McAleer Creek Forest Restoration Project

King Conservation District

Lake Forest Park, Washington

Key Project Elements:

• Geologic hazard assessment

• Critical areas permitting

• Landslide mitigation

• Expedited schedule

King Conservation District selected Cross Reiter to provide geotechnical services in support of their McAleer Creek Community Forest Restoration Project in Lake Forest Park, Washington. The site consists of steep slopes overgrown with invasive species that negatively impact ecological function and slope stability.

The project includes targeted invasive species removal and replanting with native vegetation to improve habitat and ecological function. The site is encumbered by landslide hazards and a geotechnical evaluation was required to ensure the work could be completed safely. Cross Reiter characterized geologic hazards at the site and provided recommendations to complete the work without exacerbating the risk of landslides.

Cross Reiter completed a detailed desktop review, led a site reconnaissance visit to observe surface conditions, and advanced 11 shallow explorations on the site’s steeply sloping terrain to characterize soil and groundwater conditions. We completed geotechnical engineering analyses to define the nature and extent of both deep and shallow landslide risks, then provided comprehensive recommendations for design and construction to protect public safety while still meeting the project goals. Our recommendations included provisions for safe vegetation removal and replanting activities, species selection to enhance slope stability, erosion and sediment control best management practices, and regular inspections and monitoring.

The project goals were to remove invasive species and plant native vegetation on steep, landslide-prone slopes.