East Branch North Fork Big River Coho Habitat Enhancement Project - Large Wood (Phase II)

The California Conservation Corps (CCC) installed a total of 55 instream features within 4,995-feet (0.95 miles) of the East Branch North Fork Big River, consisting of 173 pieces of large wood During construction, project feature designs were modified with approval from the CDFW Grant Manager. One feature, #3.1 at 0350 ft., was added to the project to utilize a cut log that was not otherwise utilized in the design plans; this log was anchored to an existing piece of instream large wood at the site.

FY16 funds spent within award window.

This project will improve habitat conditions for adult and juvenile salmonids by increasing pool depths, pool frequency, and complex shelter. The wood structures will sort gravels for spawning, promote sinuosity, and provide velocity refugia. Additional benefits include improved geomorphic function and habitat diversity through developing floodplain and side channel connectivity. Small wood and sediment retention will promote aquatic insect production, a food source for salmonids.