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Stream Mitigation: Oregon's Innovative Approach for Function-Based Accounting

Grey Wolf
Melody Rudenko
Oregon Department of State Lands
Salem, OR

Authors: Wolf, G., Rudenko, M., Hicks, D., Nadeau, T.-L., Coulombe, R.

The Stream Function Assessment Method (SFAM) provides a scientifically supported, rapid assessment tool for gathering information on the environmental and community benefits – the functions and values – associated with wadeable, non-tidal streams in the context of its riparian area and floodplain. In a regulatory context, SFAM is used to inform alternatives analysis and the selection, design, and monitoring of compensatory mitigation sites under Oregon’s Removal Fill Law and Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. The method may also be used broadly whenever a rapid function-based assessment could help inform management, conservation, and restoration decision-making and monitoring efforts.

During this presentation we will identify aspects of SFAM that are unique among stream assessment methods and how those features support Oregon’s function and watershed-based stream mitigation program and inform restoration practices in Oregon. These aspects of SFAM include:

  • SFAM defines the functions that support a stream ecosystem,

  • SFAM identifies measures that can be assessed to quantify the functional status of a steam reach,

  • SFAM assesses the value of the functions provided by a stream reach within its broader landscape,

  • SFAM provides scoring outputs that are comparable across stream reaches statewide,

  • SFAM is sensitive enough to detect changes in stream functions from stream projects,

  • SFAM can be used to inform mitigation design choices, and

  • SFAM scores serve as input for a separate mitigation accounting protocol that calculates credits and debits.

In addition to being the stream assessment method required by the state of Oregon for permitting stream projects, other Pacific Northwest states are using regionally specific information to adapt SFAM to their permitting and mitigation programs. This adaptation process is repeatable for other regions. Oregon’s example demonstrates how the use of SFAM can support better decision-making and improved outcomes in stream programs.

 

About Grey Wolf
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About Melody Rudenko
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