Pacific Southwest Research Station

Stream Restoration

Stream restoration projects are being planned and implemented to restore geomorphic and ecological functions including retention of fine sediments and providing habitat for plants and animals. These restoration efforts are underway in the watersheds of the Upper Truckee River, Blackwood Creek, Ward Creek, Trout Creek, and other streams around the basin. Research projects are synthesizing the results from past stream restoration projects as well as conducting in-depth field, modeling and laboratory studies to improve understanding of how stream channels erode and sediments deposit in floodplains. The findings will help design projects that more effectively reduce pollution and enhance habitat.

Current Research Projects

Measuring the ability of floodplains to treat urban runoff in the Lake Tahoe basin

Quantification and characterization of Trout Creek restoration effectiveness

Tools to evaluate and track benefits of stream restoration

Potential of flood plains to retain fine sediments

Stream corridor modeling tools

Reductions in sediment loads due to stream restoration

Analysis of particle size data