Final Council recommendation (Nov 2006)

Funding category: Expense

Recommended budgets: FY07: $175,000 | FY08: $175,000 | FY09: $175,000

Comment: Interim funding pending wildlife o&m review.

ISRP final recommendation: Fundable

Comment:

The proposal is well organized and written. The proposal clearly states the logical need to provide and maintain habitat in the Iskuulpa Creek Watershed that includes interior grassland, riparian wetland, ponderosa pine, and mixed conifer. Enhancements designed to address limiting factors to fish production, such as reduction of stream temperatures and fine sediment, are clearly explained and tied to the Umatilla Subbasin plan. Past results are documented with benefit to fish and wildlife noted. The proposed project will benefit focal species. Biologically measurable outcomes are identified where possible. Monitoring and evaluation is provided by a directly related project. These benefits may persist over the long-term if human disturbances can be controlled. The project would benefit from a better discussion of possible impact of habitat restoration on non-focal species. Also, the project sponsor should identify the metric to be used for evaluating bird community response. Sharing of personnel and equipment with other projects is commendable. Collaboration with others involved in similar projects outside the subbasin should be explored. Information transfer, in addition to annual reports, should be considered and described. For example, strategies for sharing successes and lessons learned with other teams in the region could be considered information transfer. See ISRP comments on the “Umatilla Initiative” under proposal 198343600.

State/province recommendation: Fundable

Review group: OSPIT - Plateau

Recommended budgets: FY07: $180,983 | FY08: $180,983 | FY09: $180,983

Comment: OSPIT supports Flatline budget at FY07 level.