An important situation to keep track of.
Sediment study of the North and Middle Fork American River
Monday, May 21, 2007 - Placer County Water Agency
Auburn - A detailed sediment study of the North and Middle Fork American River watershed has been completed and was presented Thursday (May 17) to the Placer County Water Agency Board of Directors.
The study identifies areas of the watershed which, if disturbed, could lead to adverse effects on water quality, aquatic habitat and water and power infrastructure. The study recommends management practices to avoid or minimize such adverse effects.
The study is the result of a five-year collaborative effort of several agencies working together in the American River Watershed Group. Facilitated by PCWA, the study included participation by the Placer County Resource Conservation District, Sierra College. CSU Sacramento, the U.S. Forest Service and other agencies. It was funded through the state Department of Water Resources.
PCWA District 5 Director Otis Wollan noted that the water agency has spent millions of dollars over the years removing sediment that washes down rivers into its reservoirs. He termed the study as “very timely” and said it will be a valuable tool in the years to come.
Thursday’s presentation was led by geologist and PCWA consultant Marie Davis, who introduced members of the study team, including scientists Stephanie Phippen and Tom Stewart who described methods used in the project.
Davis said steps are already being taken to improve management of problem areas identified in the study.
