South Fork McKenzie Restoration

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Earlier this season, I attended the Outfitter and Guide Meeting hosted by the Willamette National Forest Service to stay up to date on special use permits and ongoing projects on the McKenzie River.

One of the most impactful presentations came from district fish biologist Carla, who shared updates on the South Fork McKenzie River Floodplain Enhancement Project—a multi-phase effort led by the McKenzie Watershed Council and aimed at restoring critical habitat and improving river health.

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A Look Back: Phases I & II

Restoration work on the South Fork has already made significant progress.

  • Phase I (2018): Successfully reconnected over 150 acres of floodplain.
  • Phase II (2019): Expanded restoration upstream, reconnecting an additional 20+ acres across a 0.6-mile stretch of river.

These efforts have helped reestablish more natural river flow patterns and improve habitat complexity.

What’s Coming: Phase III (2026)

Phase III is scheduled to take place from May through September 2026, and it represents a major step forward—covering approximately 1,900 acres of restoration.

Currently, sections of the South Fork are constrained to a single, incised channel—about 13 feet deep—with large cobble substrate and steep berms. This limits the river’s connection to its surrounding floodplain and reduces habitat quality.

The upcoming work aims to reverse that.

Project Goals

The primary objectives of Phase III include:

  • Reconnecting the river to its floodplain
  • Improving water quality and substrate conditions
  • Increasing resilience to wildfire impacts
  • Restoring wetlands
  • Enhancing habitat for endangered species, including bull trout and Chinook salmon

How the Work Will Be Done

This is a hands-on, large-scale restoration effort that includes:

  • Regrading sections of the river and creating diversion channels
  • Filling incised channels to raise the riverbed and reconnect flows
  • Carefully collecting and relocating all organisms
  • Removing invasive species
  • Placing and anchoring large woody debris and slash to create habitat structure
  • Rehabilitating disturbed areas after construction

Why It Matters

For those of us who work and recreate on the McKenzie, this project is about more than restoration—it’s about long-term river health.

A connected floodplain supports better fish populations, improves water quality, and creates a more dynamic, resilient river system. These changes will benefit not only endangered species, but also the broader ecosystem—and everyone who depends on it.

Celebrate a McKenzie River Tradition

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Each spring, the McKenzie River comes alive with one of its most cherished traditions—the McKenzie River Wooden Boat Festival. This year’s event will take place on Saturday, April 25th, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Eagle Rock Lodge, bringing together boat builders, guides, anglers, and river enthusiasts for a day dedicated to the history and culture of the McKenzie.

The day begins upriver with a boat parade launching from Finn Rock Boat Landing at 9:00 a.m. A collection of old and new wooden drift boats will make their way downstream to Eagle Rock Lodge, offering a unique opportunity to witness these iconic vessels in motion. Attendees can choose to participate in the float or simply gather at the lodge to watch the boats arrive along the riverbank.

Once ashore, the festival continues with a variety of activities that highlight the traditions and stewardship of the McKenzie River. Visitors can explore a display of handcrafted wooden boats, watch live fly-tying demonstrations, and learn more about the river’s history and ongoing conservation efforts. The event also provides a chance to connect with members of the local guiding community and others who share a deep connection to the river.

The festival is free to attend, with optional lunch tickets available for purchase. Proceeds from food sales and merchandise benefit the McKenzie River Guides Association (MRGA), supporting initiatives such as our nationally-recognized life jacket loaner program, fish planting in partnership with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, and maintenance of local boat landings. MRGA merchandise will also be available, along with complimentary stickers and patches while supplies last.

The McKenzie River Wooden Boat Festival reflects a tradition that spans more than a century, rooted in craftsmanship, community, and care for the river. For those who appreciate time on the water—whether rowing, fishing, or simply relaxing—it offers a meaningful way to celebrate the season and support the people who help preserve this place.

Bring friends and family, and spend the day along the river enjoying one of the McKenzie’s most enduring traditions.

Fish Rock Update

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I wanted to share a recent aerial shot of the log jam at Fish Rock, captured by the Lane County Sheriff’s Office.

At this time, the sheriff’s office is working on a plan to mitigate the situation. While we don’t yet have specific details on what that will look like or when it may take place, it’s encouraging to know that efforts are underway.

As always, river conditions can change quickly. We encourage everyone heading out to stay alert, use good judgment, and be prepared to adjust plans as needed.

We’ll continue to stay in touch with local agencies and will share updates as soon as more information becomes available.