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Assessment of Small Storage Opportunities and Constraints - Potential Aquatic and Riparian Ecosystem Enhancements in the Swauk Creek Watershed

Swauk Creek is utilized by 15 native fish species, including bull trout (ESA threatened) and steelhead (ESA endangered). Spring Chinook continue to utilize the lower mile of the stream for rearing. Steelhead currently spawn upstream of the Lauderdale junction. Low late season flows through the lower 7 miles of the creek have been identified as a primary limiting factor to salmonid production in the watershed. Maintenance of flows in Swauk Creek at 2.5 cfs at Lauderdale Junction during annual low flow periods (July – October) would maintain surficial flow in the stream and prevent the formation of fish passage barriers to the confluence with the Yakima River. Storage of 300-500 acre feet of water during peak early season flows would enable late season augmentation to agricultural consumptive uses, thus reducing the need to divert creek water during late season low flow periods.