Download introduction - River Partners

Sacramento River Partners
PINE CREEK UNIT
California Department of Fish and Game
Project term: February 2002 – November 2004
Location: 2 miles south of Hamilton City, Glenn County, CA
River Mile: 195R to 197R, west bank of Sacramento River
Restoration area: 231-acres
Planting Pattern: Varies from grassland to dense riparian forest
Approximate number of native trees and shrubs:
Funded by: Wildlife Conservation Board
Managers: California Department of Fish and Game
Unique features: 2 miles of river side access, a variety of ecological conditions
INTRODUCTION
This is a 3-year restoration project located in the floodplain of the Sacramento River.
The project consists of 231 acres of flood-prone land along the western bank of the
Sacramento River. The project is included in the Upper Sacramento River Wildlife Area
and is managed by the Department of Fish and Game for the preservation and
restoration of riparian habitat.
HISTORY
The project area was previously managed for row crops, almonds and dried plums, prior
to acquisition. After agricultural activity ceased in 1995, willows and cottonwoods
colonized part of a 50-acre area of the unit, but large areas of the site are deprived of
native species providing minimal wildlife habitat.
ECOLOGY
This site will support mixed riparian forest, oak woodland, savanna and grassland. Due
to bordering riparian forests, it is expected that this site will provide excellent habitat for
a great diversity of wildlife. Some riparian species that may occur at this site include the
endangered valley elderberry longhorn beetle (Desmocerus californicus diamorphus),
great blue heron (Ardea herodias), great egret (Casmerodius albus), and bank swallow
(Riparia riparia).
EDUCATION/COMMUNITY OUTREACH
This restoration project will provide numerous opportunities to build and strengthen
cooperative relationships with agency partners, county government, farmers and the
local community. A State Wildlife Area where public access is allowed from the river.
Bird watching and other passive recreational uses will increase as this site is
transformed from weedy field to valuable riparian habitat. As the habitat improves, game
and other wildlife populations will increase benefiting recreational users.
06/28/2017
mlc