RFP #2026-002 - South Fork Ditch Creek Fish Passage Project

Brief

Project Description: Trout Unlimited (TU) is seeking an experienced, qualified consultant to develop alternatives, environmental compliance documents, permits, final designs, and construction support services for a fish passage restoration project on the South Fork of Ditch Creek. Two existing corrugated metal culverts currently impede aquatic organism passage and restrict access to approximately 3.25 miles of upstream habitat used by Snake River cutthroat trout and other native aquatic species.

The purpose of this project is to remove or replace the existing crossing with a stream simulation crossing or other suitable structure that provides aquatic organism passage under all flow conditions while improving roadway safety, drainage, channel stability, and long-term infrastructure resilience. Existing outlet conditions include perched culverts, outlet drops, scour, disrupted sediment transport, and channel disconnection.

The roadway segment also contains a low area with drainage deficiencies and steep roadway shoulders that present safety concerns for motorists. The project is a partnership effort including Trout Unlimited, the Bridger-Teton National Forest, and other partners. Design Goals and Objectives: Goal: Restore aquatic organism passage to approximately 3.25 miles of upstream habitat while improving roadway safety, drainage, long-term access, and infrastructure resilience.

Objectives: Increase movement of Snake River cutthroat trout and other native fish upstream past the project location. Configure infrastructure to provide aquatic organism passage at all flows. Improve sediment transport and channel stability through the project area. Improve roadway drainage and stormwater conveyance. Address roadway safety concerns associated with the low roadway section and steep roadway shoulders. Improve flood resiliency and reduce long-term maintenance requirements.