Restoration Projects in the Yuba Watershed

Aspen stands in the Sierra Nevada are in decline. After a century of fire suppression and grazing pressure, high elevation aspen populations are seriously threatened by conifer encroachment. Restoring aspen stands is a critical strategy of the US Forest Service (USFS) Pacific Southwest Region. Without treatment, these iconic high elevation aspen systems will continue to be replaced by conifer forests resulting in a loss of critical habitat for a diversity of wildlife, plants, and rare species.

Aspen stands in the Sierra Nevada are in decline. After a century of fire suppression and grazing pressure, high elevation aspen populations are seriously threatened by conifer encroachment. Restoring aspen stands is a critical strategy of the US Forest Service (USFS) Pacific Southwest Region. Without treatment, these iconic high elevation aspen systems will continue to be replaced by conifer forests resulting in a loss of critical habitat for a diversity of wildlife, plants, and rare species.

The Hammon Bar Riparian Enhancement Project is designed to test the methods and resulting habitat benefits of planting large cuttings of cottonwood and willow trees. Expected outcomes include increased riparian canopy on the floodplain, increased deposition of fine sediment and organic material, hydraulic cover and rearing habitat for juvenile salmonids, and increased local production of large woody material .

Since 2007, SYRCL has conducted invasive weed removal at Kentucky Ravine. Currently, SYRCL has partnered with the South Yuba River State Park to remove Himalyan blackberry and Vinca vine at a 2.5 acres of migrating song bird habitat along the creek. Himalayan blackberry and vinca vine are two noxious weeds that choke out native vegetation. Dense thickets block access of larger wildlife to water and other resources, as well as cause problems for people trying to enjoy parks and natural areas. Volunteers are trained in safety before work begins.