Restore and enhance water resource function and distribution at the appropriate watershed level. Prioritize watersheds based on condition and a variety of resource values, including wildlife

Approach

Tactics

Reduce biomass to reduce evapotranspiration and mortality resulting from water stress for groundwater-fed systems (thinning and other vegetation treatments) and maintain shade for non-groundwater fed systems.
Increase water storage by managing for beaver populations using a comprehensive beaver strategy, and by reducing cattle impacts on small water sources.
Protect headwaters, spring heads, and riparian areas.
Provide enhanced water distribution with appropriate wildlife use designs and balance water use with wildlife needs.

Sensitivity

• Increased duration and periodicity of drought and reduced soil moisture will stress vegetation and aquatic wildlife species.

Strategy

Maintain and enhance hydrologic processes