Branciforte Creek Fish Passage Barrier Removal Project
Client
Private Client
Project Categories
Tags
destructionDam RemovalSalmonid RestorationFloodplain RestorationFish Passage DesignHydology/HydraulicsFluvial GeomorphologyRestoring Access to Critical Spawning Habitat
Branciforte Creek, a coastal stream in Santa Cruz County, provides vital habitat for coho salmon and steelhead trout—species that have experienced significant population declines. Unfortunately, small dams, concrete drop structures, and other in-stream barriers have historically blocked fish from reaching their upstream spawning and rearing grounds, limiting their recovery potential.
Collaborative Design and Restoration
In partnership with the Resource Conservation District of Santa Cruz County and local landowners, FlowWest assessed three high-priority reaches of Branciforte Creek impacted by barriers. We developed removal and restoration designs that improved fish passage while stabilizing the streambanks and enhancing habitat conditions. Construction was completed in the summer of 2021, removing two small dams and an additional barrier. Restoration efforts also included the installation of engineered log structures to create deeper pools for fish and redirect flows away from eroding banks.
A Clear Path Forward for Native Fish
The removal of these barriers has reopened valuable habitat in the Branciforte Creek watershed, allowing native salmon and steelhead to access critical upstream areas for the first time in decades. These permanent improvements mark a major step forward in regional fish recovery efforts and demonstrate the power of public-private collaboration in restoring California’s coastal streams.
