Bellevue Side Channel Enhancement Project

In April 2023, the Bellevue Side Channel Enhancement Project was completed, returning the Big Wood River to a multi-threaded riverway. This project aimed to enhance flood conveyance and fish habitat by reconnecting floodplain side channels near Bellevue. It involved stakeholders like Blaine County, Riverside Estates HOA, City of Bellevue, Flood Control District #9, Wood River Land Trust, and Drinkers of the Wind Arabians Ranch.

 

Key objectives included:

- Reconnecting and improving side channels to boost flood flow capacity.

- Stabilizing localized bank erosion with bioengineering techniques.

- Reducing or avoiding increased flood hazards near development.

- Implementing self-maintaining treatments to maximize ecological value.

 

The project included extensive planning and the removal of 10,000 cubic yards of material. This opened 1,700 feet of floodplain and side channel habitat, improving habitat diversity for trout and reducing flood risk to neighbors.

 

Restoration involved:

- Side channel excavation.

- Installing several log jams to maintain channel alignment during high flows.

- Stabilizing banks with re-grading, large wood placement, and bioengineered revegetation.

- Over an acre of floodplain revegetated with native cottonwood and willow species.