Ecosystem Restoration
Over the last 150 years, more than 30 dams and water supply diversion structures were constructed along the Truckee River. In the 1950's and 60's, the bed of the Truckee River was blasted, dredged and straightened in an effort to reduce flooding upstream in the Truckee Meadows. Together, these activities wreaked havoc on the river's ecosystem, significantly reducing the native vegetation which had lined the riverbanks, lowering water levels, eliminating critical habitat, and impeding fish spawning in the river. Today, approximately 90% of the riparian forest that existed along the river at the beginning of the 20th century has been lost, along with 70% of the hundreds of species of nesting birds that were once common along the river.
Ecosystem Restoration Project Goals:
- Restore 50 miles of the Truckee River's ecosystem (Sparks to Pyramid Lake)
- Restore fisheries, including the threatened Lahontan Cutthroat Trout and endangered Cui-ui
- Enhance deer, mountain lion, duck, and song-bird habitat
- Enhance water quality
- Provide enhanced recreation opportunities, river access, and open-space
Lower Truckee River Restoration Sites