The Role and Management of Woody Debris in West Coast Salmonid Nursery Streams

Debris removal is a frequently used management technique for small streams in logged watersheds, but many stream-cleaning techniques overlook important habitat requirements of juvenile salmonids. Reviews of some past management practices show little systematic evaluation or monitoring of physical or biological effects. A review of several studies (most of them not associated with debris removal) shows the importance of woody debris as salmonid habitat. The role of organic debris in small stream systems is discussed and a set of criteria for debris removal is proposed.