What is woody debris and why is it important?
Woody debris is a collection of fallen - tree branches, logs and roots that form along the riverbank.
Woody debris is vitally important habitat for fish and other wildlife.
Also known as Fish Forts, these areas provide shade and slow the water down for baby salmon to rest and eat.
Watch the video below learn more about the importance of woody debris.
Our community of Fairbanks, Alaska has grown up around the Chena River. Many of us enjoy recreating on the Chena... but did you know that it's the second largest spawning grounds for juvenile Chinook from the Yukon River Drainage? As soon as these baby salmon break out of their eggs, they rely on woody debris for protection and food.