Reed College Canyon

Canyon Restoration

Reed College is currently in the middle of two large-scale projects to restore the canyon area and enhance wildlife habitat. One project is the construction of a fish ladder that will reconnect the lake and the lower creek. The other project is the removal of invasive weeds and the restoration of native vegetation in the canyon.

For a good introduction to all of the ongoing restoration projects, please read an introduction to the restoration projects, written by Diane Gumz, Director of Corporate and Foundation Support at Reed. This page gives information on both of these projects.


Fish Ladder

Reed Lake was created sometime near the turn of the century by the construction of a 10-foot-high dam across Reed Creek. The creation of the dam blocked fish passage, as the creek was re-routed through a culvert system that discharged to a steep waterfall.

Over the summer and fall of 2001, Reed College constructed a fish ladder to re-establish connectivity between Reed Lake and the lower creek for resident and anadromous fish.

Fish Ladder Construction Photo Album
For those of you who missed the big project, we've collected some great shots so you can see how our fish ladder was put together.

Fish Ladder
Opening Day
On November 16, 2001, a small group of ichthyphiles gathered at the west end of the canyon. Champagne corks popped, the gates were opened, and water flowed through the fish ladder. For the first time in 85 years, the upper reaches of the canyon were accessible to fish. And, right on schedule, the heavens opened and we all got thoroughly drenched. If you missed the fun, you can still see the pictures.

   Vegetation Management

If you've been in the Reed canyon sometime in the past 6 months, you've probably noticed a big difference in the vegetation. You've probably also wondered about those big piles covered with black plastic.

Enhancement Strategy
Here's the complete enhancement plan for the Reed Canyon, prepared for the college by Dennis O'Connor and Kendra Smith. You can read all the details of how the college plans to remove invasive plants and restore the native vegetation.