BIG FLAT MEADOW RESTORATION PROJECT


Several ponds were created in what was formerly a deeply incised channel. They retain water for extended periods creating wildlife habitat.	A staff gauge and flow meter were installed at the top and bottom of the meadow to monitor changes in the flow regime.	The creek was diverted into a 4,050 foot long shallow channel. The creek has overflowed the new channel several times, thus dissipating downstream flood flows.

Pre- and post-project ground water monitoring has been accomplished using 4 inch PVC pipe as piezometers.	This piezometer captured vegetative material when flood flow exceeded the channel capacity and accessed the meadow surface.	The newly constructed channel was designed to be shallow, narrow and sinuous which is thought to be the form of historic Cottonwood Creek.