Phase One: Initial Plantings
Restoration began in 2024, when SJPT’s stewardship team and the San Juan Islands Conservation District planted more than 500 native wetland trees and shrubs along the creek corridor. Willow, dogwood, and other moisture-loving species were carefully selected for their ability to thrive in saturated soils and stabilize streambanks.
These early plantings marked the beginning of rebuilding a healthy riparian buffer — the vegetated area alongside a stream that plays a critical role in protecting water quality.
Aerial view of restoration site along Crow Valley Creek at JB Farm Preserve | Staff archive
Phase Two: Beaver Dam Analogs
Later in 2024, crews installed seven beaver dam analogs — human-built structures designed to mimic the natural engineering of beavers.
These low-tech structures slow the flow of water, encouraging it to spread out and pool in shallow areas. Throughout this process, water soaks underground like a sponge, recharging our vital freshwater aquifers and promoting wetland habitat.
Slower-moving water also carries less sediment downstream, improving overall water quality and creating calmer areas where fish, amphibians, and aquatic insects can thrive.
Phase Three: Doubling Down on Plantings
Early 2026 marked the third phase of restoration, with Preservation Trust staff and the Conservation District’s Islands Conservation Corps planting an additional 1,000 native trees and shrubs along the creek.
As these plantings mature, their roots will further stabilize the stream banks and filter rain runoff before it enters the waterway. Over time, the plant’s growing canopy and foliage will cast shade across the creek, slowing water evaporation during the hottest months.
Together, these phased improvements are transforming JB Farm’s stretch of Crow Valley Creek into a stronger, self-sustaining freshwater system — one that stores water longer into the dry season, supports wildlife habitat, and contributes to the long-term health of Orcas Island’s aquifer and downstream marine ecosystems.
SJPT staff monitoring recent plantings | Staff archive
Your Partnership Makes This Work Possible
Restoration activities like these take many hands working over many years. But through steady, multi-year efforts, JB Farm is becoming a shining example of how, together, we can restore watershed function and protect freshwater resources for generations to come.
To the support the San Juan Preservation Trust’s stewardship activities, visit the link below.
