Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) Plan

The City of Salem follows a plan called the Total Maximum Daily Load, or TMDL Plan. This plan is regulated by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality. It helps the city manage warm summer temperatures in local streams. A water body receives a TMDL when it has too much pollution for the water to be safe for people and wildlife. In the summer, local streams often get too warm because of more sunlight hitting the water. This happens when trees are cut down, which reduces shade, and when warm water flows into the streams, creeks, and rivers.

Why This Matters

Keeping stream temperatures cool is important for the health of aquatic life. Fish, especially salmon, and small water bugs like dragonfly and mayfly larvae can be sensitive to warm water. High temperatures can harm these animals by affecting their ability to spawn, grow, and migrate. By managing stream temperatures, the City of Salem aims to protect these important species and their habitats.

Study Finds Low Tree Canopy on Salem Streams

Salem has about 90 miles of streams running through it, most of which are next to private properties. In 2009, the city conducted its first survey to check how much shade trees provide to the streams. This survey was updated in 2018 using new images. The study looked at the tree canopy and shade within 30 feet of the streams, divided into 10-foot sections. Here are the findings:

• High Shade: 54 percent of the stream areas had over 75 percent shade.

• Mid-Level Shade: 28 percent of the stream areas had shade between 25 percent and 75 percent.

• Low Shade: 18 percent of the stream areas had less than 25 percent shade.

The next study on tree canopy and shade will take place in 2029 and will include information from the 2021 ice storm.

The Role of Streamside Property Owners

People who own property next to streams play an important role in keeping the streams healthy. Increasing shade is one of the goals the City of Salem has to improve stream health. This page offers information on rules to protect streams and resources for property owners.

City Regulations

You can find information about City of Salem regulations and guidelines regarding streamside areas, native plants, and more:

• Know the Ordinance that Protect Trees and Native Vegetation

• Request Help Identifying Plants (opens in email)

• View the TMDL Plan and Annual Reports

Resources for Streamside Homeowners

If you live next to a stream, there are several resources to help you keep the streams healthy:

Free Tree Program

Streamside residents can participate in our Free Tree Program, which happens each fall. If you would like to be added to our contact list, please email us at stormwateroutreach@cityofsalem.net. You will need to provide your streamside Salem address and be verified as a streamside resident. 

Streamside Site Visits

The City has an Urban Streamside Program Coordinator who works with property owners. To set up an appointment, email our Coordinator at LWestphal@cityofsalem.net.

Watershed Protection and Preservation Grant

Do you have an idea for a project that will improve your stream or neighborhood? The Watershed Protection and Preservation Grant is available for businesses, schools, nonprofits, government agencies, and individuals. Learn more or apply for the grant through the City of Salem's website.

Benefits of Riparian Areas

Riparian areas provide many benefits for streams and aquatic life. They offer habitat, shade, and help control erosion. Learn more about the community benefits of riparian areas.

Get Involved

Looking for ways you can volunteer or get involved in protecting Salem streams?

• Volunteer to Plant Trees

• Volunteer to Mark Storm Drains

• Learn More about the Clean Streams Initiative