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Projects
Southern Napa River Watershed Project
| What: |
Conduct the third and final phase of a watershed study covering the entire Napa River basin. The goal of this study was to assess the quantity and quality of available aquatic habitat, specifically relating to salmonid life history requirements, and identify key areas for restoration, improvement, or preservation. RCD staff surveyed habitat conditions in all streams of the Napa River watershed where landowner access was obtained. We also measured gravel permeability, monitored water temperature, water quality, and stream flow, as well as described fish population distributions. |
| Where: |
The southern portion of the Napa River watershed including Browns Valley, Huichica, Milliken, Murphy, Napa, Pickle, Redwood, Salvador, Sarco, Spencer, Suscol, and Tulucay Creeks. The previous two phases covered the mainstem and all tributaries between Kimball Creek and Soda Creek. |
| Why: |
Scientists focus on salmon and steelhead because they are excellent indicators of water quality and overall watershed health. Their presence in a given stream indicates that high quality habitat is available. Conversely, their absence in habitats where they flourished historically suggests that degradation has occurred. Salmonids also have economic importance, not just in the United States, but to the entire world. It is estimated that commercial harvests and sport fishing generate over a billion dollars annually to the Pacific Northwest alone |
| Partners: |
California Department of Fish and Game |
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