A large component of SYRCL’s restoration work takes place in the upper reaches of our watershed. Through a variety of hands-on restoration projects, we are improving habitats within the headwaters of the Yuba River Watershed. Beneficial ecosystem services provided by these projects enhance our entire watershed.
Mountain meadows are wetland areas of extremely high value for natural water storage, water quality and wildlife habitat. Due to intensive grazing practices, fire suppression and hydrologic modifications, a majority of meadows throughout the Sierra Nevada are in some state of degradation. Restoring meadows is necessary from the standpoint of conserving and protecting the state’s water resources and as important habitat for sensitive native species.
Sierra aspen are hot spots for biodiversity, provide critical habitat for native birds and are known for their beautiful fall color and the fluttering of their leaves on warm summer days. SYRCL has completed several aspen regeneration projects and continues this work in the many meadows of the Yuba watershed.
The spread of invasive plants within the Yuba watershed causes ecologic, economic, and human harm. Originally established as ornamentals for the home and garden, or having a utilitarian purpose like erosion control, invasive plants have found a niche in California’s comfortable Mediterranean climate. These plants are often prolific seed producers, ingenious survival strategists and deceivingly dangerous to our native ecosystems. SYRCL has partnered with the Tahoe National Forest to remove select species of California’s most wanted invasive plants to maintain the integrity of our watershed.
Questions? Contact:
Alecia Weisman
River Science Program Manager
(530) 265-5961 ext. 224
alecia@yubariver.org