Sediment Load Reduction Project

This project upgraded 1 mile of dirt road in need of repair on McIsaac and Zanardi Ranches in the Golden Gate Recreational Area. Storm-proofing road treatments were applied in order to improve drainage, road safety, hill-slope stability, and reduce fine sediment inputs into Lagunitas Creek.

In addition, SPAWN focused floodplain restoration at Black Mountain Ranch at the former Redi-Mix Concrete Plant. 1-acre of the cement plant staging area was removed (500 cu. yds), expanding the floodplain riparian corridor along 350 linear feet of Lagunitas Creek. This increases ecological beneficial area and provide space for interpretive signage and educational activities.

Background

This project targets priority sections of dirt road that need repair within the hills of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA) and floodplain restoration along a riparian area on Lagunitas Creek. Impaired surfaces can contribute towards sediment runoff while impervious surfaces along the floodplain can limit groundwater filtration and recharge. These two restoration goals will improve water quality and aid in juvenile salmon survival within Lagunitas Creek.

On GGNRA land, approximately 1 mile of dirt road was repaired and upgraded on McIsaac and Zanardi Ranches. Road repair was achieved through the implementation of upland storm-proofing road treatments; including rolling dips, out-sloping, rock surfacing, road rerouting, and road decommissioning. Stream crossings were also improved and protected with exclusion fencing.

SPAWN focused on floodplain restoration at Black Mountain Ranch at the former Redi-Mix Concrete Plant, following Phase 1 restoration completed in 2016. Approximately 1-acre of the cement plant staging area was removed (500 cu. yds), expanding the floodplain riparian corridor along 350 linear feet of Lagunitas Creek. This increased the areas ecological function and provide space for educational activities.

Restoring Ranch Roads Impact

Redi-Mix Floodplain Restoration

Project Timeline

Restoration activities for this project occurred from August 2024 through February 2025. A huge thank you to the public and students for getting involved and volunteering!

Project Updates