This study evaluates the survivorship of planted trees at the Elysian Meadows restoration site with and without tree shades. With the increase of drought associated with climate change, the Skagit River System Cooperative is researching new strategies to overcome challenging growing conditions, such as alluvial soils. The forestry industry uses plastic shade stands called tree shades in harsh site conditions to protect seedlings from intense solar exposure and wind. We hypothesize that shade increases tree survivorship on well-drained planting sites.
The Skagit River System Cooperative is working to restore native vegetation on 14 acres within the 112-acre Elysian Meadows conservation easement located to the west of Concrete on the north side of the Skagit River. The site is in the Skagit River floodplain with several swales that receive high water flows and have the potential to become side channels. This portion of the Skagit River supports five salmon species, as well as cutthroat trout, steelhead, and native char. Juvenile salmon use floodplain areas and associated side channels as rearing habitat for foraging and refugia.
