Portland Parks and Recreation, 2000) notes that the basin historically was home to bear, deer, elk, muskrat, beaver, otter, mink, cougar, wolf, and salmonids.


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Currently, deer, muskrat, nutria, beaver, raccoon, and possum are known to occur and coyote may also be present.

Additional species and habitat information for CSC is largely fragmented and anecdotal.

Overall, wildlife values are dominated by the predominance of residential and park uses

(Westmoreland Park and Eastmoreland Golf Course) and habitat values in the lower basin are moderate to low. The highest values occur in the Reed Canyon because the central core of this area has remained undeveloped, however, even here the habitat values have been severely compromised by development on the uplands at the rim of the canyon and by the increasing dominance of invasive species thoughout the canyon.

Fisheries information for the basin is likewise fragmented and anecdotal. There are numerous reports of salmon having been historically observed up to the CSL dam and other reports (Angell, personal communication, 2000) that historically, fish made it to the

Reed Creek discharge structure. Most reports (Hoiland, personal communication, 2000;

Angell, personal communication, 2000) also report that the frequency of observation and numbers of fish observed have decreased significantly, especially since the mid-1970s. A

Chinook salmon spawning box has been maintained by a private residence (Clyde

Mumford) on the reach below Westmoreland Park for a number of years. Some of the upstream observations may have been stray non-native fish. Work performed by Ellis and others (Technical Support Document No. 8 for the Johnson Creek Resources

Management Plan, Bureau of Planning, 1994) summarizes detailed salmonid sampling in

Johnson Creek, including a more limited sampling on Crystal Springs Creek. The report also summarizes some observations of local residents and provides recommendations for improvement of salmonid habitat. A recent in-stream habitat survey by ODFW (ODFW, personal communication, 2000) did not observe salmonids, although a small number of cutthroat trout were observed. {reserve section for summary of ODFW 2000 survey}

Reports summarizing avian, amphibian or reptilian surveys were not identified in the literature (BOP,1991).


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II.4 Basin and Habitat Issues

Both recent and earlier reports identify a number of concerns regarding CSC. This section provides a brief description of each problem, its origin, and potential solutions based on existing information. Each problem is discussed, primarily, from the standpoint of its impact on fish and wildlife habitat, however, other critical concerns are also discussed.

There is some overlap between the causes and impacts of the different problem issues.

II.4.1 Stream Course Modifications

Stream course modifications began in the last half of the 19 th

century and continued, for various specific purposes, through the 1940s. Many of these modifications are documented in Section II.2.1. These modifications have resulted in fewer channels, reduced riparian area, stabilized channel banks, and specific water features (the Rivelli

“flume”, Reed Lake, Crystal Springs Lake, an underground pipe feeding the casting pond at Westmoreland Park, the Rhododendron Garden, the duck pond, and the Westmoreland

Terrace island). The cumulative impact of historical modifications have not been documented, but in general, most changes appear to have resulted in reduced habitat diversity and loss of access of fish to upstream areas. Additional modifications are planned or underway (Reed Lake outlet, CSL flowage, duck pond and Westmoreland

Park channel modifications). Current and planned modifications are intended to restore fish and wildlife habitat values.

II.4.2 Loss of Riparian Habitat

Riparian habitat in the Crystal Springs Creek basin was converted to agricultural uses prior to the turn of the century (Cutting, date uncertain; Duniway PTA, 1977); the process continued as development proceeded through the 1940’s. A late as 1943, the northwest much of the northwest portion of the basin was still in agricultural production. These activities did not have the same degree of impact on flooding, peak flows, and sedimentation as in many other Portland area streams (notably Johnson Creek) because of


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DRAFT Task 3 Report: Summary of Existing Information the constant flow characteristics of CSC. Nonetheless, channelization and development of riparian areas led to loss of streamside habitats, eliminated resting and rearing areas for salmon, reduced connectivity to surrounding lands, and likely reduced the number of insect prey available for both birds and fish. Major developments (see also II.2.1) included creation of the Eastmoreland Golf Course, development of Westmoreland Park, and establishment of Reed College. The founding of the golf course had mixed effects on habitats: on one hand it preserved stream habitat from urban development, while on the other it reduced wetland areas in favor of open water and managed fairways. The amount of wetland and riparian area lost by the formation of the lake is unknown, but recent efforts on the part of golf course management have focused on enhancing riparian areas.

Creation of Westmoreland Park converted wetland areas to park lawns, a duck pond, and playing fields with the creation of a recreational waterway with minimal habitat value.

The formation of Reed College actually resulted in the preservation of the Reed Lake and canyon habitats from continuing agricultural use and potential urban development. The

Rivelli farm was established prior to the turn of the 19 th

century and may also have resulted in some riparian area conversions. Industrial developments (including the alignment of the Oregon Central Railroad) in the northern corner of the basin likely converted additional wetlands. Loss of riparian habitat has had some impact on flooding in the basin, but this impact has been limited by the removal of storm flows from the basin, and because flooding is a rare event associated with high groundwater levels and channel blockages. Habitat loses from flooding and storm related erosion have probably been limited.

II.4.3 Hydraulic Modifications/ Passage Impacts

Channel blockages and constrictions have significant impacts on fish habitat and use in

CSC. Dames & Moore (1998), ODFW (2000), Johnson Creek Corridor Committee

(1995) and field evaluations from this project document numerous hydrologic modifications that have reduced habitat or created barriers to habitat use. Some of these barriers are documented historically in Section II.2.1.


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Johnson Creek Fish Ladder/ Culverts : An initial barrier is created at the Johnson Creek fish ladder outlet to the Willamette River. This is a poorly maintained fish ladder that may be impassable to late season (Fall) runs of Chinook and coho salmon due to its elevation above low water river stages and erosion at its base since installation. Culverts in the lower reaches, particularly at Tacoma Street, do not impede flow but create longer, higher velocity flumes that make juvenile fish passage upstream difficult.

Westmoreland Park : The duck pond (and channel) in Westmoreland Park creates a large, unsheltered and shallow pond with no refugia from solar radiation or avian predators.

Failing pond and stream walls in Westmoreland Park need rehabilitation and a preliminary correction plan envisages the creation of more extensive wetland and riparian habitats.

CSL Dam : The dam forming Crystal Springs Lake closed off access to approximately five spring headwater streams as early as 1890. A diversion “flowage” has been built to bypass the dam and is scheduled to begin operating in 2001. The old dam will remain and flow will be split between the dam and the flowage. The flowage has been designed to provide enhanced salmonid habitat and passage.

Rivelli Flume : The channelized reach through the Rivelli farm along 28 th

Street SE, including the narrow culvert under 28 th

Ave., does not block flow but creates a continuous reach of high velocity water without resting areas that may block trout and juvenile salmon migration.

Reed Lake : The Reed Lake dam was apparently built around 1910. Its creation increased woodland lake habitat but blocked any fish passage to headwaters areas. The current outfall blocks passage and is scheduled for rehabilitation in 2001/2002. The current design (O’Conner, personal communication, 2000; Angell, personal communication,

2000) envisions an outfall stream specifically designed to enable salmonid passage, while maintaining current lake levels.


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II.4.4 Fish Habitat Modification

Fish habitat destruction has included a number of dramatic and near catastrophic events on CSC. The following chronology summarizes known events, based on a review of listed references, interviews, and other anecdotal information. It is important to realize that the cumulative impacts of all events listed cannot be easily estimated.



Initial drainage modifications to Johnson Creek



Construction of Crystal Spring dam



Channelization @ Rivelli farm



Construction of Reed Lake dam



Construction of golf course



Sellwood/ Westmoreland residential development



Streets and culverts (Tacoma St. area)



WPA channel improvements (primarily Johnson Creek)



Creation of Westmoreland Park duck pond



Vegetation removal along stream @ golf course



Sedimentation of confluence pond (erosion event)



Construction of Johnson Creek outfall



Grading of Burlinton Northern wetland area



Extreme rainfall event with sediment mobilization



Excessive Elodea growth

- circa 1870

- circa 1890

- circa 1900

- circa 1912

- 1916-1918

- circa 1920

- circa 1930

- circa 1934

- mid 1940s

- 1940-1985

- circa 1976

- mid 1970s(?)

- circa 1985

- 1994, 1996

- 1997

Significant efforts to improve stream conditions and habitat can also be summarized, but the record is too recent to identify impacts.



Revegetation of golf course stream banks



Instream and riparian improvement, Johnson Creek Park



Controls of invasives (Reed Canyon)



Riparian restorations(springs) @ golf course



Construction of Crystal Lake Dam bypass (Flowage)

- begin ~ 1985

- 1996

- begin ~1997

- 1998

- construction 2000

- operation 2001



Reconstruction of Reed Lake flume/spillway - pool removal 2000

- reconstruction 2001



Removal of Westmorland Park channel walls (planned)



Native plant revegetation – various reaches



Fish and wildlife habitat assessment



Planting of submerged aquatic vegetation, CSL

- begin 2001/2002

- ongoing

-2000

- summer 2000


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II.4.5 Sediment and Siltation

Sediment and siltation have been sporadic problems throughout the basin, but generally occur at a much lower frequency than for other urban, agricultural, or even forest streams in Western Oregon. The Dames & Moore basin report (1998) documents areas of erosion and sediment deposition, but does not put the situation into a reasonable perspective.

Based on an evaluation of soils, CSC hydrology and stream velocities, current channel conditions, and anecdotal reports, erosion generally occurs when specific construction events result in sediment movement during storms. Channel erosion is very limited because of stream stability and the prevalence of channel stabilization (concrete and rock walls). The peculiar problem for CSC is that sediment loads generated in the upper reaches settle out in the low gradient middle and lower reaches while the constant flow and low velocity of these reaches ensures that these sediments are unlikely to be flushed through the system. As a result, changes to stream habitat caused by rare sediment events may alter habitat functions for a long time period. A singular erosion event reportedly resulted in the in-filling of a pond at the confluence of Reed Creek and the Outlet, with concomitant reduction of high quality fish habitat.

II.4.6 Flooding

CSC is an unlikely candidate for flooding. The only documented flood occurred during the early summer 1997. The following factors have been identified as contributing to, or exacerbating, the flooding: high annual rainfall during the winters of 1995 and 1996; excessive growths of Elodea canadensis in critical channel sections; culvert restrictions; late spring rains; and saturated near-surface soils. Previous reports (Dames & Moore,

1998) discuss the 1997 flood, but no definitive conclusions were reached. Based on information provided in that report, however, and supplemental information (Hoiland,

Tancre, personal communications, 2000) the causes of the flooding were, almost certainly, excessive rainfall in the antecedent years and excessive growth of Elodea . The general increase in spring baseflow is well documented, beginning in 1995; baseflows in

1997 were approximately 50 percent higher (18-20 cfs compared to 12-14 cfs) than the


Page 21

DRAFT Task 3 Report: Summary of Existing Information historic average. Excessive growth of Elodea in early 1997 is also documented, and may have been stimulated by higher flows, changes in nutrient levels (undocumented), or fresh input of sediment from late 1996 storms (documented). Culvert flow limitations

(especially at Tacoma Street), increased recharge from groundwater along CSC, and wetter than usual conditions in the winter of 1996-1997 (approximately double normal levels) contributed to the overall condition. A steady rise in the stage hydrograph (Figure

7, Dames & Moore, 1998) over a period of approximately 3 months, followed by an abrupt decline, is most consistent with the growth and rapid removal of aquatic vegetation under conditions of elevated baseflow, i.e. steady plant growth beginning at the start of the spring photoperiod terminated abruptly with removal. The impacts of both the elevated baseflow and flood flows on fish and wildlife habitats is unknown, but cannot be ignored since it is likely it was these elevated baseflows (and altered stream conditions) that stimulated this exceptional growth of Elodea . It is, however, that the period of high flow significantly modified riparian conditions, particularly within

Westmoreland Park (Tancre, personal communication, 2000). Future management of

CSC should include monitoring and contingency plans for removal of excessive aquatic weed growth, both for flood management and for habitat protection.

II.4.7 Irrigation and Water Rights {incomplete}

CSC withdrawals are regulated by the Oregon Department of Water Resources (OWRD) under OAR Division 502, Section 690-502-0150- Columbia Sub-basin. Water flows are regulated at the stream mouth (confluence with Johnson Creek). Currently, there are two significant water rights being exercised in the CSC basin: Reed College and

Eastmoreland Golf Course. Both are for irrigation (lawn watering) at ____ and ____ cfs, respectively. Currently, Crystal Springs is available for further appropriation when flows exceed 10 cfs (at the mouth), but potential uses are limited to instream, domestic, livestock, and domestic-commercial uses. Two former uses, irrigation at the Rivelli farm on SE 28 th

Avenue, and water use to fill the casting pond, have been determined by the

OWRD (Penian, personal communication, 2000) to be unpatented and therefore are disallowed uses and have been discontinued. Use of spring water for cooling of a small


Page 22

DRAFT Task 3 Report: Summary of Existing Information research reactor on the Reed College campus was discontinued prior to the 1990’s. Reed

College had initiated a water rights conservation program and requested transferal of conserved water (25%) to instream use. This application is pending. ODFW applied for and received an instream water certificate, which guarantees 10 cfs, May through

October, for instream and fishery use. This certificate is junior to existing rights.

II.4.8 Storm Runoff

Storm runoff, typically a major problem in most urban Portland watersheds, is of relatively minor consequence in this basin, since most storm flows are diverted to the

City’s combined collection system. Before this rerouting was complete, storm flows from streets and roads likely impacted the stream. There is anecdotal evidence that storm sediment runoff (from construction) in the 1970’s from the upper Reed Creek basin from singular storm events reduced habitat values below CSL. As noted previously, documented extreme rainfall events in 1996 (and possibly 1994) resulted in sediment mobilization, which changes channel conditions and may have led to excessive Elodea growth in 1997. Even today, elevated oil and grease levels in some samples indicate some problems from localized street runoff may remain.

Typical storm related problems such as event based erosion, street washoff, and channel scouring from peak flows are rare. Storm flows reaching the creek are typically associated with sheet runoff from saturated soils near the stream, and direct runoff from residences. Other areas of direct overland flow are know to occur at 28 th

St., the

McLoughlin Blvd./BNSF corridor, and various street crossings in residential Sellwood.

The degree of impact from erosional runoff from the remaining farms (Rivelli) in the basin is unknown. This farm has been in operation since the turn of the 19 th

century.


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II.4.9 Water Quality

Water quality issues are primarily associated with temperature, nutrients (N & P), bacteria, fertilizers and pesticides, oil and grease, and water clarity. Although data are limited, recent summer temperature measurements (current study) document temperatures in the lower reaches that exceed 70 oF for the entire stream below the duck pond for extended periods during the day. A number of temperature probes have been installed as part of this study to identify potential temperature stress points. These high temperatures likely restrict cold water fish access to and migration in the lower portions of CSC in summer. The duration of these high temperatures and specific impacts on salmonid habitat have not been studied.

Historically, the Westmoreland Park casting pond was discharged to CSC prior to cleaning of the basin in April and May (Tancre, personal communication, 2000). This discharge may have contributed elevated levels of sediment algae, nutrients, and bacteria, but the impacts is thought to be small due to low release rates and the influence of rainfall dilution of casting pond quality during the winter months.

Improvements in water quality are likely to result in improvements in salmonid fish habitat, but the degree of improvement is difficult to predict. Decreases in temperature from better management of water in CSL and the duck pond (and possibly Reed Lake) and better streamside vegetative shading are likely to have significant benefits during warmer months. Potential temperature improvements are constrained by the fact that the springs maintain nearly constant discharge temperatures of approximately 55 oF.

Nutrient and bacteria sources include elevated levels in groundwater from historical use of septic systems and cesspools in southeast Portland (see also Section II.4.10), application of fertilizers (potentially at park, institutional, and agricultural sites), and the influence of large populations of ducks and geese in CSL and the Westmoreland duck pond. Elevated nutrients may encourage the growth of Elodea and noxious plants and bacterial levels may reduce juvenile salmon viability, but these potential effects have not been studied. Excessive growth of Elodea was implicated as a significant factor in the


Page 24

DRAFT Task 3 Report: Summary of Existing Information flooding in 1997. Improvements in nutrient levels may be a slow process if the primary source is from historical groundwater contamination from individual waste disposal systems. Reductions in populations of semi-tame ducks and geese may result in additional water quality improvement.

Land managers at all major facilities (Reed College, Eastmoreland Golf Course,

Westmoreland Park) have active programs to limit the use of fertilizers and pesticides and to control or eliminate direct runoff into CSC and its tributaries.

Fertilizer and pesticides usage is managed by the City at Eastmoreland Golf Course

(Eastmoreland Golf Course Integrated Pest Management Plan, 2000; Eastmoreland Golf

Course Water Quality Monitoring Plan, 2000) and also by Westmoreland and Johnson

Creek Parks. “Sensitive” levels of pesticides have not been detected, although nitrate and phosphorous levels were elevated in golf course sampling. Sampling by Portland BES in

1996 and 1997 (Dames & Moore, 1998) did not show detectable levels of pesticides in

CSC near its mouth. Pesticides and metals in sediment have not been tested. The source of the elevated oil and grease levels in Johnson Creek Park has not been identified.

II.4.10 Septic Tank & Cesspool Contamination

Historical use of cesspools and septic systems in the porous Latourelle soils of the

Troutdale terraces appear to be a likely cause of the currently high levels of nitrates, phosphorous, and bacteria in the spring complex feeding CSC. This condition has likely progressed from the time of development (1920s-1940s) until the area was sewered in the

19__s, however, this process is only partially documented (Duniway PTA, 1977). The impacts of these elevated contaminant levels on fish and wildlife habitat are unknown, but may have led to increased growths of aquatic weeds and changes in the microflora composition of stream channels and the lakes. Available data indicate nutrient and bacterial concentrations are highest near the spring headwaters, with downstream reductions possibly caused by chemical precipitation, dilution, or plant uptake. This water quality condition is likely to persist for several decades until rainfall percolation flushes


Page 25

DRAFT Task 3 Report: Summary of Existing Information nutrients from the shallow and intermediate aquifer systems. There are no practical methods to ameliorate this problem, however, creation of wetlands may assist in removing these contaminants from the water column.

The potential impacts of waterfowl contaminant loadings are discussed in a following section (Section II.4.11). Recent data (Dames & Moore, 1998) document the fact that nitrate, phosphorous, and bacteria levels remain elevated throughout the drainage.

II.4.11 Domestic and Semi-domestic Waterfowl

Waterfowl are attracted in large numbers to Crystal Springs Lake and the duck pond at

Westmoreland Park; lesser numbers are attracted to Reed Lake. These include large numbers of wintering geese and widgeon, mallard, and other wild ducks, as well as significant numbers of resident geese and domestic ducks. Crystal Springs Lake also provides significant nesting habitat for wood ducks. The availability of large mowed grass surfaces is particularly attractive to geese. Although not studied in detail, the large numbers of waterfowl on a continuous basis, particularly in and around Westmoreland

Park, likely contributes significant pollutant loads (nitrogen, phosphorous, suspended material, and bacteria) to CSC. Impacts from suspended materials, color, and turbidity are visible in the outflow from the pond during summer. The impact of these water quality changes on downstream fish habitat is unknown, and may be difficult to separate from impacts of structural modifications. The synergistic effect of park lawns and goose grass cropping produce a near stream habitat that is generally devoid of riparian richness.

II.4.12 Invasive and Exotic Species

Habitat diversity reductions by invasive species have been a documented problem for many years. The problem is detailed for the Reed Canyon habitat area by Moreira (1997), who references work done as early as 1938 by Una Davies (of Reed College) on vascular plants. Additional information and a strategy for corrective action is provided in the Reed

Canyon Enhancement Strategy (O’Conner and Smith, 1997). Historical references


Page 26

DRAFT Task 3 Report: Summary of Existing Information indicate the Rhododendron Gardens were created from a site that was largely overgrown with weeds (Duniway PTA, 1997). The extent of this problem throughout the Johnson

Creek watershed is documented in additional studies (Portland Planning, 1998; Johnson

Creek Corridor Committee, 1994). Assessment work conducted as part of this study provides additional documentation of this problem. Invasive species problems occur primarily in the Reed Canyon, portions of the golf course, and on undeveloped parcels of land. Exotic species are common throughout residential, park, golf course and Reed

Canyon areas. Exotic species (ornamental and landscaping - not necessarily invasive) have mixed impacts on habitat values, but often indicate areas where visual resources have been developed to the detriment of habitat values. Exotic species plantings are common throughout the CSC basin.

II.4.13 Eastmoreland Golf Course Management

The historical development of the Eastmoreland Golf Course is documented in

Eastmoreland (Duniway PTA, 1997) and other sources. Specific management practices are not documented, however, anecdotal observations (Hoiland, personal communication,

2000) and a general knowledge of golf course fashions (the author is a golfer) strongly suggest that the historical emphasis (from the 1920s through the 1980s) was on removal of streamside vegetation, elimination of marsh (wetland) areas in favor of open water, limitation of areas that remained unmowed, and planting non-native (exotic) tree and shrub species. Golf courses generally aggressively manage earth-boring animals (ground squirrels, moles, etc.). In addition, throughout the post WWII period and culminating in the 1980s, use of fertilizers and weed and insect control agents (herbicides and pesticides) was widespread and restrictions on application were primarily economic, rather than environmental. The cumulative habitat impacts of these historical actions and practices are not well documented. However, it should be noted that recent habitat evaluations

(Bureau of Planning, 1998) for the Reed Canyon and the CSC basin as a whole document conditions that are more reflective of past practices than current efforts.


Page 27


Since the early 1990’s, historical management practices at golf courses have been changing. Current practices in golf course management are partially document in

Eastmoreland Golf Course management documents (Conditional Use Master Plan, 1993;

Water Quality Testing Summary Report, 1999; Eastmoreland Golf Course Integrated Pest

Management Plan, 2000). Current emphasis is on: reestablishing streamside vegetation where possible; planting native species; reducing mowed and actively managed areas; limiting pesticide and herbicide use; and managing peripheral area for wildlife (Hoiland, personal communication, 2000).

In addition, plans developed by the golf course (Interfluve, 1999) are guiding the construction of a bypass to the Outlet dam with the specific goal to improve fish habitat and access. This bypass facility (flowage channel) was constructed in 2000 and is expected to be opened in 2001. Other activities have included restoration efforts

(plantings and daylighting of spring headwaters and channels) on numerous springs feeding Crystal Springs Lake (ODFW, 1999), and extensive plantings of native submerged aquatic species in CSL (Parks, 2000).

The future changes to habitats from changes in golf course and watershed management will be evaluated in comparison to the preliminary evaluations (Bureau of Planning,

1998) and the current project effort.

II.4.14 Rhododendron Society Gardens Management

Management of the land and water that comprises the Rhododendron Gardens is dealt with most comprehensively in the Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden Master Plan

(Parks, 1992, revised 1995). Although primarily dedicated to physical enhancement needed to improve the cultivation and display of rhododendrons, the plan does contain general objectives and overall management goals for the natural aspects of the gardens.

The Rhododendron Gardens are zoned Open Space with “c” and “p” zone overlays. The

Plan provides a specific set of recommended wildlife management and environmental practices, specifically focusing on improvement of bird habitat, riparian plantings and


Page 28

DRAFT Task 3 Report: Summary of Existing Information bank modifications, and creation of a wetland garden. Some of these plantings

(submerged aquatic vegetation) were carried out by Parks as a volunteer effort in the summer of 2000.

II.4.15 Westmoreland Park Management/ Park Uses

Westmoreland Park was created in the early 1940s (prior to 1943 based on aerial photographs) and included the duck and casting ponds. An aerial photo from 1936 (Parks archives) shows patches of riparian vegetation from McLoughlin Blvd. to Lambert St. but most of the land appears to have been converted to farm field use at a prior time; park construction had not started. A portion of the park site was used as an airstrip in the 1914-

1930 period. The casting pond was reportedly (Hoiland, personal communication, 2000) fed from on the springs on Eastmoreland Golf Course via a long (wooden?) conduit.

According to OWRD (Penian, personal communication, 2000) the golf course water right does not cover this diversion and the use of spring water for the casting pond has been discontinued. The duck pond is an inline pond. An aerial photo from 1943 seems to indicate that channel banks were not concrete lined at that time.

Westmoreland Park has a variety of general and specialized park uses that include the casting pond, lawn bowling, baseball, soccer, child playground activities, picnicking, and bird feeding. The latter activity is now restricted and discouraged, but still appears to be common. In-stream wading use of CSC is common in summer.

General weathering and use, significantly exacerbated by the 1997 flood event which eroded the banks behind the concrete, has resulted in failures in portions of the concrete bank lining both the CSC channel and the duck pond. Subsidence, caused by normally saturated soils, has resulted in some areas of inundation landward of the concrete banks.

In response to the need to repair and rehabilitate the stream channel, the Parks and

Recreation Department prepared a plan and grant application (Santner, 2000) for stream restoration and wetland enhancement. This plan included conceptual design sketches for bank modifications, wetland, and habitat improvements for the stream channel and duck


Page 29

DRAFT Task 3 Report: Summary of Existing Information pond. The grant application did not receive funding for technical reasons, however, Parks is still considering implementation of elements of this plan.

The predominant management strategy in Westmoreland Park (Tancre, Downing, personal communication, 2000) is mowing to control grass and weeds. Pesticides use is severely restricted and limited primarily to use in tree wells and spot application on invasive species. Fertilizer use is limited to ball fields, and excessive Elodea growths are removed as necessary. Nutria have historically been managed by relocation, however, an effective method of waterfowl reduction has not been identified.

Water quality (and potential health) concerns associated with accumulations of sediment

(at least partially derives from waterfowl droppings) in the duck pond and high levels of waterfowl activity in and around the duck pond are recognized by the Westmoreland Park managers (_____, personal communication). Efforts have been made to discourage feeding of waterfowl, but the practice remains popular. An additional concern with the duck pond is related to its impacts on temperature. Limited data collected during this study (August, 2000) indicate that the duck pond is, for its length, the largest source of thermal loading to CSC due to its broad, shallow (~ 1 foot deep) configuration and the general lack of shading along its banks. Continuous recording temperature probes have been placed at its inlet and outlet to better characterize this influence.

Use of Westmoreland Park is highly varied and some uses are in conflict with habitat values (examples: stream wading serious disturbs channel sediments; waterfowl feeding encourages large, semi-permanent flocks) either generally or in specific park locations.


Page 30


II.4.15 Johnson Creek Park Enhancement

Johnson Creek Park was created in 19___. Because it was located at the confluence of

Johnson Creek and subjected to periodic flooding, there are no records the area was ever farmed or otherwise developed. An aerial photo from 1943 (Park archives) shows the site as largely undeveloped, but with more extensive riparian vegetation. Johnson Creek Park encompasses the confluence of CSC and Johnson Creek. The park has undergone extensive rehabilitation since 1997, including removal of exotic and invasive vegetation from its banks, rebuilding of pathways, removal of playing courts, construction of a new bridge, plantings of native vegetation in the riparian zone and uplands, and park redesign to balance recreation and natural habitat features.

{short paragraph from Tim}


Page 31

Summary of Existing Information, 2000

NOVEMBER 2000

CRYSTAL SPRINGS CREEK FISH

AND WILDLIFE HABITAT

ASSESSMENT

Section II. Task 3 DRAFT Report