Sediment Solutions for the Gualala
Gualala River Watershed Council, Sonoma County & Mendocino County
Project Abstract
Sediment Solutions for the Gualala is the first phase of a program to reduce non-point sediment within the Gualala River Watershed, specifically within the Fuller Creek watershed of the Gualala River. Work will focus on reducing erosion from existing road networks through drainage improvements, removal of at-risk sidecast fill slopes, removal and repair of at-risk stream crossings, and treatment of erosion sites.
Project Goals
- Reduction of non-point sediment sources consistent with Gualala TMDL, TSD to improve water quality and in-stream habitat for anadromous salmonids in a high-risk steelhead refugia watershed and a high-risk Coho refugia sub-basin in the Gualala River. This project will achieve the GRWC goal of completing non-point sediment source reduction on a sub-watershed level within the Gualala basin.
- Quantifying the effectiveness of restoration strategies. This can be as important as the implementation of restoration projects. Implementation effectiveness will be monitored using a quantitative methodology approved by the NCRWQCB and Cal EPA (GRWC QAPP). All data will be included in the GRWC watershed effectiveness-monitoring database. Systematic documentation, GIS mapping of erosion sites and treatments will be conducted, data will be included in the GRWC watershed restoration site database.
- Assess and monitor watershed-scale trends: The GRWC Cooperative Monitoring Program for in-stream aquatic habitat conditions will continue to monitor watershed-scale trends, building on an 8 year monitoring record within the Gualala watershed that provides the community-at-large with research level data. The NCRWQCB and Cal EPA approved the GRWC monitoring protocols (QAPP). The protocols are designed to collect both baseline and trend data for a number of physical factors known to limit salmonid distribution, abundance and survival, including but not limited to: temperature, riparian surveys, stream profile (thalweg, cross-section and sedimentation characteristics), water quality and large woody debris surveys. The analysis of the data collected is used to focus watershed improvement programs, and assist landowners, residents and local groups in the development of restoration projects.
- Expand Stakeholder and community education and collaborative partnerships with stakeholders in the watershed. The GRWC Education and Outreach Program focuses on expanding the awareness of water quality issues and promoting the adoption of Best Management Practices for erosion control and monitoring within the 300 sq. mile watershed.
Budget
IRWMP Proposition 50: $159,052
Funding Match: $0
Total Project Cost: $159,052
Other Project Information:
On-line Project Management Tool
Awarded Prime Construction Contractor and Initiation of Construction
Sediment Solutions for the Gualala Project Photos