Putah Creek Restoration Project
A major restoration project will begin September 2018 on Putah Creek in Winters, to connect prior phases of the project through the south bank terrace (old sewer pond site), restore the river’s natural function, on a smaller scale, taking into account the current water flows and land use. The project will create a new narrower flow channel, lower the floodplains, increase flow
velocity, and restore the connection of the creek to its floodplains. It will also greatly enhance public access including an earthen ramp to the north bank trail where it drops down closest to the water. Native vegetation will thrive, supporting a greater diversity and abundance of wildlife, and the creek and its banks will diversify the opportunities to enjoy nature in a publically accessible area. Prior phases of the project have already brought salmon to spawn in the park for the first time in living memory.
The new channel will be about 30 feet wide, with alternating pools, riffles, and runs, and it will meander through the park. Invasive species including eucalyptus, Himalayan blackberry, arundo, and tamarisk will be removed and native species will be planted in their place.The project will link existing floodplain trails through the middle of the park and extend these trails on the south bank to 505.
When: Project is scheduled to begin September 4 through Mid‐December (weather permitting). Plantings may continue as needed in subsequent years.
Where: Area just east of wastewater plant heading east to Hwy 505
Project Coordinator: Rich Marovich, Streamkeeper‐ Solano County Water Agency
City Contact: Carol Scianna, Public Works 530‐794‐6715 carol.scianna@cityofwinters.org
Funding Provided by: California Natural Resource Agency “River Parkway Program” with parks and water bonds via Prop. 50 and 84, and the North American Wetland Conservation Act (NAWCA)
Permits Acquired: Army Corps: 404 and 408, DFW 1600 permit, Flood Board Encroachment Permit, CVRWQCB: 401 permit, SWPPP. The work is also supported by a biological assessment, cultural resources assessment and CEQA Mitigated Negative Declaration.
Possible Adverse Activity: Dust, noise, removal of vegetation, occasional access limitations
During construction, area near the creek channel and floodplains will be off limits to the community in the construction zone. Thank you for your cooperation and patience during the
completion of this project.