Corps seeks public comments on Cedar Creek ecosystem restoration plan

PORTLAND, Ore. – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is seeking public comments on its draft feasibility study and environmental assessment of ecosystem restoration projects in the Cedar Creek watershed in the vicinity of Springfield, Ore.

Co-sponsored by the City of Springfield and Lane County, the Springfield Metropolitan Waterways Ecosystem Restoration feasibility study recommends restoring floodplain structure and function along three reaches of Cedar Creek, including one near its confluence with the McKenzie River.

The plan calls for improving bank stability and reestablishing riparian buffers, channel meanders and large wood features in order to restore fish and wildlife habitat, protect water resources and provide social benefits.

The draft feasibility study and environmental assessment are available for public review and comment on the Corps’ Portland District website at http://www.nwp.usace.army.mil/media/announcements.aspx.

Questions or comments on the draft documents can be submitted to Environmental Resource Specialist Kris Lightner by phone to 503-808-4748 or e-mail to kristine.a.lightner@usace.army.mil.  Comments also can be submitted by mail to District Engineer, Portland District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Attn: Kris Lightner, CENWP-PM-E, P.O. Box 2946, Portland, OR, 97208-2946.