Dams, diversions and other human uses such as grazing and logging have significantly altered the character of most California rivers --- radically changing flow patterns, channel topography, vegetation and habitat for aquatic species. In support of efforts to preserve water quality and riparian habitat, scientists from a variety of disciplines are applying their expertise to advance the fundamental science, tools and techniques of watershed restoration.
| Project | ||
|---|---|---|
|
Little Shasta River | The Little Shasta River project is the third phase of CWS’ research in the Shasta basin – moving past baseline assessment and demonstration projects to private landowner collaboration. The Center for Watershed Sciences is partnering with private landowners, California Trout, and The Nature Conservancy to identify how heritage rangeland can be managed to ensure the long-term viability of both rangeland and recover coho salmon populations. Our research shows how science can inform and influence the management of rangeland and environmental resources. |
|
Scott River | The Scott River includes California's largest wild population of coho salmon (Onchorhynchus kisutch); a species listed as threatened under both state and federal Endangered Species Acts. The Center for Watershed Sciences is partnered with California Trout and Western Rivers Conservancy to improve conservation strategies within the Scott River and its coldwater tributaries while maintaining agricultural land-use activities for private property-owners in the region. Monitoring throughout this watershed is focused on determining whether current conditions meet desirable streamflow and water temperature criteria for the success of the species and whether ongoing conservation activities have any positive effect on these conditions. |
|
Conservation of inland fish biodiversity | Knowledge of species' spatial distributions is crucial to the identification and prioritization of watersheds in need of restoration. Coupled with species' status, the presence and or absence of species can indicate biologically diverse vs. depauperate areas. |
|
Evaluation of Bear Creek Meadow Restoration Project | This project evaluated the restoration of Bear Creek, immediately upstream of the Fall River, in Modoc County, California. Approximately two miles of degraded meadow creek was restored five years ago by a private landowner. |
|
Headwaters restoration for drought resiliency |
