Alarka Headwaters habitat connectvity and sediment reduction project
Alarka Headwaters habitat connectvity and sediment reduction project
The long-term viability of native Eastern Brook Trout in the southern Appalachian mountains is threatened primarily by three stressors: 1) loss of connectivity between fish populations for reproduction and gene flow and between fish and their available habitat; 2) sedimentation impacts on fish health and habitat; and 3) loss of cold waters due to climate change and high elevation land loss/degradation. This project directly addresses the first two stressors by replacing a double-piped culverted stream crossing on National Forest System Road 86 (FSR86) with a bottomless arch pipe (AOP) over Alarka Creek and adjusting the elevation and drainage features on the graveled road approaches to alleviate existing storm sediment inputs. This project is Phase I of a three-phased connectivity and sediment reduction project, with Phases II and III in years two – four involving replacement of two fords with AOP structures, graveled road improvements that reduce sedimentation, and a spruce bog restoration. All phases of this project occur within a high elevation (~4,000 feet) protected area in 100% ownership by the Nantahala National Forest, which indirectly addresses the third stressor. This work is needed to enhance genetic diversification and create a more robust, resilient and thriving group of brook trout populations better able to withstand a warming climate. It is a project that supports goals of the State of NC’s Wildlife Habitat Action Plan, Trout Management Plan and the Pisgah-Nantahala National Forest’s Land Resources Management Plan.
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