Post-Caldor Fire Stream Aggradation using Beaver Dam Analogues: Saxon and Trout Creeks

The watersheds within and downstream of the Caldor Fire Scar presented an opportunity to use the expected erosion from the landscape to promote channel aggradation within incised areas of the creeks. 80 BDAs were installed along Saxon and Trout Creeks, concentrated in areas that benefited from channel aggradation and riparian width expansion potential. Monitoring has shown a more dynamic channel morphology, increased aquatic species habitat complexity, channel aggradation, increased inset floodplains and improved floodplain connectivity. BDA projects can extend restoration efforts into remote areas where conventional projects would be cost prohibitive.