Project Profile: Restore Coal Creek Mine

Coal Creek Restoration Site in Yukon-Charley Rivers National Preserve.

Photo by Seth Adams

Bipartisan Infrastructure Law
Revegetation of Hazard Mine Lands | FY23-25 $2,079,000

The National Park Service is conducting a stream assessment and developing a natural channel design and restoration plan for Coal Creek incorporating road access and habitat restoration for Chinook salmon in Yukon-Charley Rivers National Preserve. Stream restoration will improve salmon habitat and protect cultural resources and park infrastructure.

Why? Coal Creek, a tributary to the Yukon River, was extensively mined by large-scale dredging, resulting in a heavily impacted riparian habitat, adversely affecting salmon habitat and causing flooding and erosion that damage cultural resources and park infrastructure.

What Else? In addition to degraded salmon habitat, the creek is affecting park infrastructure. The park’s only backcountry administrative facilities are located on Coal Creek, and Coal Creek Camp is a base of operations for wildland fire, resource protection, science and education. It contains public use cabins, trails, and an airstrip. The creek is eroding the airstrip, while the access road is deteriorating. Thus far, one historic cabin has been destroyed by the creek and another is partially destroyed.

Learn More About This Project

Bipartisan Infrastructure Law

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law makes critical investments in the resilience and restoration of America’s lands, skies, and waters, and enhances conservation and recreation opportunities. Visitors will see tangible results such as repaired and upgraded trails and campgrounds, removal of invasive species, as well as healthy wetlands, grasslands, and forests.