Childs Meadow Restoration Project

Phase I of the Childs Meadow restoration project, which concluded in 2019, tested the efficacy of beaver dam analogues (BDAs) in elevating local groundwater levels, increasing carbon sequestration, and supporting sensitive species. The study found that BDAs supported locally higher groundwater levels when maintained, similar to effects from natural beaver dams, while cattle exclusion had a significant positive impact on carbon sequestration. BDA ponds and fencing supported willow establishment, improving habitat conditions for meadow-dependent species such as the willow flycatcher and Cascades frog. The final demonstration project report is provided below.

Phase II of the restoration will protect important peat-rich fens that are essential for successful carbon sequestration and implement process-based techniques to restore channel-floodplain connectivity in the riparian reaches. Specifically, BDAs and PALS (post-assisted log structures) will be installed in Gurnsey creek to limit incision, increase groundwater elevations, attenuate high streamflows, re-invigorate desiccated riparian and wetland areas, and improve habitat for sensitive meadow-dependent and riparian species. A key aim is to facilitate the expansion of the native beaver population in order to promote and maintain the functionality of this wet meadow complex as a high-quality water source for downstream reaches and a climate refuge for native species. Phase II of the project is expected to conclude by 2026.

Products and Resources

Yarnell et al. 2020. Final Technical Project Report submitted to CDFW.

The primary goal of this demonstration project was to restore a portion of Childs Meadow, a 290-acre meadow complex near Lassen National Park in California, in order to increase carbon storage, improve water holding capacity, and increase populations of riparian birds and sensitive meadow-dependent species.