The Oljeto Wash Watershed Restoration Project focuses on revitalizing a historic farming area impacted by severe flooding and overgrazing. Located in a small canyon, the upper reaches of Oljeto Wash are home to farms that have existed since the early 1900s. However, erosion and stream incision now threaten the land.
After invasive plant removal, ETD created a restoration plan for the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA). This plan aims to prevent further erosion while restoring native vegetation and stabilizing the landscape. Through hydraulic analysis, ETD identified areas most vulnerable to erosion and recommended specific measures for stream and bank stabilization.
The project covered over 57 acres of land where invasive weeds like Russian olive and tamarisk were recently removed. Noxious weed control is critical to minimizing soil displacement and ensuring the reestablishment of native vegetation. These native plants not only stabilize the soil but also hold cultural significance for the local community.
ETD and Ecosphere Environmental Services collaborated to ensure that the restoration process also takes into account irrigation and water rights issues, protecting adjacent agricultural lands. The project focused on 1,410 feet of stream channel deemed high-risk for erosion, and the plan includes long-term weed control and streambank stabilization measures.
The Oljeto Wash project serves as a cooperative effort between the Navajo Nation, the Navajo Soil and Water Conservation District, and local ranchers and farmers. Its success is crucial to preserving the watershed’s agricultural viability for future generations.
Watch The Full Video Here: Clip 2:
Learn more about ETD’s Natural Resource Planning Services!