Riparian Restoration and Erosion Stabilization of a Road Crossing near Richmond Lake Recreation Site

Abstract

In the interior of British Columbia, road crossings are the single largest contributor to stream sedimentation (Beaudry & Associates, 2007; Elliot et al., 1996; Fisheries Target Committee, 1996) and when a new forest service road was constructed to access the Richmond Lake Recreation Site in north-central BC, significant concerns around soil erosion and sedimentation around a small stream crossing arose. Ecological restoration activities in areas developed for recreation must consider other values in addition to ensuring a functioning ecosystem: the safety of recreation users, their enjoyment of the area and community interest play a role in restoration (Govt of BC, 2020a). This project looked at how to balance the interests of people using the area while managing impacts to the ecosystem from road construction.