The TRRP is considering another alternative to meet its project objectives for the Indian Creek area of the river and is seeking public comment on the new approach. The proposed change is intended to make better use of on-site materials while restoring more of the natural floodplain.

The purpose and need of the project remains unchanged — to increase juvenile salmonid rearing habitat and reduce Trinity River flow impacts to structural improvements.

The new alternative provides opportunities to maximize side channel habitat. It also provides opportunities to minimize impacts by decreasing in-channel construction, reducing the overall quantity and area of excavation, and by reclaiming onsite materials for use as spawning gravel at future project sites. No in-channel excavation is considered under this alternative.

The new alternative would utilize on-site processing of excavated alluvial materials (sand, gravel, cobbles) and dredge tailings as a source for spawning gravel enhancement efforts upriver. Such re-use would reduce potential environmental impacts from placing excavated material within the project boundary. It would also restore additional floodplain areas by removing dredge tailings. Export of processed gravels from the project site would, however, require seasonal increase in truck traffic on state and local haul routes.

The supplemental Environmental Assessment delineating this proposed alternative is available for review in Weaverville at the County Library, 211 North Main St.; the TRRP office, 1313 South Main St.; and Trinity County Planning Department, 60 Glen Road. Comments are due by February 13, 2007 to Brandt Gutermuth, TRRP, Box 1300, Weaverville, CA; 96093.

The Indian Creek stretch of the river has large deposits of sand, gravel and cobble along its edges. Accumulations of alluvial material resulted from reduced water flows following construction of Trinity Dam and diversion system. Some of the largest deposits here are dredge tailings, huge mounds of gravel and stones left from mining activities. In order to rehabilitate the river corridor, this material needs to be relocated. Much can become salmonid spawning gravel.