The Riparian willow habitat unit

The use of riparian planting in stream restoration or fish habitat enhancement is a well known science. However, riparian planting, targeting the creation of trout habitat and for a stream's well being, is a relatively new science, so we have to observe nature. Once we understand the natural processes, we can begin to emulate what the stream would normally provide in a undisturbed natural area. This can all be achieved with only natural materials such as plant cuttings. In fish habitat science, your largest benefit of having plants right along the water's edge will come fast. Then over time, spread out from the edge to the bankfull width and what people refer to as the high water mark.

A single habitat unit can grow and provide multiple habitats as the willow spreads thru its own growth, or starts clonal colonies from a single root system. This is often referred to as suckering. Deciduous trees such as Aspen are great root spreading clonal colonies. Once the native plants are started, the natural seed dispersal starts immediately, even first year plantings can produce catkins and seed flowering. All we have to do is get things started and mother nature will create the masterpiece!

Some trout are more gergarious than others. Brook trout for example, are very comfortable spending the winter months, below ice, in a very confined area. Their cold blooded metabolism is slowed down considerably in the winter, and the trout conserve their energy. It is all about survival! So if there is some space below the cover of a willow plant, overhanging the stream channel, multiple trout can find refuge and survive the winter on their reserve fat.