Chicken Creek Historic Channel Restoration & Enhancement

Stream restoration adds ecological function, habitat diversity, and recreational and educational opportunities to a treasured urban wildlife refuge.

Chicken Creek once wound its way to the Tualatin River along a curvy course through what is now the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge. A century ago, however, the creek was straightened to support agricultural use.

Working with Clean Water Services, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and other project partners, Biohabitats helped restore Chicken Creek’s natural, curving flow and regenerate its stream, wetland, and floodplain functions.

The restoration involved installing large, woody debris structures. This strategy mimics the way tree debris naturally enters and settles in stream and wetlands systems and will work in tandem with anticipated beaver activity. The result provides habitat for a diverse array of fish, aquatic insects, and other forms of native wildlife. It will also provide visitors with new opportunities for hiking and birdwatching.