SARP: Southeast Aquatic Resources Partnership

Mackey's Creek Habitat Restoration Project Site

The eroding stream bank destroyed spawning habitat and reduced water quality for others in the ecosystem

New spawning site after stream bank stabilization and benthic adjustments

Introduction:

The initial phase of a project to restore a Gulf Coast strain of walleye (Stizostedion vitreum) population which had been in decline since the 1970s, was undertaken on a headwater stream of the Tombigbee River. The goal was to improve the spawning and rearing habitat by stabilizing a section of stream bank and to stop a head cut from advancing upstream.

Description of Site:

• The stream bank had washed out due to downstream modifications of the stream channel.

• Over the long term, restoration will result in about 7 miles of restored habitat.

Problem:

• Existing habitat compromised populations of crystal darter, Alabama hog sucker, southern sand darter, Tombigbee darter, rock darter, freckled darter, and spotted bass as well as walleye.

• Degraded habitat did not support spawning or juveniles.

Strategy:

• Construct an 80-ft long rock dike and backfill to restore the natural slope.
• Seed the bank and plant willows to prevent erosion.
• Place washed gravel in the adjacent shoal to create a potential spawning site.
• Stock with hatchery-reared fish.

The on-the-ground restoration is roughly 75% completed. In Phase II, an adjacent waterfowl pond will be renovated for use as a grow out pond for fingerlings. Fish and habitat monitoring are currently being conducted.