Given the degradation of many instream and riparian habitats throughout Utah, the need for extensive stream restoration is apparent. Currently, Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (UDWR) restoration biologists are working to address this need; implementing projects on several tributaries throughout Utah. With proper training, more balanced staffing, and an exchange of information among trained UDWR personnel, the number of stream restoration projects undertaken annually throughout Utah can be maintained. However, such an effort will require a division of duties between Habitat and Aquatics section and development of a well-planned training program for UDWR personnel.

To train Aquatics and Habitat section personnel in Rosgen stream restoration methodologies, use of beavers in stream restoration, and wetland delineation.

Out-of-state travel restrictions may hamper project completion. Failure to complete restoration of streams due to a lack of trained personnel might jeopardize landowner negotiations for stream access or reduce the success of fisheries management and water quality improvement efforts.

Recently, a document entitled; "Guidelines for Regional Stream Restoration Project Staffing and Training Course Attendance" was recently drafted. In an effort, to identify roles and responsibilities regarding stream habitat improvements with in the state, Habitat and Aquatics section personnel in the Salt Lake Office were charged with the development of staffing and training guidelines for UDWR stream restoration biologists. It is anticipated that these guidelines, combined with a list of recent stream restoration efforts, will provide sufficient evidence for allocation of future funds. Trained biologists will undertake projects to address water quality issues related to EPA-approved TMDL. Additionally, well-trained biologists will be able to address threats to conservation species identified in the WAP. Implementation of stream restoration projects will allow for accomplishment of UDWR Aquatics Section strategies related to fish habitat enhancement as outlined in the draft strategic plan.

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Improvement of fish habitat, albeit the primary purpose of stream restoration undertaken by UDWR personnel, often results in reductions in erosion, sedimentation, TDS, and NPS nutrient loading. For these reasons, DEQ Division of Water Quality fully supports our efforts as part of a concerted effort to improve water quality throughout Utah.

Compliance requirements (e.g., NEPA, Clean Water Act, Section 7 clearances) are addressed by biologists completing this training.

Funding from this project will be used to: (1) pay for pre-registration, registration, and out-of-state travel costs for 3 Aquatic Section biologists attending Rosgen training, (2) pay for pre-registration, registration, and out-of-state travel costs for 2 Aquatics Section biologists attending wetland delineation training, and (3) pay for pre-registration, registration, and in-state travel costs for 2 Aquatic Section biologists and 3 Habitat Section biologists attending Sediment Transport in Stream Assessment and Design offered at Utah State University.

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Trained biologists will be able to assist with or conduct stream restoration efforts throughout Utah for multiple years. Additionally, trained wetland delineators will provide asssistance with USACE permitting for all projects.

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07/01/2023

06/30/2024

2024

Tuition and associated travel expenses were paid for two biologists to register and attend stream restoration training during FY 2024.

Training biologists has been a priority for numerous years and has resulted in maintaining and improving habitat for wildlife throughout the state.

We will continue to pursue Rosgen training offered by Wildland Hydrology and Wetland delineation training.