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Mar-20-O1 08:44 USFS~orwood RD 970327+4261 P.1O <br />-2- <br />carried the river and river shifting would not present a <br />substantial problem. The original proposed drop structures have <br />not been constructed, leaving the river to form its own stair- <br />step channel bottom. This characteristic is evolving noticeably. <br />The San Miguel River downstream of the confluence with the <br />South Fork was modified to develop a defined right bank. In <br />addition, the gravel dike along the center of the channel has <br />been lowered substantially. TI-.is dike was not removed since the <br />channel inverts or. each side are at different elevations, and <br />complete removal could adversely alter the channel stability. <br />Portions of the dike are still at a higher elevation than desired <br />and will be lowered. An area about one-third acre in size. which <br />is part of the high flow channel, is expected to evolve into a <br />wetland area. <br />Although earthwork has been performed to assist the self- <br />healing of the system it was recommended that vegetative <br />plantings be incorporated to better visually define the channel <br />banks. Such definition will serve as a barrier to encroachment <br />in the future and also help avoid misunderstandings by those who <br />monitor the area from the highway nearby. Vegetation of massive <br />bare areas will not occur due to the high cost of such an <br />operation (requiring base soil as well as topsoil) and the high <br />risk of failure. The general approach is to assist the river to <br />heal itself with limited investment of resources and risk. <br />The river system has not yet stabilized and the <br />effectiveness of work performed can only be determined after the <br />river has the opportunity to respond to the work. Monitoring of <br />the situation and adjusting effort to assist stabilization of the <br />river should continue until c':ear evidence of stable conditions <br />has been achieved. <br />Additional volunteer efforts a[ hiotechnical s*_abi'_i..,aion <br />and visual enhancement are strongly encouraged by the Corps. <br />If you have any questions, please write to Mr. Nick Mezei or <br />telephone (970) 243-1199, extension 12. <br />Sincerely, <br />Ken acobson <br />Chief, Southwestern Colorado <br />~ Regulatory Office <br />402 Rood Avenue, Room 142 <br />~i Grand Junction, Colorado 81501-2563 <br />