The Willow Creek Reservoir Water Quality Research and Evaluation Studies, offered by the Engineer Research and Development Center, supports research to improve water quality conditions in Willow Creek Reservoir for the benefit of the community of Heppner, Oregon, and the surrounding area.

Overview

The reservoir currently faces significant water quality challenges, including dense cyanobacteria blooms, low dissolved oxygen concentrations, and high nutrient concentrations. These conditions threaten the aquatic ecosystem, pose health risks to humans and animals, and lead to annual health advisories, fish kills, and reduced tourism and recreation. The project aims to advance scientific understanding of reservoir ecology through research and data collection, supporting the development of a comprehensive restoration plan. Research results are intended to provide public benefit through enhanced water quality, improved recreation opportunities, and natural resource benefits.

Research Areas and Activities

The project is organized around four research pillars:

• Empirical Data Acquisition and Limnological Analysis: Systematic environmental monitoring and experimental observation, including monthly collection of water samples and in-situ physicochemical measurements. Site visits are designed to manage the reservoir aeration unit as a controlled experimental variable to study the suppression of thermal stratification and its impact on water quality.
• Hydrodynamic Modeling and Predictive Analysis: Development of a comprehensive whole-lake hydrodynamic model to synthesize environmental data, simulate scenarios, and forecast the reservoir’s future water quality trajectory. The model is intended to serve as a transferable scientific tool.
• Mitigation Strategy Evaluation: Evaluation of current systems, including the installed aeration system and water quality outlet operations, to identify cost-effective and ecologically sound strategies for restoring the reservoir’s health.
• Knowledge Dissemination: Dissemination of research results through public and technical forums. The partner will provide monthly trip reports and a comprehensive annual report integrating current findings with historical data, made available to local stakeholders and the public.

Eligibility

Eligible applicants include non-federal partners of the Pacific Northwest Cooperative Ecosystems Studies Unit (CESU). The opportunity is restricted to these partners.

Funding and Benefits

The funding instrument type is a cooperative agreement. The award maximum is $100,000. Cost sharing or matching is not required. The category of funding activity is science technology and other research and development.

Deadline and Timeline

Closing: July 9, 2026

Funding Opportunity Number: W81EWF-26-SOI-0003

Contact Information

Grantor: Stacy Thurman

Email: Stacy.D.Thurman@usace.army.mil