Greek Creek

Aerial view of severe streambank erosion at the Greek Creek Campground along the Gallatin River.
Status
Construction Underway
Location
Greek Creek Campground, Custer-Gallatin National Forest
Estimated Cost
$350,000
Background
The Gallatin River is being pressured from all directions, from climate change, to urban development, and the recreational access the river is famous for. The Task Force, in partnership with the Custer-Gallatin National Forest, have developed a holistic approach to recreation management and a framework for prioritizing the ecological restoration of highly damaged areas. We have an ambitious plan to restore the entire 39 miles of the Upper Gallatin River corridor with the goal of repairing existing natural resource degradation and preventing further damage from occurring to safeguard the Gallatin River, while ensuring that outdoor recreation can continue to be a staple of Southwest Montana’s vibrant economy and way of life. Check out the Moose Creek and Upper Deer Creek projects to learn more about our work to chart the course for sustainable recreation access and restore the ecological health of the Gallatin River.
Project Description
The Greek Creek Campground is a popular campground located directly adjacent to the Gallatin River. Severe flooding that occurred during spring runoff in 2022 accelerated streambank erosion that was already occurring. The Greek Creek project will include the following restoration improvements and benefits:
Bioengineered Streambank & Riparian Plantings
Installation of a bioengineered streambank and riparian plantings will reduce sediment and improve water quality, improve fish and wildlife habitat, reduce water temperature through shading, and improve soil quality. Read more about the willow harvesting process.
Beaver Dam Analogs (BDAs)
Installation of BDAs will slow water flow during spring runoff and flood events, trap and convert nutrients and other pollutants, and increase the amount of habitat variety and water surface area, leading to more biological diversity.
Hardened River Access
Installation of a rock terrace will provide designated sustainable river access.
Raised Outhouse
Installation of a new vault toilet and site grading will occur to ensure proper drainage.
Post Assistant Log Structures (PALS)
Installation of PALS will promote the accumulation of wood, which is a natural process that’s critical to the health of rivers. PALs create upstream ponds, force flow to split, create eddies, alter erosion and deposition patterns, increase channel-floodplain connectivity, improve ecosystem function, and increase biodiversity.

Overview of Greek Creek Restoration Project Designs.
Project Status
Bioengineered streambank, installation of BDAs and PALS, hardened river access, and raised outhouse, are planned for October 2024. Riparian planting is planned for Spring 2025.

On-the-ground view of streambank erosion and location where the bioengineered streambank will be installed.