One of SPAWN’s most ambitious restoration projects, to ensure coho salmon remain part of our ecosystem for generations to come, is making great progress. Working with the Point Reyes National Seashore, we are returning the old towns of Tocaloma and Jewel, just west of Samuel P. Taylor State Park, back to their natural and wild state.
Initial studies are now complete, and engineering, deigns, and permitting are currently underway. The Lagunitas Creek Floodplain and Riparian Enhancement Project will restore a one-mile stretch of river and floodplain habitat inside the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.
“This is one of the largest projects undertaken in the watershed,” said SPAWN Director of Watershed Conservation Preston Brown, “Our goal of restoring the natural functions of the creek will not only benefit salmon, but the entire ecosystem that relies on these waterways.”
Restorations are set to begin in the summer of 2018. They will provide immediate habitat and vital services, such as improved water quality, flood control, and protections for endangered wildlife. Creation of these habitats is being coordinated with the removal of concrete retaining walls, imported fill, bridge bulkheads, and septic tanks.
“We are looking forward to implementing the project in the summer of 2018,” Preston said. SPAWN is looking for volunteers to help us collect seeds and raise plants for the restoration work. For information on how to volunteer email Preston at Preston@tirn.net.
