This is a case study of a failing stream restoration project. As the field of ecological restoration continues to evolve, this case study serves to reinforce the impacts that both the physical and political processes can have upon "good intentions" of stream restoration. The methods utilized a two-pronged approach to investigate both the scientific and political management of the stream restoration project. Data collection focused initially upon evaluation of stream quality in an attempt to characterize existing physical conditions. Once this was established, the focus shifted toward "piecing together" land use management decisions affecting the stream from a historical and contemporary perspective. This was accomplished through a combination of methods including "key respondent" interviewing. The study concludes that greater watershed influences (hydrology changes, fine sediment input and loss of riparian vegetation) in combination with political management (decision-making processes and public bureaucratic culture) contributed to the project's failure. In order for stream restoration projects to succeed, adherence to the "Essential Steps for Rehabilitation Success" (Horner, 1998) must be pursued in conjunction with the acknowledgement of the political environment in which such projects occur.