Scientists Tackle Forest Erosion

Forest Service scientists are using a rain simulator to test water runoff from a new logging road above Cascade Reservoir.

The Spruce Creek road is a part of the Spruce Creek timber sale and was designed to deliver very little sediment into streams which empty into the reservoir.

The rain simulator, a portable sprinkler system, is used to measure water and dirt runoff from the road. It will determine the amount of erosion before logging trucks start running.

Logging trucks on the sale will be required to use Central Tire Inflation, a device that inflates and deflates tires on demand. A softer tire can reduce damage to the dirt roads from heavy truck use.

“Reducing sediment amounts will help improve fish habitat and water quality in Cascade Reservoir,” Cascade District hydrologist Jennie Fischer said.