Historical Distribution and Current Status of Steelhead/Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)

in Streams of the San Francisco Estuary, California

Robert A. Leidy, Environmental Protection Agency, San Francisco, CA

Gordon S. Becker, Center for Ecosystem Management and Restoration, Oakland, CA

Brett N. Harvey, John Muir Institute of the Environment, University of California, Davis, CA

This report should be cited as: 

Leidy, R.A., G.S. Becker, B.N. Harvey. 2005. Historical distribution and current status of steelhead/rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus 

mykiss) in streams of the San Francisco Estuary, California. Center for Ecosystem Management and Restoration, Oakland, CA.

Center for Ecosystem Management and Restoration

Forward p. 3

Introduction p. 5

Methods p. 7

Determining Historical Distribution and Current Status; 

Information Presented in the Report; Table Headings and 

Terms Defined; Mapping Methods

p. 13

Marsh Creek Watershed; Mt. Diablo Creek Watershed; Walnut 

Creek Watershed; Rodeo Creek Watershed; Refugio Creek 

Watershed; Pinole Creek Watershed; Garrity Creek Watershed; 

San Pablo Creek Watershed; Wildcat Creek Watershed; Cerrito 

Creek Watershed

Contra Costa County Maps: Historical Status, Current Status

p. 45

Codornices Creek Watershed; Strawberry Creek Watershed; 

Temescal Creek Watershed; Glen Echo Creek Watershed; Sausal 

Creek Watershed; Peralta Creek Watershed; Lion Creek Watershed; 

Arroyo Viejo Watershed; San Leandro Creek Watershed; 

San Lorenzo Creek Watershed; Alameda Creek Watershed; Laguna 

Creek (Arroyo de la Laguna) Watershed 

Alameda County Maps: Historical Status, Current Status

p. 97

Coyote Creek Watershed; Guadalupe River Watershed; 

San Tomas Aquino Creek/Saratoga Creek Watershed; Calabazas 

Creek Watershed; Stevens Creek Watershed; Permanente Creek 

Watershed; Adobe Creek Watershed; Matadero Creek/Barron 

Creek Watershed

Santa Clara County Maps: Historical Status, Current Status

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Santa Clara County

Alameda County

Contra Costa County

p. 39

p. 91

p. 135
San Francisquito Creek Watershed; Redwood Creek Watershed; 

Cordilleras Creek Watershed; Belmont Creek Watershed; Laurel 

Creek Watershed; San Mateo Creek Watershed; Sanchez Creek 

Watershed; Easton Creek Watershed; Mills Creek Drainage; Colma 

Creek Watershed

San Mateo County Maps: Historical Status, Current Status

p. 161

Coyote Creek Watershed; Arroyo Corte Madera Del Presidio 

Watershed; Corte Madera Creek Watershed; Miller Creek 

Watershed; Pacheco Creek Watershed; Arroyo San Jose Watershed; 

Novato Creek Watershed

Marin County Maps: Historical Status, Current Status

p. 183

Petaluma River Watershed; Sonoma Creek Watershed; Schell 

Creek Watershed

Sonoma County Maps: Historical Status, Current Status

p. 213

Huichica Creek Watershed; Napa River Watershed; 

Fagan Creek Watershed; American Canyon Creek Watershed

Napa County Maps: Historical Status, Current Status

p. 257

Unnamed Creek to Cordelia Slough Watershed; Green Valley Creek 

Watershed; Suisun Creek Watershed

Solano County Maps: Historical Status, Current Status

p. 269

p. 273

Abbreviations & Acronyms p. 275

San Mateo and San Francisco Counties

Marin County

Sonoma County

Napa County

Solano County

Acknowledgements

Discussion

p. 141

p. 155

p. 177

p. 207

p. 251

p. 263
3

FOREWARD

The document in your hands is the work of generations. When Dr. Robert Leidy first started walking the streams of the East Bay 

to make field observations of native fishes, he was following paths walked in previous centuries by other biologists. For years Rob 

made his way along brush- and concrete- covered stream banks, pulling nets and snorkeling in pools, and acquiring the written 

reports of his predecessors. Now, with the assistance of Gordon Becker and Brett Harvey, these decades of observations have been 

synthesized and analyzed in a scientifically authoritative manner and made publicly available.

Many Bay Area residents are surprised to discover that rainbow trout still inhabit our streams, and that every year steelhead (the 

ocean-going form of rainbow trout) enter our creeks from the ocean searching for spawning habitat. While the abundance of 

steelhead has been greatly diminished by the last 50 years of urban development, there still exist Bay Area streams where these 

magnificent fish make their way upstream to spawn in clear, clean, cold water.

Most fisheries scientists believe that with modest modifications to our water supply and flood control infrastructure, and revisions 

to the operations of certain facilities, we can return steelhead to many places they used to inhabit. Spurred by this knowledge, 

and the listing of steelhead as threatened pursuant to the Endangered Species Act, citizens and governmental agencies are at work 

in locations throughout our region on plans to restore these steelhead populations. The Center for Ecosystem Management and 

Restoration is pleased to provide the scientific information in this document to assist them in these restoration efforts.

The technical and political complexity of their task should not be underestimated. The responsibility for protection and 

restoration of these steelhead populations often rests with government agencies with no official mandate to restore or protect 

natural resources. These include flood control districts, water supply agencies, and public works departments, and these 

organizations are struggling to adapt to a new political environment in which they are responsible for managing lands and water 

resources to protect endangered species. The agencies face inevitable conflicts between their traditional mandates and these new 

responsibilities, and are working with local stakeholders to address conflicts, build new partnerships, and find supplemental 

funding opportunities.

Certainly, the fish appear willing to do their part. Adult steelhead have been found in downtown Hayward, after swimming 

12 miles up a concrete flood control channel. Behind our major dams rainbow trout complete their lifecycle in human-made 

microcosms. Instead of their downstream migration leading to an oceanic journey of thousands of miles, these fish move 

downstream to reservoirs, where they live until it is time to return to the upper watershed to spawn.

If free to move downstream and back, there is every reason to assume these trout will resume the oceanic round trip of their 

ancestors, making these wild fish vital resources for restoration. In 2004 the National Marine Fisheries Service proposed that the 

rainbow trout in the Alameda Creek watershed be included in the officially threatened population, the first designation ever for a 

population located behind a dam. The report you hold provides for the first time an accessible and credible presentation of where 

these fish still survive, thanks in part to the maps prepared by the Center’s cartographer David Asbury.

Restoration of steelhead in Bay Area watersheds is only just beginning, and their complex life cycle will test our capabilities. To be 

successful we must integrate management across political boundaries that make no ecological sense, encouraging diverse public 

and private entities to work together. 
4

As with most challenging endeavors, there is much to be gained. The physical beauty and ecological integrity of San Francisco 

Bay and its watersheds are keys to our region’s economic prosperity and quality of life. As Will Travis, Executive Director of the 

Bay Conservation and Development Commission, has noted “As the world’s places deteriorate in quality, those that have been 

protected and enhanced will become even more precious. That is why enhancing the Bay Area’s environment is such an important 

economic investment.”

The return of one of nature’s great spectacles to our counties will enrich the lives of Bay Area residents in non-monetary ways as 

well. The migratory journey of steelhead from stream to ocean and their indomitable return to their natal habitats have touched 

the human spirit for generations. Wallace Stegner argued that “something goes out of us as a people” when we drive species to 

extinction, and there can be no doubt that the restoration of wild creatures in our communities will return something to us and 

our children.

Critical policy decisions are presently being made that will shape the regional landscape for decades to come. Rob and his coauthors have shown that we have the opportunity to choose a path that includes the preservation and restoration of timeless and 

unique environmental resources for present and future Bay Area residents. 

Andrew Gunther, Ph.D.

Executive Director

Center for Ecosystem Management and Restoration

Oakland, CA
5

INTRODUCTION

Five species of Pacific salmon (genus Oncorhynchus) are known from watersheds tributary to the San Francisco Estuary (Estuary), 

exclusive of the Sacramento and San Joaquin rivers and their tributaries that drain the Central Valley of California (Leidy 2004). 

Salmon species either historically or recently recorded from Estuary streams include coho salmon (O. kisutch), chinook salmon (O. 

tshawytscha), chum salmon (O. keta), pink salmon (O. gorbuscha), and the non-anadromous and anadromous life-history forms 

of rainbow trout (O. mykiss). Recent status reviews indicate that natural populations of coho and chinook salmon and steelhead 

within coastal California have declined dramatically over the last 50 years, and populations apparently are continuing to decline 

in other regions (Brown et al. 1994; CDFG 2002; Myers et al. 1998; NMFS 1996, 1999, 2001). Status reviews have assisted the 

National Marine Fisheries Service in the identification of over 50 listed Evolutionary Significant Units (ESUs) for West Coast 

salmon and steelhead, including three ESUs that encompass the San Francisco Estuary1

. 

The focus of this report is on the status of rainbow trout. However, information regarding coho salmon in Estuary streams was 

collected as part of the study that produced this report. Readers interested in the distribution of coho salmon are referred to 

the following: Leidy. R.A., G. Becker, and B.N. Harvey. In press. Historical status of coho salmon in streams of the urbanized San 

Francisco Estuary, California. California Fish and Game. Similarly, we researched the distribution of Chinook salmon in Estuary 

streams. The historical distribution and current status of chinook salmon in the Bay Area is the subject of research by G. Becker, 

to whom inquiries should be directed. 

Anadromous rainbow trout, or steelhead, occur in California from the Smith River south along the coast to San Mateo Creek, 

San Diego County, and in streams of the San Francisco Estuary and Central Valley (Moyle 2002). Tributaries to the Estuary 

support the winter (ocean-maturing) steelhead ecotype, as well as non-anadromous, or resident, forms of rainbow trout2

. We 

found historical records for the widespread occurrence of steelhead throughout the Estuary, but there is scarce information 

regarding the number of adult spawning fish. We also were able to locate information on resident rainbow trout or “landlocked” 

steelhead upstream from natural or man-made barriers, respectively. We were unable to locate any reliable estimates of the current 

population sizes of steelhead for any Estuary watershed, although we believe populations of adult spawning fish likely range 

between a few to less than 50 fish for many watersheds. In addition, documentation for the occurrence of steelhead in some 

streams consists of the sighting of one to a few migrating adults, often in non-consecutive years. In these instances, it is not clear 

whether these fish are members of viable “populations,” particularly in the absence of other positive information on successful 

reproduction.

There is growing public interest in the conservation and restoration of anadromous salmonids in Estuary streams, especially 

steelhead (O. mykiss). Existing assessments of the historical status of anadromous salmonids in the Estuary generally have been 

cursory and incomplete. This is attributable largely to the lack of reliable qualitative information on the historical presence 

or absence of salmon in specific watersheds, as well as the absence of quantitative data on the number of spawning fish and 

population viability. In addition, the highly variable climatic conditions in watersheds surrounding the Estuary produce large 

ranges of intra- and inter-annual in-stream discharges. Estuary watersheds are characterized seasonally by intermittent stream 

flows and warm water temperatures, conditions not typical of salmonid streams of coastal northern California. This often has led 

biologists in the past to conclude that there is little or no suitable habitat present for anadromous salmonids within many Estuary 

watersheds. These factors have contributed to a perception that salmon and steelhead were never widespread or abundant, or 

where present, important members of Estuary fish assemblages. Consequently, until the mid-1980s management activities have 
6

been focused primarily on the planting of hatchery stocks of rainbow trout and steelhead into larger Estuary watersheds, or on 

the recovery of anadromous salmonids within other California watersheds, rather than the maintenance and restoration of habitat 

utilized by the remaining salmonid populations in the Estuary (Leidy 2002).

Initial steps in recovery planning efforts for threatened salmonids in the San Francisco Estuary requires an assessment of their 

historical and current status. The purpose of this paper, therefore, is to assess the historical and current status of steelhead in 

streams tributary to the San Francisco Estuary.

Introduction References

1. Brown, L. R., P. B. Moyle, and R. M. Yoshiyama. 1994. Historical decline and current status of coho salmon in 

California. North American Journal of Fisheries Management 14(2): 237-261.

2. CDFG. 2002. Status review of California coho salmon north of San Francisco Candidate Species Status Review Report 

2002-3. Report to the California Fish and Game Commission.

3. Leidy, R. A., USEPA. 2002. Unpublished stream survey data 1992-2002.

4. Leidy, R.A. 2004. Ecology, assemblage structure, distribution, and status of fishes in streams tributary to the San 

Francisco Estuary, California. PhD dissertation. University of California, Davis. 677 pp.

5. Moyle, P. B. 2002. Inland Fishes of California, updated and revised. University of California Press, Berkeley.

6. Myers, J. M. et al. 1998. Status review of chinook salmon from Washington, Idaho, Oregon, and California NOAA 

Tech. Memo. U.S. Department of Commerce, NMFS-NWFSC-35.

7. NMFS. 1996. Status Review of West Coast Steelhead from Washington, Idaho, Oregon, and California. Prepared 

by the Northwest Fisheries Science Center, Coastal Zone and Estuarine Studies Division, Seattle, Washington and 

Southwest Region, Protected Species Division, Long Beach, California, NOAA Technical Memorandum NMFSANWFSC-27.

8. NMFS. 1999. Status Review Update for Deferred ESUs of West Coast Chinook Salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha). 

Prepared by the West Coast Chinook Salmon Biological Review Team, Northwest Fisheries Science Center, Seattle, 

Washington.

9. NMFS. 2001. Status Review for Coho Salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) from the Central California Coast and the 

California portion of the Southern Oregon/Northern California Coasts Evolutionarily Significant Units. Prepared by 

the Southwest Fisheries Science Center, Santa Cruz Laboratory, CA.

Footnotes

1

 The North-central California Coast Recovery Planning Domain encompasses streams tributary to the San Francisco Estuary, 

exclusive of the Sacramento-San Joaquin rivers, which includes the Central California Coast Coho ESU (listed as threatened, 

October 1996), Central California Coast Steelhead ESU (threatened, August 1997), and California Coastal Chinook ESU 

(threatened September 1999).

2

 We follow the convention of McEwan (2001) when referring to anadromous and non-anadromous forms of rainbow trout 

(O. mykiss). We use “steelhead” and ‘”resident” when referring to anadromous and non-anadromous life history forms of 

rainbow trout, respectively. We use “rainbow trout” for populations where we are unable to determine the life history strategy. 

Individuals within populations of coastal rainbow trout exhibit varying life-history strategies and a continuum of migratory 

behaviors from anadromy (strong migratory) to residency (non-migratory).
7

METHODS

Determining Historical Distribution and Current Status

The primary goal of this study was to document the historical and current distribution and status of steelhead/rainbow trout 

(Oncorhynchus mykiss) within each watershed of the San Francisco Estuary. Sixty-eight watersheds were identified based on streams 

terminating in the tidal portion of the Estuary as shown on U.S. Geological Survey 7.5’ maps. Within each watershed an effort 

was made to identify all primary and secondary tributary streams. Watersheds and their tributaries are discussed beginning with 

Marsh Creek, in eastern Contra Costa County, and continuing in clockwise direction around the Estuary to Suisun Creek, 

Solano County.

We assessed the past and present distribution of O. mykiss using historical and recent records. We also reviewed maps depicting 

historical conditions produced by the San Francisco Estuary Institute, as well as data collected during 1993-1998 surveys by the 

senior author, and more recent surveys and observations by various federal, state, and local biologists. We assumed that historically 

streams supported O. mykiss upstream to natural impassable barriers, or to the upstream-most point containing sufficient instream 

habitat, in two instances. The first instance is when reliable historical records are available but the stream currently does not 

support O. mykiss. The second is when reliable historical records are not available, but the stream currently supports O. mykiss.

Historical Records

We collected historical records on the distribution and abundance of O. mykiss from published literature, unpublished reports 

and studies, field notes and specimens housed at museums and universities, public agency files, and through interviews with 

individuals knowledgeable of O. mykiss within particular streams or watersheds. Historical records varied widely in the type, 

quality, and reliability of information. We categorized the information sources to reflect these characteristics (see description of 

“Data Type” below). We also distinguished between qualitative historical information and historical data that addressed fisheries 

resources quantitatively through population density estimates, fish counts or other measurements. 

Fish Sampling

We conducted fish sampling between 1992-1998 as part of a more comprehensive project to determine the distribution and status 

of native stream fishes of the Estuary (Leidy 2004). The primary goal of fish sampling was to augment historical records and 

document the present distribution of native stream fishes, including O. mykiss, at a particular sampling location. Streams known 

to contain O. mykiss based on historical records were sampled, as well as additional sites representing habitats where historical 

information was incomplete.

At each location, an effort was made to sample the full range of habitat types (e.g., riffle, run, pool) within representative stream 

reaches and geomorphic settings (e.g., high-elevation, high- gradient, bedrock controlled; low-elevation, low gradient, alluvial 

unconsolidated bottom, etc.). Selection of sampling sites was stratified to maximize the diversity of habitat types in different 

geomorphic settings. Stream reaches typically were sampled above the influence of diel tidal fluctuations, but exceptions were 

made on a case-by-case basis. Selection of fish sampling techniques depended upon site-specific physical characteristics and 

conditions, and the sampling method that would most thoroughly sample a site was employed.
8

Fish sampling relied on one or more of the following techniques: electrofisher, minnow or beach seine, dip net, gill net, and 

snorkel and mask. Sampling with a Smith-Root Type XI backpack electrofisher was the technique we most often employed, 

primarily in reaches with depths of less than one meter and water velocities of less than three feet per second. Electrofishing was 

conducted in a downstream to upstream direction in a reach 30 meters in length, except where circumstances dictated other 

approaches. We sampled single or multiple pools less than 30 meters in length when the reach contained isolated pools less than 

30 meters in length that were embedded in a matrix of dry stream channel materials.

In each reach, a minimum of 30 meters typically was sampled, and the sampled reach often exceeded this distance. Reach 

lengths greater than 30 meters were sampled when either no or few fishes were collected within the first 30 meters sampled. This 

additional sampling effort was directed at ensuring correct conclusions regarding presence or absence.

We attempted to sample all habitat types within a reach with equal effort (i.e., sampling time and area sampled). However, 

habitats immediately adjacent to stream banks often received more intensive sampling because they typically provided the most 

heterogeneous habitat for fishes, as measured by instream structure and overhead riparian cover. Block nets were used at the 

upstream and downstream ends of the sampling site if physical conditions (e.g., high water velocities, poor water clarity, etc.) 

warranted their use to capture fish more effectively. We electrofished using either two- or three-person crews, with all members of 

the crew collecting stunned fish by dip net.

Fish sampling at depths greater than one meter typically was accomplished using minnow and/or beach seines or gill nets, or 

by snorkeling with a mask. Sampling effort varied between these methods although we attempted to conform to the minimum 

30 meter sampling distance. A student minnow seine was used to depths of one meter while depths of between one to two 

meters were sampled with a beach seine. Student and beach seines were constructed of 6 mm mesh and were 1.5 meters by 2 

meters and 2 meters by 4 meters in depth and width, respectively. Very shallow habitats (typically less than five cm depth) where 

electrofishing and larger nets were not effective were sampled either with small size mesh dip nets (4-6 mm mesh) or fish were 

identified visually. 

We recorded the following information at each collection site: sampling date and time; stream name(s) and narrative location; 

sampling station, numbered sequentially for all sites sampled on the same date; county name; elevation (m) from the USGS 7.5’ 

topographic maps; and, USGS quadrangle name. We measured or counted all fish captured (mm FL or TL) unless more than 

30 individuals of were caught, in which case a representative sample of 30 fish was measured. We estimated the abundance of 

young-of-the-year (YOY) and abundance (1-3 scale, 1 = less than 25 individuals, 2 = 25-50 individuals, and 3 = greater than 50 

individuals). An estimate of the number of O. mykiss per 30 meters of stream based on captured fish and visual counts was made 

at each sampling site.

Additional characteristics of the habitat that were estimated or measured included substrate composition, water depth, channel 

cross section, other fish species, air and water temperature, discharge, cover, aquatic vegetation and others. Persons interested in 

detailed information for particular sampling locations are encouraged to contact the senior author.

All fish were identified using one or more of the following references: Moyle (1976); Moyle (1976 as per 1997 key revisions), and 

Lawrence and Burr (1991). All collected fish were released. Each sampling site was photo-documented by taking a minimum of 

two photographs with a wide angle lens. One photograph was taken looking upstream and one downstream from a location at the 
9

center point of the sampling reach. Unless otherwise noted, all habitat inventory protocols in this study followed those described 

in Flosi and Reynolds (1994).

Information Presented in the Report

The body of the report conveys information we use in determining the historical distribution and current status of O. mykiss in 

San Francisco Estuary streams. Typical attributes of the information include surveying organization or individual, survey month 

and year, survey location, and survey results such as fish presence/absence and fish or population characteristics (e.g., size, density). 

Where we determine that additional information contained in surveys or other information sources is important to the analysis, 

we include it in the discussion provided in the body of the text.

Supplemental information most often includes descriptions of known migration barriers, relevant habitat descriptions, or habitat 

impairment factors. We do not restate most habitat descriptions contained in our information sources because of the changeable 

nature of the resource, and the amount of variability in the habitat assessment methods applied and the quality of the analyses. 

Rather, we note instances where reliable surveyors make statements we believe accurately characterize O. mykiss populations or 

habitat in particular watersheds. In particular, we summarize or quote statements that established the relative importance to a 

particular fishery of streams within a watershed.

A descriptive “assessment” also is provided for each watershed. Assessments are intended to distill the narrative describing a 

mainstem stream and its tributaries into a readily usable form. They summarize historical and current O. mykiss presence/absence 

determinations and factors affecting distribution and abundance over time. This study does not include a ranking of the relative 

importance of the various watersheds to the regional steelhead fishery. However, the assessment sections in some cases indicate 

where a watershed is clearly of regional significance.

Tables describing O. mykiss historical distribution and current status in San Francisco Estuary streams are presented in the report 

including key descriptors of the data used to draw these conclusions. Information on the O. mykiss status of all watersheds and 

streams is summarized by county at the end of each chapter. Table headings and terms are defined as follows.

Watershed: Name of the watershed designated by the primary stream that terminates in the tidal portion of the Estuary.

Stream/Tributary: Mainstem stream or the primary and secondary tributaries to the main watershed stream. Tributary streams 

are ordered in a downstream to upstream direction.

Years Surveyed/Quantitative Data: The first value in this column indicates the number of years that observations were made in 

a particular stream. The second value is the number of years for which quantitative data indicating presence exist. Surveys were 

said to have quantitative data when they included such measurements as fish counts, lengths and densities.

Period of Record: The time interval in years from the first record of the presence of O. mykiss to the most recent. If a more 

recent survey was conducted and did not find O. mykiss, its year is indicated in bold beneath the years of the period of record.

Data type: The value in this column is either “0,” “1,” “2,” or “3,” and corresponds to information types as described below.
10

0 Anecdotal evidence. Anecdotal evidence of the presence of O. mykiss typically consists of personal observations and verbal 

accounts. Anecdotal evidence often is indirect and in the form of “second hand” accounts passed between individuals. 

Anecdotal evidence typically is the least reliable for confirming presence/absence of O. mykiss, but may be useful in 

certain instances when combined with other more reliable information sources. 

1 Direct observational evidence. Evidence is through direct observation by individuals competent in the identification 

of O. mykiss. Direct observation often includes semi-quantitative or quantitative data collected during visual stream 

surveys. Direct observation may include presence/absence data or abundance estimates based on counts of the number 

of juvenile/adult fish per standard length of stream. Direct observation often is the most common data type cited as 

evidence of use of a stream by O. mykiss.

2 Electrofishing. Sampling involves single or multiple pass electrofishing.

3 Other. These data include evidence collected from other standard sampling methods such as seining, dip netting, creel 

census and redd counts, carcass surveys, or snorkeling.

Life History Stage/Number of Years Data. The first value in this column is the life history stage for which there are data. 

Possible values are J = juvenile (including fry), S = smolt, R = resident, non-migrating adult, and M = adult migrant. The second 

value in this column is the number of surveys conducting on a stream that produced data relating to the life history phase.

Anadromy Possible. Values indicate whether streams support anadromous O. mykiss populations. 

Y Yes. Current evidence indicates natural propagation is successfully occurring in the stream, or in upstream tributaries 

of the stream, and no complete barrier to upstream and downstream migration exists between the area of natural 

propagation and the ocean.

N No. Either a complete migration barrier exists between the ocean and any naturally propagating populations, or current 

evidence indicates O. mykiss are not present or are not naturally propagating in the stream.

UNK Unknown. The current status of passage conditions or O. mykiss populations is undetermined.

Historical, Current Status. Values indicate the probability of the existence of an historical and/or current spawning run or 

population. For purposes of this document, “historical” means before 1992, while “current” reflects status in the last ten years. 

The values are defines as follows. 

DF Definite Run or Population. Streams for which there is reliable, direct evidence for fish use, such as collections made 

during stream surveys, published literature, unpublished biological or archaeological reports and surveys, and museum 

surveys. These sources may be combined with other historical and current evidence on the existence of suitable habitat.
11

PB Probable Run or Population. Streams for which there is some reliable direct evidence for fish use, and we were able to 

determine that suitable habitat existed historically. This determination was made using information concerning stream 

habitat characteristics based on reference data, or knowledge of the current presence of suitable habitat.

PS Possible Run or Population. Streams for which there is minimal or no direct reliable evidence of fish use, but suitable 

habitat existed historically or is currently present.

NP No Population. Streams for which there is no evidence of fish use and inferences from historical and current habitat 

conditions (e.g., extreme ephemeral runoff conditions, barriers to upstream migration of fishes, lack of suitable spawning 

and/or rearing habitat, etc.) indicate the lack of suitable habitat.

UNK Unknown/Insufficient Information. Streams for which there is insufficient information on fish use and/or historical and 

current habitat conditions.

We used several sources of information to discern the status of O. mykiss in Estuary streams. Evidence of a run or the existence of 

a population did not require that fish be recorded every year. Rather, we used existing evidence, our best professional judgment, 

and the judgments of other researchers to assess the likelihood that O. mykiss either regularly or intermittently utilized a particular 

stream. Because O. mykiss within the San Francisco Estuary are adapted to highly variable climatic, rainfall, and stream discharge 

conditions, we assumed that a stream contained suitable habitat for steelhead even if fish were not recorded in successive years.

The population/run status designations assigned to Estuary streams also are indicated on plates at the end of this report. It should 

be noted that our coding system reflects the “blue line” stream location of our mapping data sources rather than the extent of 

habitat use by O. mykiss.

Current Population Status. Current status of a population in a stream is indicated by the following values: 0 = population 

absent or unknown, 1 = population present, 2 = population reproducing, as evidenced by the presence of age 0+ and 1+ juveniles, 

and 3 = multiple age classes present.

References. Values in this column correspond to bibliographic entries that present evidence or documentation of the status of O. 

mykiss in the given stream. Personal communication references are listed in parentheses.

Mapping Methods

The maps prepared for this publication were compiled with data from various sources. In order to make this dataset as widely 

accessible as possible and to permit future expandability, we choose a comprehensive, standardized data format based on the 

National Hydrography Dataset (NHD) produced by the United States Geological Survey (USGS). This dataset includes error 

and uncertainty, but is one of the most up to date and reliable sources available. We have modified the data to make them more 

accurate, as outlined below, but some uncorrected error likely remains. Please see the NHD metadata for more information 

about accuracy.1

We established individual map boundaries by grouping streams that enter the San Francisco Estuary within a particular county, 

and thus some “county” maps may include land from adjacent counties in the upper portions of the watershed. The watersheds 
12

of these streams were acquired from the CalWater 2.2 database2 and checked for consistency with USGS Hydrologic Unit Codes 

(HUC) and a 7.5’ Digital Elevation Model (DEM) from National Geographic TOPO!.

3

 ArcMap’s generalization tool, Dissolve, was 

used to create a single polygon for each “county”.

In some instances (notably eastern Contra Costa County) the CalWater boundaries were either inaccurate or insufficient for 

the purposes of our report. In these cases we modified the boundaries to reflect reliable references and professional judgment. 

For example, historical East Bay stream reaches and names were determined using maps published by the Oakland Museum of 

California4

 as well as other sources.

The NHD is a reach-based dataset, but for this report we were interested in characterizing entire streams. Therefore, we merged 

reaches on the same stream (using the generalization tool, Dissolve) on the “GNIS_Name” field. We then coded each stream 

with a status designation from the report. Where stream reaches delineated in the NHD were discontinuous, we made digital 

connections primarily based on the Oakland Museum maps and USGS topographic data. 

The maps were generated with ESRI’s ArcMap 9.0 (Build 538), using a Geographic Coordinate System based on the North 

American Datum of 1927 (NAD27). This datum was taken from the map’s base layers, which are a subset of the National 

Geographic TOPO! California State dataset. The NHD and Calwater 2.2 data were projected to this datum from their native 

format, formerly NAD83, using ArcMap’s projection algorithm. Metadata included in the geodatabase complies with Federal 

Geographic Data Committee standards.

We adopted naming conventions from the Geographic Names Information System (GNIS) except where a stream reach had not 

been listed in the database. In these instances, we substituted common names into the “GNIS_Name” field. We also accounted 

for misspellings, inaccuracies, and differences from common usage in the GNIS database in this manner. For example, “Positas, 

Arroyo Las” became “Arroyo las Positas”.

A number of geoprocessing tasks were undertaken to manipulate the various input data into useful information for the purposes 

of this report. (A full description of the mapping protocol may be obtained by contacting CEMAR or referring to the CEMAR 

website.) The final dataset consists of the consolidated stream reaches, the modified GNIS naming information, and the 

designations of historical distribution and current status of O. mykiss from the report.

References

1. See http://nhd.usgs.gov for extensive information on the National Hydrography Dataset.

2. See http://www.ca.nrcs.usda.gov/features/calwater/ for information regarding the CalWater dataset.

3. National Geographic TOPO! (2003). California Seamless USGS Topographic Maps on CD-ROM.

4. Sowers, Janet M. Creek and Watershed Map of Oakland & Berkeley (1993, revised 1995), Pleasanton & Dublin (2003), 

Hayward & San Leandro (1997), and Fremont & Vicinity (1999). Oakland Museum of California.
13

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY

Marsh Creek Watershed

Marsh Creek flows approximately 30 miles from the eastern slopes of Mt. Diablo to Suisun Bay in the northern San Francisco 

Estuary. Its watershed consists of about 100 square miles. The headwaters of Marsh Creek consist of numerous small, intermittent 

and perennial tributaries within the Black Hills. The creek drains to the northwest before abruptly turning east near Marsh Creek 

Springs. From Marsh Creek Springs, Marsh Creek flows in an easterly direction entering Marsh Creek Reservoir, constructed 

in the 1960s. The creek is largely channelized in the lower watershed, and includes a drop structure near the city of Brentwood 

that appears to be a complete passage barrier. Marsh Creek enters the Big Break area of the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta 

northeast of the city of Oakley.

Marsh Creek

No salmonids were observed by DFG during an April 1942 visual survey of Marsh Creek at two locations: 0.25 miles upstream 

from the mouth in a tidal reach, and in close proximity to a bridge four miles east of Byron (Curtis 1942). In August 1975 DFG 

again surveyed the creek from Marsh Creek Reservoir upstream to the headwaters adjacent to Morgan Territory Road and did 

not observe salmonids (Curtis and Anderson 1975). In a 1978 memorandum, DFG characterized Marsh Creek as seasonal and 

probably lacking any significant fishery resource (Anderson 1978).

In May 1981, Marsh Creek was sampled by seine and gill net at ten locations between the mouth and mid-elevation sites adjacent 

to Marsh Creek Road. No salmonids were collected (Leidy 1984).

EBRPD electrofished two Marsh Creek sites upstream and downstream from the Round Valley Creek confluence in July 1996. 

No O. mykiss were found (EBRPD 1996-1999).

Several intermittent headwater tributaries to Marsh Creek, including Curry Canyon, Perkins Canyon, and Dunn creeks were 

surveyed within Mt. Diablo State Park by California Department of Parks and Recreation biologists during 1985, and were found 

to contain no fish (Taylor 1985). Curry Canyon and Perkins Canyon were noted as intermittent streams, while Dunn Creek 

receives permanent flow from springs at the headwaters of Horse Creek adjacent to the Mount Diablo Mercury Mine.

Assessment: Construction of the drop structure near Brentwood and the Marsh Creek Reservoir blocked any existing runs of O. 

mykiss from reaching suitable habitat in the headwaters of Marsh Creek. We could not find evidence of the presence of historical 

O. mykiss in the headwaters of Marsh Creek. However, O. mykiss runs may have occured prior to the construction of Marsh Creek 

Reservoir. 
14

Mt. Diablo Creek Watershed

The headwaters of Mt. Diablo Creek consist of approximately 12 small, intermittent and perennial streams originating on the 

north slope of Mt. Diablo. From its headwaters, Mt. Diablo Creek flows in a northwest direction for 15.5 miles to its confluence 

with Suisun Bay. The watershed of Mt. Diablo Creek comprises about 56 square miles.

Mt. Diablo Creek

In 1855, Ayres presented specimens to the California Academy of Natural Sciences including a species he designated Salmo 

rivularis. According to Ayres, this form was “distinct” from S. iridea, the species described by Gibbons in 1855 from San Leandro 

Creek in Alameda County. Ayres’ specimens were taken a few miles south of Martinez, toward the foot of Mount Diablo, and are 

believed to have been collected from either the Mt. Diablo Creek watershed or the Walnut Creek watershed. Ayres observed that 

the largest specimen was about 200 mm in length (Ayres 1855). The small maximum length is consistent with that of O. mykiss

sampled in the headwaters of Mt. Diablo Creek (see discussion under Mitchell Creek, below).

According to staff at the Mt. Diablo Country Club golf course near Concord Naval Weapons Station, O. mykiss spawning 

migrations were observed during the1960s and 1970s (Leidy 2002). A November 1977 DFG visual survey of five sites along Mt. 

Diablo Creek between RM 7.6 and RM 11.5 concluded that although the reach was dry at the time of the survey, Mt. Diablo 

Creek had good potential for anadromous fish due largely to the presence of springs feeding portions of the mainstem and some 

tributaries (Reineck and Paulsen 1977). Management as an anadromous fishery was recommended. According to the survey 

report, the major limiting factor of the stream’s productivity is its intermittent nature (Reineck and Paulsen 1977). The survey also 

noted that, according to the Contra Costa Flood Control and Water Conservation District and the city of Concord, Mt. Diablo 

Creek contained no downstream barriers to fish migration.

During September 1981, Mt. Diablo Creek was seined at the Kirker Pass Road crossing and immediately upstream of the tidally 

influenced portions of the stream in a large pool upstream from the Port Chicago Highway crossings. Neither site contained O. 

mykiss (Leidy 1984).

In August 1988, EBRPD and Mt. Diablo State Park staff noted surface flow in approximately 400 yards of Mount Diablo Creek 

near the confluence with Mitchell Creek, but did not find O. mykiss (Alexander 1988). EBRPD staff noted that this section of 

creek with its perennial flow was the most promising area for creek enhancement and the introduction of native rainbow trout 

(Alexander 1988). EBRPD staff further concluded that flows downstream of the perennial reach to at least Concord Naval 

Weapons Station were insufficient to provide salmonid habitat in normal water years.

Leidy sampled seven sites between the tidal portion of Mt. Diablo Creek and its headwaters near Clayton by electrofishing in June 

1998. No O. mykiss were collected. (Leidy 2002).

Mitchell Creek (Mitchell Canyon Creek)

Mitchell Creek is an intermittent stream draining the northwest slopes of Mt. Diablo. It flows four miles from the Eagle Peak area 

generally north before entering Mt. Diablo Creek near the town of Clayton.
15

A 1977 DFG visual survey of Mitchell Creek immediately upstream from its confluence with Mt. Diablo Creek (near Clayton 

Road, Clayton) noted that the stream channel was dry, and rated Mitchell Creek as having “poor-fair” anadromous fishery value 

due in part to grazing and housing development (Reineck and Paulsen 1977).

In April 1985, the California Department of Parks and Recreation collected 13 O. mykiss from a 73-meter reach of Mitchell Creek 

located at about the 920-foot contour line in Mt. Diablo State Park (Taylor 1985). The sampled fish were age 1+ and ranged 

between 108-200 mm FL. It was concluded that YOY fish were not collected because they had yet to emerge from the gravels. 

The entire population of O. mykiss within the sampled area was estimated at approximately 190 individuals, with probably less 

than 500 fish for all of Mitchell Creek. An additional three O. mykiss were collected at a downstream pool where Mitchell Canyon 

Road crosses over the stream. The sampling report noted that the Mitchell Creek population was likely to be the only wild 

rainbow trout population in the San Ramon Valley and recommended monitoring and genetic studies (Taylor 1985). Park staff 

estimated that approximately 3,500 feet of stream channel maintained permanent flow.

During November of 1985, DFG electrofished pools in a 122-meter reach of Mitchell Creek approximately 1.5 miles upstream 

from the Mt. Diablo State Park ranger residence and collected six O. mykiss (75-198 mm FL) (Gray 1985). Three of the largest 

fish were found to be sexually mature (two males and one female), suggesting that these were resident fish.

In 1988, EBRPD staff estimated the O. mykiss population in Mitchell Creek at approximately 200 fish that were restricted during 

dry periods to a 0.25 mile reach of stream fed by springs in the upper canyon (Alexander 1988). Fish were reported to reach a 

maximum of about 200 mm TL, and EBRPD staff concluded that growth and size would be limited by the small volume of 

flow and useable habitat area. Riparian and substrate conditions were described as “good” to “very good” for salmonids from the 

headwaters to the confluence with Mt. Diablo Creek (Alexander 1988).

Leidy visually surveyed Mitchell Creek within Mt. Diablo State Park in December 1993, and observed O. mykiss (5-10: 50-

100 mm FL) in small pools in a 30-meter reach (Leidy 2002). According to EBRPD staff, this population no longer persists (P. 

Alexander pers. comm.).

Irish Canyon

In November 1977, DFG conducted a visual survey of Irish Canyon Creek in the vicinity of an impassable drop structure at 

the crossing of Nortonville Road, approximately 1.25 miles upstream from its confluence with Mt. Diablo Creek (Reineck 

and Paulsen 1977). In the report, DFG noted that the stream channel was dry, and rated Irish Canyon Creek as having “poor” 

anadromous fishery value due to heavy grazing practices.

Donner Creek

In November 1977, DFG visually surveyed Donner Creek immediately upstream of Clayton Road. Anadromous fishery value was 

rated “fair,” although past grazing and recent housing development were attributed as causing habitat degradation (Reineck and 

Paulsen 1977). Informal surveys of Donner Creek indicate that the watershed does not presently support an O. mykiss population 

(J. Hale pers. comm.).
16

Assessment: Anecdotal accounts of anadromous O. mykiss spawning migrations and the recent occurrence of O. mykiss in 

a headwater tributary, Mitchell Creek, is evidence for the historical use of Mt. Diablo Creek by anadromous O. mykiss as a 

migratory corridor. In addition to Mitchell Creek, suitable rearing habitat for O. mykiss also may be available within two perennial 

reaches of Mt. Diablo Creek and in the lower watershed near Concord Naval Weapons Station opposite the Mt. Diablo 

Country Club.

Walnut Creek Watershed

The Walnut Creek watershed is the largest within Contra Costa County, covering a total of 183 square miles. The creek itself 

is formed by the confluence of Las Trampas and San Ramon Creeks near the downtown district of the city of Walnut Creek. 

Other important tributaries include Pine and Galindo Creeks, which join Walnut Creek in the lower watershed. From the 

confluence with San Ramon Creek, Walnut Creek flows north for approximately ten miles to where it enters Suisun Bay east of 

the Carquinez Strait. This portion of the watershed consists of about 20 square miles. A flood control drop structure between the 

Willow Pass Road and Highway 242 crossings limits anadromous fish migration to all direct tributaries of Walnut Creek except 

Pacheco, Grayson and Pine Creeks. The drop structure is maintained by the Contra Costa County Public Works Agency. 

Walnut Creek

As discussed previously in the Mt. Diablo Creek section, Ayres described specimens believed to be O. mykiss from either the Mt. 

Diablo Creek or Walnut Creek watershed Ayres in 1855. Anecdotal evidence concerning Walnut Creek watershed fish species 

indicates that O. mykiss migrated into Walnut Creek tributaries between the 1950s and the mid-1960s (Cogger and Reineck 

1977c; Johnson 1957; Leidy 1983)(see also Pine Creek discussion in the following text).

In July 1977, DFG visually surveyed Walnut Creek from its mouth to the confluence of San Ramon Creek. The survey noted 

that about 95 percent of the channel had been altered by construction of levees or concrete channels (Gillespie and Richardson 

1977c). No salmonids were found throughout the stream. The survey also identified two drop structures as potential migration 

barriers to anadromous fish. The first, 12 feet high, is located 0.5 miles upstream of Willow Pass Road and the second, 15 

feet high, is located immediately downstream from the Bancroft Road crossing. The DFG survey report recommended the 

construction of fishways on the two existing drop structures if the headwater streams were found to contain significant potential 

anadromous salmonid habitat (Gillespie and Richardson 1977c). The survey identified low summer flows as limiting fish survival, 

concluding that water diversion during the summer and fall months should be curtailed.

In June 1978, DFG electrofished and seined a pool below the Bancroft Road drop structure and found no salmonids (Paulsen 

1978c). In November 1978, USFWS reported on the results of a Walnut Creek habitat evaluation conducted in relation to the 

Walnut Creek Project, which was started in 1964. No salmonids were noted during associated biotic resources surveys (McKevitt 

1978). As part of a fish distribution study, three Walnut Creek sites were sampled by electrofishing in October and November 

1980, and no salmonids were found (Leidy 1983).

In 1983, the USFWS completed a study of the Walnut Creek watershed basin in relation to the Walnut Creek Project. The 

study noted that the steelhead population declined markedly about the late 1950s, as reported by local residents, but that a small 

number of steelhead still entered the Walnut Creek basin each year, except for the 1976-1977 drought period (Ging 1983). The 
17

study also noted that between 1981 and 1983, both steelhead fishing effort and catch increased dramatically (Ging 1983). The 

USFWS observed steelhead redds downstream of the drop structure near the Willow Pass Bridge, but noted that the reach would 

likely have value only as a migratory corridor without the presence of barriers. Overall, the study rated existing steelhead habitat 

in the Walnut Creek basin as “fair to poor” (Ging 1983). In a planning aid letter associated with the study, USFWS stated the 

Walnut Creek Project had adversely affected habitat conditions for steelhead trout by reducing adult escapement by at least 100 

fish (McKevitt 1983).

DFG conducted a pilot creel census in Walnut Creek from November, 1983 through February, 1984. During this period, four 

O. mykiss were observed downstream from the Willow Pass Road drop structure (Meyer 1984). The steelhead were deemed of 

hatchery origin. The report noted that steelhead do not spawn in Walnut Creek. Observations by anglers indicate that adult 

fish migrate to the reach below the first drop structure near Willow Pass Road, beginning with the first rains in October and 

continuing through early January. Adult fish then leave Walnut Creek after a few weeks (Meyer 1984). A September, 1984 

electrofishing and seining survey at the Pine Creek confluence found no O. mykiss (Barlow 1984).

A 1990 fisheries enhancement study reviewed the historical and present distribution of salmonids in the Walnut Creek basin. The 

study concluded that steelhead historically used the entire Walnut Creek basin as spawning, nursery and rearing habitat (HRG 

1990). The report noted that O. mykiss annually entered the lower reaches of Walnut Creek, and migrated upstream as far as the 

drop structure at Willow Pass Road (HRG 1990).

About 2,300 feet of Walnut Creek was studied for fish habitat potential in September, 1990 including electofishing at one 

location (HRG 1990). The study concluded that Walnut Creek provided little good habitat for salmonid fishes and noted that 

two drop structures downstream of the city of Walnut Creek probably allowed passage for few, if any, salmonid adults (HRG 

1990). One O. mykiss (105 mm SL) was collected during the study upstream from the two drop structures, near the Lincoln 

Avenue Bridge proximate to downtown Walnut Creek. Observations reported in the study indicated that steelhead engaged in 

spawning activities downstream of the Willow Pass Road drop structure, including the building of about 25 redds in the winter of 

1989-1990 (HRG 1990).

DFG Scientific Collecting Permit Report Forms and associated data sheets indicated that two O. mykiss fry were taken from Walnut 

Creek south of the Willow Pass Road crossing, downstream from the drop structures, in April 1990 (Williamson 1990-1993). 

Smolt trapping in May 1992 produced two O. mykiss (41 mm, 65 mm) at a site upstream of the Concord Ave. Bridge, which is 

below the drop structures.

Leidy electrofished seven sites in November-December 1993 and six sites in May-June 1997 throughout the reach between the 

mouth of Walnut Creek and the lower most drop structure. No O. mykiss were collected (Leidy 2002).

Staff of the city of Pleasant Hill and USFWS have observed adult migrant O. mykiss in Walnut Creek during the spring every year 

for the last ten years. These fish have been observed below the most downstream drop structure (J. Hale pers. comm.).
18

Grayson Creek

Grayson Creek is the only major tributary to lower Walnut Creek that flows from the west. The creek originates in the Briones 

Hills and runs through the highly urbanized city of Pleasant Hill to join Walnut Creek in its lower reach. Much of Grayson Creek 

is confined within a concrete or earthen flood control channel.

In 1978, an investigation of a fish kill caused by a chemical spill found no O. mykiss among the dead fish between Concord 

Avenue and Pacheco Avenue, in the city of Pleasant Hill (CDFG 1978). During October and November 1980, two sites 

were electrofished and seined on Grayson Creek as part of a fish distribution survey. No salmonids were found (Leidy 1983). 

A 1983 USFWS steelhead trout study concludes that the creek provides neither spawning nor rearing habitat due in part to 

channelization and channel clearing (Ging 1983).

Leidy sampled two reaches in August 1997 and June 1998, a 15 meter reach of Grayson Creek approximately 300 feet upstream 

from the confluence with Walnut Creek, and a 24 meter reach approximately 300 feet downstream from Interstate 680, 

respectively. Neither survey found O. mykiss (Leidy 2002).

Pine Creek

Pine Creek is formed by several small tributaries draining the northwest slopes of Mt. Diablo and flows through Ygnacio Valley, 

entering Walnut Creek in its lower reach. The lower portion of Pine Creek is largely channelized and contains several passage 

barriers. Access to anadromous fish is confined to the lowest 4.7 stream miles and Pine Creek Flood Control Dam, constructed in 

1956 further upstream, also is a complete fish passage barrier.

Anecdotal evidence reported by DFG suggests that resident and anadromous O. mykiss were common in Pine Creek in the 1950s, 

but became rare in the late 1960s (Cogger and Reineck 1977c). A DFG survey of Pine Creek cited dam construction workers as 

reporting a few steelhead below the dam during January 1956 (Johnson 1957). Oncorhynchus mykiss were observed at Castle Rock 

Park in 1963 and 1964 (J. Hale pers. comm.).

In July 1977, DFG observed no salmonids during a visual survey of the seven miles of Pine Creek upstream of the Walnut Creek 

confluence. The report stated that channelization had eliminated suitable spawning and nursery habitat for salmonids, concluding 

that lower Pine Creek was essentially lost to anadromous salmonid use (Gillespie and Richardson 1977a). In August 1977, DFG 

surveyed the reach between RM 7.2 and RM 9.3, and again observed no salmonids. The report concluded that this reach of Pine 

Creek appeared to have limited value as a spawning and nursery stream for anadromous salmonids, but could provide access to 

Little Pine Creek and Arroyo Cerro, both of which provided fair to excellent steelhead salmonid habitat (Cogger and Reineck 

1977c).

As part of a fish distribution study, one location on Pine Creek was sampled by pole seine in September 1981 and produced no O. 

mykiss (Leidy 1984). For a 1983 USFWS steelhead habitat study of the Walnut Creek basin, staff visually surveyed the lower four 

miles of Pine Creek. The USFWS found that all but 0.25 miles of the surveyed reach was channelized and confined with concrete 

or earthen sides, and concluded that Pine Creek had no steelhead habitat of any significance (Ging 1983).
19

A report concerning the aquatic resources of Mt. Diablo State Park stated that steelhead and silver salmon once ascended Pine 

Creek at least to the vicinity of Castle Rock Park, but that the construction of Pine Creek Flood Control Dam in 1956 closed off 

Pine Creek to anadromous fish (Taylor 1985).

Galindo Creek 

Galindo Creek is the lowermost tributary of Pine Creek. It begins on the east slopes of Lime Ridge and west slopes of Mt. Zion, 

and flows north and west for 6.5 miles before joining Pine Creek approximately one mile above the confluence of Pine and 

Walnut Creeks.

In January 1976, an investigation of a fish kill found no O. mykiss among the dead fish between Treat Boulevard and Monument 

Boulevard in the city of Concord (Schmidt 1976). The downstream four miles of the Galindo Creek from the Pine Creek 

confluence to Wharton Way were assessed for steelhead habitat in January 1983. While no O. mykiss were observed, many pools 

suitable for steelhead rearing were noted (Ging 1983). The report concluded that channelization, low summer flows, lack of 

spawning gravel, and high water temperatures may preclude steelhead use of Galindo Creek (Ging 1983).

Little Pine Creek

Little Pine Creek drains an area of approximately 2.2 square miles. It flows from the northwest slopes of Mt. Diablo about three 

miles to the confluence with Pine Creek.

In August 1977, DFG visually surveyed a 2.4-mile reach of Little Pine Creek upstream of the confluence with Pine Creek. The 

survey noted that spawning potential was very good in the upper reach and fair to poor in the lower reach, and that the frequency 

of pools in the upper reach was excellent (Cogger and Reineck 1977b). The survey characterized Little Pine Creek as having 

good anadromous fishery potential limited by downstream urbanization and associated alterations to Pine and Walnut Creeks. 

An August 1977 DFG survey report for Pine Creek concluded that Little Pine Creek provided fair to excellent steelhead habitat 

(Cogger and Reineck 1977c). Informal surveys of Little Pine Creek indicate that the watershed does not presently support an O. 

mykiss population (J. Hale pers. comm.).

Arroyo del Cerro

Arroyo del Cerro drains an area of approximately 3.8 square miles. The creek originates on the north slope of Mt. Diablo and 

meets Pine Creek in the city of Walnut Creek.

DFG surveyed a 1.9-mile reach of Arroyo del Cerro in August 1977. The survey concluded that despite the creek’s history as a 

steelhead stream, it did not appear to support an anadromous fishery at that time (Cogger and Reineck 1977a). The report cited 

barriers in Walnut Creek and lower Pine Creek, as well as the removal of riparian vegetation and the effects of grazing to Arroyo 

del Cerro, as potentially contributing to the decline of anadromous salmonids. The survey concluded that re-establishment of 

an anadromous fishery would require the removal of downstream barriers and the return of stream flow throughout the system 

(Cogger and Reineck 1977a). An August 1977 DFG survey report for Pine Creek concluded that Arroyo del Cerro provided fair 

to excellent steelhead habitat (Cogger and Reineck 1977c). Informal surveys of Arroyo del Cerro indicate that the watershed does 

not presently support an O. mykiss population (J. Hale pers. comm.).
20

Las Trampas Creek

Las Trampas Creek is formed from several intermittent tributaries near Las Trampas Peak and flows north and east to its 

confluence with San Ramon Creek. No salmonids were recorded in a 1978 report by DFG on a fish kill in Las Trampas Creek 

near Carol Road (Young 1978). No salmonids were collected at two sites that were seined in Las Trampas Creek as part of a study 

of fishes in the Walnut Creek basin in October-November, 1980 (Leidy 1983).

As part of a 1983 USFWS steelhead habitat study, staff visually surveyed the lower 2.1 miles of Las Trampas Creek. The report 

noted limited pool habitat, barriers to migration, sedimentation, and high water temperatures as potential limiting factors for 

steelhead (Ging 1983). However, the report concluded that upper Las Trampas Creek perhaps had the greatest potential for 

steelhead re-establishment because of good streamside shading and the availability of gravel (Ging 1983).

A September 1984 survey of Las Trampas Creek by seine and dip net at the Pleasant Hill Road Bridge found no O. mykiss (Barlow 

1984). In April 1986, DFG noted 12-14 healthy looking rainbow trout in Las Trampas Creek and its tributary, Lafayette Creek 

(Gray 1987b).

A 1990 fisheries study reviewed the historical and present distribution of salmonids in the Walnut Creek basin. The study noted 

a 15-foot high drop structure on Las Trampas Creek between the Main Street and California Street bridges in the city of Walnut 

Creek that probably represented a complete barrier to upstream fish migration (HRG 1990). Electrofishing in a 35-meter reach of 

Las Trampas Creek near the Interstate 680 bridge did not produce salmonids (HRG 1990).

Leidy electrofished a 40 meter reach upstream from the Pheasant Hill Road Crossing in June 1998. No O. mykiss were collected 

(Leidy 2002).

Tice Creek

Tice Creek, tributary to Las Trampas Creek, drains an area of about 3.9 square miles between Las Trampas Creek to the west and 

San Ramon Creek to the east. It flows generally north through Tice Valley.

DFG visually surveyed about 4.6 miles of Tice Creek upstream from the Walnut Creek confluence in July 1976. No O. 

mykiss were observed, but the survey report concluded that the stream “probably” supported a steelhead population until the 

introduction of downstream barriers (Scoppettone and Curtis 1976). Two culverts (~750 feet and ~1,500 feet in length) occur in 

the watershed. Both structures serve as barriers to fish passage.

During October-November 1980, lower Tice Creek was seined and no salmonids were found (Leidy 1983). During JanuaryMarch 1983, USFWS staff visually surveyed steelhead rearing and spawning habitat in the lower two miles of Tice Creek. The 

study described “little” fish habitat downstream of Orchard Lane, with some suitable rearing habitat between Orchard Lane and 

the Rossmor Parkway (Ging 1983).
21

Lafayette Creek

Lafayette Creek is formed from several tributaries near Happy Valley and Lafayette Reservoir. It flows east for approximately three 

miles to its confluence with Las Trampas Creek.

During October-November 1980, Lafayette Creek was sampled immediately upstream of the confluence with Las Trampas Creek 

and no salmonids were found (Leidy 1983). In April 1986, DFG noted that 12-14 “healthy looking” rainbow trout were found in 

Las Trampas Creek and Lafayette Creek (Gray 1987b).

Leidy found no O. mykiss when he electrofished at the confluence of Layfayette Creek and Oak Creek in April 1999 (Leidy 

2002). According to DFG staff, O. mykiss have been seen in Lafayette Creek by construction crews as recently as 2002. These fish 

are believed to come from Lafayette Reservoir and to be transported by spill events during high winter flows (N. Kozicki pers. 

comm.).

Grizzly Creek

Grizzly Creek’s headwaters are on the northeast slopes of Las Trampas Ridge. The creek flows northwest for approximately 2.5 

miles before entering Las Trampas Creek in Burton Valley.

As part of a 1983 steelhead habitat study, USFWS staff visually surveyed 0.5 miles of Grizzly Creek upstream from its confluence 

with Las Trampas Creek. The study concluded that an abundance of fine sediments, shallow pools, lack of instream cover, and 

seven “major” passage barriers downstream in Las Trampas and Walnut creeks made Grizzly Creek of “little value” to steelhead 

(Ging 1983).

Reliez Creek

Reliez Creek flows southeast from Lafayette Ridge approximately 3.5 miles to its confluence with Las Trampas Creek. As part of 

a 1983 steelhead habitat study, USFWS staff visually surveyed 1.25 miles of Reliez Creek upstream from its confluence with Las 

Trampas Creek. The study concluded that the creek would provide “marginal” habitat for steelhead and noted 15 sites that could 

preclude fish passage at some or all stream flows (Ging 1983).

San Ramon Creek

San Ramon Creek drains an area of approximately 30 square miles, flowing generally north to its confluence with Las Trampas 

Creek, when it becomes Walnut Creek. Complete barriers to anadromous fish passage occur in the channel, the lowest being 

located about 2.7 miles above the Walnut Creek confluence. Primary tributaries to San Ramon Creek include Sycamore and 

Green Valley creeks, which drain the southwestern slopes of Mt. Diablo and join San Ramon Creek near Danville.

DFG visually surveyed San Ramon Creek in July 1977. The survey noted six concrete drop structures that were complete barriers 

to fish migration and rated spawning areas for salmonids as “poor throughout” (Gillespie and Richardson 1977b). During 

October-November 1980, nine reaches along the entire length of San Ramon Creek were seined as part of a fish distribution 

study. No salmonids were collected (Leidy 1983).
22

USFWS visually surveyed steelhead rearing and spawning habitat in San Ramon Creek in January-March 1983. The survey 

focused on the lower portion of the creek, where staff found an absence of suitable spawning habitat (Ging 1983). The report 

concluded that extensive channelization (i.e., concrete-lined channels and drop structures), as well as insufficient spawning and 

rearing habitat preclude the restoration of steelhead in San Ramon Creek.

In February 1984, Leidy sampled San Ramon Creek by pole seine at the bedrock falls at 29 Palms Drive and caught two O. mykiss

(198, 185mm FL) (Leidy 2002). A September 1984 survey including electrofishing, seining and dipnetting on San Ramon Creek 

at Livorna Road in the city of Walnut Creek found no O. mykiss (Barlow 1984). One O. mykiss was dipnetted at the 29 Palms 

Drive site in March 1985 (J. Hale pers. comm.).

As part of a 1990 fisheries enhancement study, six reaches along a total of approximately 0.8 miles of San Ramon Creek were 

visually surveyed in September 1990. One site was electrofished. Oncorhynchus mykiss was not recorded (HRG 1990). Within 

San Ramon Creek, the report noted “marginal” passage conditions attributed to the downstream concrete box channel, as well as 

limited spawning and rearing habitat (HRG 1990).

Sans Criante Creek

Sans Criante Creek is tributary to San Ramon Creek, entering from the east upstream from the Los Trancos Creek-San Ramon 

Creek confluence. It drains an area southeast of the city of Walnut Creek.

During January-March 1983, USFWS staff visually surveyed steelhead rearing and spawning habitat in Sans Criante Creek. The 

study concluded that Sans Criante Creek did not provide steelhead habitat because it lacked rearing pools of sufficient depth, 

suitable instream cover, spawning gravels, and streamside shading (Ging 1983).

Sycamore Creek

The West and East forks of Sycamore Creek join to form Sycamore Creek in the Black Hills on the southern slopes of Mt. Diablo. 

Sycamore Creek runs south then northwest six miles to join San Ramon Creek.

During October-November 1980, Sycamore Creek was sampled at two upstream locations and at the San Ramon Creek 

confluence. No O. mykiss were found (Leidy 1983).

Green Valley Creek

Green Valley Creek is formed by several intermittent tributaries on the southwest slopes of Mt. Diablo. The east branch joins 

Green Valley Creek near Green Valley School.

A long-time resident stated this currently intermittent stream once maintained perennial flow and supported trout (Banks and 

Fredrickson 1977). An unnamed tributary to upper Green Valley Creek near the Stone Valley Road crossing also was said to 

support “trout.” 
23

During October-November 1980, Green Valley Creek was seined at two sites. No O. mykiss were collected (Leidy 1983). An April 

1985 visual survey of the portion of Green Valley Creek within Mt. Diablo State Park also recorded no O. mykiss (Taylor 1985).

San Catanio Creek 

San Catanio Creek is a perennial headwater tributary to San Ramon Creek. It begins in Norris Canyon and flows north for 

approximately three miles before entering San Ramon Creek. 

Leidy surveyed three locations on San Catanio Creek by seine and dip net during August 2002 but did not record O. mykiss 

(Leidy 2002). However, habitat for steelhead spawning and rearing (i.e., well-shaded pools with adequate water temperatures and 

instream cover) was assessed as fair to good.

Bollinger Canyon Creek 

Bollinger Canyon Creek is a headwater tributary to San Ramon Creek that flows southwest between Las Trampas Ridge and 

Rocky Ridge for approximately five miles before abruptly turning east at the mouth of Bollinger Canyon. Bollinger Canyon Creek 

becomes San Ramon Creek after leaving Bollinger Canyon.

EBRPD staff has observed O. mykiss in Bollinger Canyon Creek, and speculates that the fish may be of hatchery origin that 

escaped from a created pond (P. Alexander pers. comm.). The presence of fingerlings in sites adjacent to Bollinger Canyon Road 

indicates that reproduction likely is occurring.

Assessment: Development in the Walnut Creek watershed, in particular related to flood control, has resulted in the extirpation 

of self-sustaining anadromous salmonid populations in Walnut Creek and its tributaries. While the historical use by O. mykiss of 

individual tributaries is difficult to document due to a paucity of available information, we assume that the species was widely 

distributed in the basin. Currently, O. mykiss regularly enter the lower reaches of Walnut Creek and migrate as far as the drop 

structure at Willow Pass Road.

Efforts to restore O. mykiss to Walnut Creek watershed depend on providing passage through lower Walnut Creek and into 

tributaries with potential spawning and rearing habitat, several of which have additional barriers. Las Trampas Creek and its 

tributaries probably hold the greatest potential to serve as habitat for a restored O. mykiss population.

Alhambra Creek (Arroyo del Hambre) Watershed

Alhambra Creek is formed by several tributaries in the Briones Hills and Franklin Ridge areas. The creek flows east through 

Vaca Canyon and north through Alhambra Valley and the city of Martinez before entering the San Francisco Estuary at the 

Carquinez Straight.
24

Alhambra Creek

DFG visually surveyed Alhambra Creek in October 1946 from near Martinez upstream two miles. No fish were found and the 

survey report declared that Alhambra Creek had no importance as a fishing stream (Calhoun 1946). A 1946 DFG correspondence 

concluded that there was no salmon run in Alhambra Creek (Croker 1946).

In August 1981, three Alhambra Creek sites were sampled by dip net and pole seine as part of a fish distribution study. No O. 

mykiss were found (Leidy 1984). A 1983 DFG memo cited local newspaper reports of adult steelhead commonly encountered in 

winter and in the streets of Martinez after flooding (Emig 1983). A 1987 DFG memorandum noted that Alhambra Creek had a 

small annual run of steelhead (Gray 1987a).

Two to three adult O. mykiss were observed in Alhambra Creek near downtown Martinez in the early 1990s by staff of EBRPD (P. 

Alexander pers. comm.). Based on the size (>560 mm) and condition of the fish, they were assumed to be anadromous and to be 

of Central Valley hatchery origin.

Restoration project staff discovered O. mykiss on two occasions in mid-September 2004, while dewatering Alhambra Creek as part 

of a habitat improvement project. A total of eight O. mykiss (200-300mm) were captured adjacent to Martinez Adult School and 

transferred downstream. The project fisheries biologist stated that all fish were in excellent condition (Thomas 2004).

Assessment: Alhambra Creek historically supported a small run of steelhead. It continues to be visited by in-migrating O. mykiss

in some years and may support a resident population. Barriers in the lower watershed and siltation may present limitations to the 

amount of salmonid habitat remaining in this system. However, the creek’s major tributaries, Arroyo del Hambre and Franklin 

Creek, are perennial, which may help support steelhead restoration in the watershed.

Rodeo Creek Watershed

Rodeo Creek is a small, intermittent stream formed from the contributions of numerous tributaries originating on the south 

west slopes of Franklin Ridge. The creek flows in a generally north to northwesterly direction approximately seven miles to San 

Pablo Bay.

Rodeo Creek

In February 1974, DFG electrofished four sites on Rodeo Creek near Interstate 80 and Highway 4. Salmonids were not recorded 

during the survey and DFG concluded that Rodeo Creek did not support a viable steelhead population (Strohschein 1974a). 

Sampling was repeated at one location near Interstate 80 in March 1974, and at two additional sites upstream and downstream 

from Highway 4. Oncorhynchus mykiss were not recorded during the second survey and DFG concluded that Rodeo Creek did not 

appear suitable for supporting a steelhead population (Strohschein 1974b).

As part of a fish distribution study, 11 sites were seined on Rodeo Creek during June 1981(Leidy 1981-1984, 1984). No 

salmonids were collected. Leidy electrofished Rodeo Creek at 4th Street and at View Point Road in October 1994. No O. mykiss

were found (Leidy 2002).
25

Assessment: We did not find evidence that the Rodeo Creek watershed has supported salmonids in the past, or is used currently 

by steelhead or salmon. The small relative size of the watershed and condition of salmonid habitat as assessed by DFG staff 

suggest that Rodeo Creek does not present a significant habitat resource for native O. mykiss populations.

Refugio Creek Watershed

The headwaters are of Refugio Creek are east of Pinole Ridge north of the Briones Hills. The creek flows northwest for 

approximately four miles to San Pablo Bay.

Refugio Creek

As part of a fish distribution study, Leidy sampled Refugio Creek during June 1981(Leidy 1981-1984, 1984). No salmonids 

were collected. 

Assessment: We did not find evidence for historical or current use of the Refugio Creek watershed by steelhead or salmon. The 

small relative size of the watershed and condition as assessed by DFG staff indicate that it is not of regional significance to the 

native O. mykiss population.

Pinole Creek Watershed

Pinole Creek’s watershed is about 35 square miles. The headwaters of Pinole Creek consist of numerous seeps and intermittent 

and perennial streams, in the Briones Hills. Pinole Creek is intermittent toward the headwaters but perennial upon reaching 

Pinole Valley, where it flows southeast to northwest for approximately nine miles into San Pablo Bay. The 1.6-mile reach below 

Interstate 80 is channelized. A natural bedrock falls downstream of the junction of Alhambra Valley and Bear Creek roads limits 

migration to the upper watershed under most flow conditions.

Pinole Creek

In April 1975, DFG documented fish mortality resulting from a chemical spill that caused a “complete” fish kill in the lower 1.5 

miles of Pinole Creek. A total of 101 O. mykiss carcasses were collected (69 0+ and 1+: 38-65 mm FL; 29 “smolt steelhead”: 130-

208 mm FL; and 3 resident adults 274-305 mm FL)(Anderson 1975). A newspaper report from 1979 stated that many of the fish 

had been planted in Pinole Creek in March 1974 during an earlier re-stocking (Lattin 1979).

In May 1976, DFG surveyed 6.5 miles of Pinole Creek between the Simas Avenue Bridge and a headwater fork at RM 9.1. The 

survey report noted that Pinole Creek supported a small steelhead run and that fish passage was limited by a natural barrier 0.4 

miles downstream from the intersection of Alhambra Valley and Bear Creek roads (Scoppettone 1976). Several juvenile steelhead 

were observed during the survey below the natural barrier.

During June 1976, DFG electrofished two reaches of Pinole Creek, one upstream and one downstream of the natural bedrock 

falls identified above. The downstream site yielded 14 “steelhead trout” (9 1+: 117-150 mm FL; 5 2+: 190-213 mm FL) 
26

(Anderson et al. 1976). No fish were collected in the upstream sampling. The survey report cited the probability that the falls 

constituted an upstream migration barrier in most years. 

In November 1978, DFG sampled Pinole Creek by electroshocking three sites to document steelhead spawning during the 

winter/spring of 1978. No O. mykiss were found. The survey report concluded that successful reproduction had not occurred the 

previous year (Paulsen 1978a). In April 1979, DFG stocked 3,152 YOY steelhead in Pinole Creek as part of a settlement related 

to the 1975 spill discussed above (Nagel 1979). Staff from DFG sampled Pinole Creek at three sites by electroshocking again in 

November 1979. No O. mykiss were collected, and the resulting report stated that steelhead had not successfully reproduced in 

Pinole Creek since 1976 (Paulsen 1979).

As part of a fish distribution study, Pinole Creek was sampled at 12 stations in June and August 1981. No O. mykiss were 

encountered in this effort (Leidy 1981-1984, 1984). The Department of Fish and Game surveyed a 3.7-mile reach of Pinole 

Creek upstream from the mouth in October 1982. Staff did not find O. mykiss, and stated that few O. mykiss were likely to use 

Pinole Creek due to low flow barriers and heavy siltation (Berthelsen 1982). According to DFG, the most substantial Pinole 

Creek barrier is the concrete box culvert under Interstate 80, which is over 100 feet in length (Berthelsen 1982). The report stated 

that Pinole Creek was the last stream in west Contra Costa County that could support a steelhead run (Berthelsen 1982).

In April 1984, 11,760 O. mykiss fingerlings were planted in Pinole Creek. (Gray 1988). Subsequent electrofishing by DFG near 

Alhambra Road in August 1988 was performed to determine if steelhead trout were found at the site. No O. mykiss were observed 

(Gray 1988). 

Leidy electrofished five reaches of Pinole Creek in October-November 1994. Oncorhynchus mykiss (3: 65, 75, 135 mm FL) were 

collected in a 30 meter reach located 300 feet upstream of the Interstate 80 crossing (Leidy 2002).

EBMUD staff electrofished two areas of Pinole Creek in July 1996. Oncorhynchus mykiss (2 1+: 100, 110 mm; 1 3+: 300 mm) 

were found near “the old bridge” on EBMUD property and were deemed to be wild steelhead capable of anadromy (Nuzum 

1996). Genetic analysis of O. mykiss from Pinole Creek indicated that fish sampled there are part of the Central California coast 

steelhead ESU (Nielsen 1999).

Three O. mykiss were seen in Pinole Creek immediately downstream of the Interstate 80 crossing in February 2001. These fish are 

believed to be native steelhead due to their size (>200 mm) and appearance (C. Arnold pers. comm.). EBMUD staff noted two O. 

mykiss (92, 102 mm) downstream from the Pinole Valley Road Bridge in March 2001 (Setka 2001).

Simas Creek

Simas Creek enters Pinole Creek from the north approximately 4.6 miles upstream of San Pablo Bay. A dead female O. mykiss

(650 mm) was seen in April 2002 in Simas Creek 0.1 miles upstream of the confluence with Pinole Creek (Setka 2002).

Assessment: The Pinole Creek watershed historically supported O. mykiss. Steelhead continue to enter the Pinole Creek 

watershed, although the size of the run has not been documented. The limited development of the upper watershed and the 

presence of native trout in the creek indicate that Pinole Creek is a good candidate for additional restoration efforts, including 

addressing the impediment to passage posed by the culvert beneath Interstate 80 and sedimentation issues in the upper watershed.
27

Garrity Creek Watershed

Garrity Creek begins on the western slopes of Sobrante Ridge. It flows west, then north, for approximately three miles to San 

Pablo Bay.

Garrity Creek

As part of a fish distribution study, Garrity Creek was sampled at three stations in July 1981. No O. mykiss were encountered in 

this effort (Leidy 1984).

Assessment: We did not find evidence of historical or current use of the Garrity Creek watershed by steelhead or salmon. The 

small relative size of the watershed and condition as assessed by DFG staff indicate that Garrity Creek does not have potential to 

support significant O. mykiss populations.

San Pablo Creek Watershed

San Pablo Creek originates as an intermittent stream in the coastal hills southeast of Orinda. The creek flows northwest for 

approximately 2.5 miles where it is joined by the west fork of San Pablo Creek near the town of Orinda. Another smaller 

perennial tributary that drains the east slope of the Berkeley Hills joins San Pablo Creek near the Moraga Road crossing. Further 

downstream, the West Fork of San Pablo Creek, a perennial spring-fed tributary originating in the Berkeley Hills, flows north for 

a distance of approximately one mile before entering a culvert under Highway 24. This fork flows 1.7 miles before joining San 

Pablo Creek. Bear Creek is San Pablo Reservoir’s other major tributary.

Flows in the upper portion of San Pablo Creek are impounded in San Pablo Reservoir (between approximately RM 10 and RM 

15) constructed in 1918 and managed by EBMUD. The drainage area above San Pablo Reservoir is about 32 square miles. A 

concrete drop structure is located on San Pablo Creek just upstream from Bear Creek Road (and upstream of San Pablo Reservoir) 

that is a barrier to fish migrating upstream from San Pablo Reservoir in most years.

Since the 1980s, EBMUD and DFG have planted large numbers of O. mykiss in San Pablo Reservoir for recreational fishing, 

totaling a contribution of approximately 400,000 fish per year. In 2001, EBMUD began planting only sterile, triploid O. 

mykiss to minimize potential genetic contribution to the Central California steelhead ESU from hatchery origin fish. However, 

elementary school programs continue to plant small numbers of fertile O. mykiss fry of American River steelhead origin in San 

Pablo Creek upstream of the reservoir (R. Hartwell pers. comm.). 

San Pablo Creek

As part of a study of rainbow trout in Mexico and California, researchers collected O. mykiss in the upper West Fork of San Pablo 

Creek near the Highway 24 crossing in January 1953 (30: 96-217 mm) (Needham and Gard 1959). The study concluded that the 

sampled fish were ancestors of steelhead stocks that had not hybridized with introduced fish. The study also noted that steelhead 

were known to ascend San Pablo Creek during winter and spring, and that a steelhead fishery existed in the unblocked stream 

areas below San Pablo Dam (Needham and Gard 1959). In their classic study, Needham and Gard noted that “Formerly [San 
28

Leandro Creek] flowed into San Francisco Bay near the City of Alameda and, like nearby San Pablo Creek, originally had runs of 

both steelhead and silver salmon” (Evans 1957). A long time resident of the City of El Sobrante provides anecdotal accounts of 

steelhead being caught downstream of San Pablo Dam in the late 1940s and early 1950s (C. Leggitt pers. comm.).

In June 1976, DFG visually surveyed 2.1 miles of San Pablo Creek from the Bear Creek confluence above San Pablo Reservoir, 

upstream to the Lauterwasser Creek confluence. The survey report found “good” to “excellent” spawning gravel, but no O. mykiss

were observed (Curtis and Scoppettone 1976). The Department of Fish and Game noted that the EBMUD filtration plant’s 

operational procedures and the large drop structure upstream from Bear Creek Road as limiting the potential for a substantial 

reproductive population of O. mykiss using San Pablo Reservoir and spawning in San Pablo Creek (Curtis and Scoppettone 1976). 

The Department of Fish and Game electroshocked three sites in this study reach later in June 1976 and did not encounter O. 

mykiss (Scoppettone et al. 1976).

DFG revisited the 1.3-mile section of San Pablo Creek between the Bear Creek confluence and the EBMUD filtration plant in 

July 1981. Staff observed one O. mykiss (254 mm) in the reach beginning at the reservoir and extending upstream 0.35 miles. 

The survey report concluded that this fish presumably migrated from the reservoir (Jong 1981). The survey report included 

recommendations for removing the 15-foot drop structure upstream from San Pablo Reservoir and changing filtration plant 

operations to allow use of the habitat by fish migrating out of the reservoir. In November 1981, an EBMUD-commissioned 

reconnaissance survey of San Pablo Creek above San Pablo Reservoir was performed. The resulting report stated that no juvenile 

O. mykiss were observed, but surveyors noted about ten large trout from the Bear Creek Road barrier downstream to the reservoir 

(Kelly 1981).

EBMUD conducted approximately bimonthly O. mykiss spawning surveys from the winter of 1989/90 to the winter of 1994/95. 

Surveys were limited to the approximately 0.5 miles of stream between San Pablo Reservoir and the drop structure at the Bear 

Creek Road Bridge. Large numbers of adult O. mykiss and redds were observed regularly over the course of each spawning season, 

with the 1990/91 season totaling 288 observed adults and 365 redds. Investigators noted that surveys did not necessarily count 

all redds each season because scour and deposition associated with frequent high flow events tended to destroy all or most redds 

constructed since the previous high flow event (EBMUD 1989-1995).

In the EBMUD surveys, adult O. mykiss occasionally were measured with sizes up to 477 mm FL. On two occasions (1989/90 

and 1993/94), water clarity allowed identification of all observed adults as hatchery fish. Electrofishing in August 1993 and 

February 1994, and visual observations in April 1995, identified juvenile O. mykiss. These survey efforts verified successful natural 

propagation, although EBMUD fisheries biologists speculated that these juveniles may have migrated from upstream reaches, 

since all observed redds in this reach were destroyed by high flow events. The August 1993 electrofishing survey yielded 17 O. 

mykiss (66-108 mm) from 60 meters of stream. The February 1994 electrofishing study observed YOY averaging 40 mm, but 

recorded only two YOY (29 mm) in addition to about 20 unmeasured adults. Visual observations in April 1995 estimated at least 

25 YOY to be 21-25 mm FL (EBMUD 1989-1995). EBMUD believed Oncorhynchus mykiss occurring in tributaries may contain 

a hatchery-strain genetic component from fish planted into San Pablo Reservoir (Hartwell 2002).

Leidy sampled San Pablo Creek in October 1993, upstream from the Avenida de Orinda crossing, and did not find O. mykiss 

(Leidy 2002). In April 1999, he electrofished San Pablo Creek at three locations below San Pablo Reservoir: at the EBMUD 

water treatment plant, at Via Verde and Minuet Way, and at a location just above Interstate 80. This latter station produced a 

single O. mykiss (175 mm) that was silver with no parr marks and little pink coloration (Leidy 2002). 
29

Bear Creek

Bear Creek, the largest tributary to San Pablo Creek, begins in the Briones Hills as several intermittent tributaries that join and 

flow west to enter Briones Reservoir. Bear Creek flows from Briones Reservoir for 0.5 miles before entering San Pablo Reservoir. A 

natural, bedrock barrier is located about 0.5 miles upstream of Briones Reservoir preventing fish migration to upstream portions 

of Bear Creek.

DFG visually surveyed five miles of Bear Creek upstream of the mouth at San Pablo Reservoir in September 1960, before filling 

of Briones Reservoir. The survey report indicated finding “a few” O. mykiss in pools in the lower stream areas, and deemed Bear 

Creek to be of minor value in contributing to a sport fishery (Hayden and Morehouse 1960).

Lauterwasser Creek

As part of a fish distribution study, three sites were seined on Lauterwasser Creek during July 1981. No salmonids were collected 

(Leidy 1984, Leidy, 1981-1984).

Assessment: Habitat for O. mykiss using the San Pablo Creek watershed was limited severely by construction of San Pablo Dam 

in 1960. The historical steelhead run was extirpated from above the reservoir as a result of its construction. Existing spawning 

runs in streams tributary to San Pablo Reservoir consist of O. mykiss of hatchery and possibly wild origin.

Wildcat Creek Watershed

Wildcat Creek flows generally northwest through the valley between the Berkeley Hills and San Pablo Ridge. The lower portion 

of the creek passes through the city of San Pablo to enter the San Francisco Estuary at San Pablo Bay. Passage barriers in lower 

Wildcat Creek consist of a concrete-lined culvert beneath the K-mart parking lot and a drop structure at Interstate 80, maintained 

by CalTrans. These barriers may be passable at some flows. Two dams, both managed by EBRPD, are present in the upper 

watershed, forming Jewel Lake and Lake Anza (~RM 10). These dams block all upstream fish migration.

Wildcat Creek

DFG sampled Wildcat Creek by electrofishing in November 1978 but did not find O. mykiss (Paulsen 1978b). In July 1981, 

another fish distribution study sampled six Wildcat Creek locations below San Pablo Dam Road. No O. mykiss were found (Leidy 

1984).

In September 1983, EBRPD planted 615 native, coastal O. mykiss from Redwood Creek (tributary to San Leandro Creek) into 

Wildcat Creek between Alvarado Park and the University of California, Berkley, Botanic Gardens (Alexander 1984). EBRPD 

reported that no trout were present in Wildcat Creek prior to this stocking, so that the newly established population would 

provide a second and separate source for a “precarious” and “unique” genetic stock (Alexander 1990b). In July 1985, DFG and 

EBRPD electrofished Wildcat Creek for evidence of spawning of the stocked fish. A total of 51 O. mykiss were caught, ranging in 

size from 37-222 mm FL, which suggested that successful reproduction was occurring (Gray 1986b). 
30

In May 1986, DFG and EBRPD electrofished Wildcat Creek at three locations: upstream from Lake Anza, just downstream from 

Lake Anza, and upstream from Lake Jewel at the Orchard Campground. Each site had O. mykiss, with a total of 12 individuals. 

Fish caught ranged in size from 27-465 mm FL (Gray 1986b). Numerous YOY were observed at the uppermost station, but not 

at other stations (Gray 1986b). Also in May 1986, five Wildcat Creek locations were electrofished, with two O. mykiss (195, 175 

mm) collected upstream from Jewel Lake, five O. mykiss (50-70 mm) downstream from Jewel Lake, six O. mykiss (153-271 mm) 

at Alvarado Park, and 14 O. mykiss (9: 130-140 mm; 5: 51-71 mm) at the northwestern boundary of Wildcat Canyon Park. The 

remaining site was near the Rifle Range Road Bridge, where no O. mykiss were observed (Gray 1986a).

To determine the downstream-most distribution of O. mykiss in Wildcat Creek, a follow-up electrofishing survey was conducted 

in June 1986 at three sites between Davis Park in Richmond and the 29th Street Bridge. Oncorhynchus mykiss were found only at 

the 29th Street Bridge location (6: 2 YOY, ~45mm; 4 188-250 mm). The survey report cited the presence of YOY as evidence of 

successful spawning, despite degraded habitat due to urbanization (Alexander 1986). 

In May 1987, EBRPD visually surveyed Wildcat Creek from Alvarado Park upstream to the Botanic Garden. YOY were abundant 

throughout the survey area. Twelve “larger rainbow trout” were observed between Alvarado Park and Jewel Lake, while above 

Jewel Lake “several” larger trout were also seen (Alexander 1992).

In August 1988, EBRPD electrofishing documented 23 YOY and 11 “larger” O. mykiss below the Botanical Garden, and no 

O. mykiss below Jewel Lake (Alexander 1992). Electrofishing at the site below Jewel Lake in October 1989 found three YOY 

O. mykiss and 15 “larger” rainbow trout. Between Lake Anza and Jewel Lake, two “larger” O. mykiss were found, while 59 YOY 

and 14 “larger” O. mykiss were collected below the Botanical Garden (Alexander 1992). In July 1990, EBRPD electrofished five 

Wildcat Creek locations and obtained 50 O. mykiss (42-209 mm FL) (Alexander 1990a).

In April 1991, a student at the University California, Berkeley electrofished the two perennial reaches of Wildcat Creek to 

determine the condition of O. mykiss populations. The upper reach was located above Lake Anza, while the lower reach was at the 

northwest edge of Wildcat Canyon Regional Park. The upper reach produced 46 O. mykiss (86-283 mm FL). In the lower reach, 

71 O. mykiss were caught (71-194 mm). The resulting study reported that the presence of multiple age classes in both the upper 

and lower reaches indicated successful spawning in the two areas (Cohen 1991). The study also noted age 3+ O. mykiss from Lake 

Anza spawning in upper reaches of Wildcat Creek.

Leidy electrofished several ten-meter reaches of Wildcat Creek at the lower end of Wildcat Regional Park in July 1992. One 

station yielded four O. mykiss (188-224 mm FL), while a second station yielded 11 O. mykiss (66-210 mm) plus 31 unmeasured 

YOY (Leidy 2002). Leidy also electrofished a 30 meter reach immediately downstream of the Verde Avenue Bridge in North 

Richmond in June 1993, but did not find O. mykiss (Leidy 2002). 

EBRPD conducted a study of Wildcat Creek O. mykiss populations in summer 2001. Six sites were sampled by electrofishing 

between the most downstream, “Alvarado,” and the most upstream, “Upper,” inclusive. Oncorhynchus mykiss was present at all 

locations, with densities ranging from less than 0.05 per square meter to over 0.4 per square meter (Alexander et al. 2002). The 

study report concludes that Wildcat Creek appears to have “ample” over-summering habitat for trout, although sedimentation was 

noted as a limiting factor (Alexander et al. 2002).

EBRPD again electrofished multiple Wildcat Creek sites in 2002. The resulting report notes low numbers of O. mykiss YOY in 

relation to previous years (Alexander et al. 2002). Total YOY (<100 mm) collected varied from five at the most downstream site 
31

(“Alvarado”) to 35-45 at the “Lower,” “Middle,” and “Upper” locations (Alexander et al. 2002). Staff cited an established native 

O. mykiss population in the drainage that may be experiencing negative effects from human activities in the riparian corridor 

(Alexander et al. 2002).

Assessment: Wildcat Creek supported a steelhead run historically, but the introduction of passage barriers and habitat 

destruction have limited substantially the ability of the watershed to sustain a viable population. Oncorhynchus mykiss (probably 

derived from plantings of coastal anadromous stock in 1983) successfully reproduces in the portion of Wildcat Creek below Jewel 

Lake. Oncorhynchus mykiss are known to reproduce successfully in the area above Lake Anza. Passage improvements in lower 

Wildcat Creek that ensure sufficient, available habitat are necessary for a self-sustaining anadromous population of steelhead to 

persist in the drainage.

Cerrito Creek Watershed

Cerrito Creek drains a portion of the East Bay hills with high levels of residential and commercial development, and large sections 

of the creek are channelized or underground. The creek consists of approximately two miles of channel between the headwaters 

and the mouth at the north side of Albany Hill.

Cerrito Creek

As part of a fish distribution study, Cerrito Creek was sampled at five locations in July 1981. No O. mykiss were found (Leidy 

1984). Leidy sampled Cerrito Creek just upstream from Interstate 80 in December 1993. Oncorhynchus mykiss was not found 

(Leidy 2002).

Assessment: While anadromous salmonids may have used Cerrito Creek historically, no direct evidence of a viable run occurring 

in the watershed exists. The system has been altered severely by development and flood control facilities, and appears incapable of 

supporting a viable O. mykiss population.
32

Watershed Stream/ Tributary

Yrs. Surveyed/ Quant. Data

Max. Period of Record

Data

Type

Life Hist. Stage/

No. Yrs. Data

Anad.Life-CyclePossible

O. mykiss Evidence 

of Pop. Decline

Current Pop.Status

References(Pers. Comm.) Hist. Current

Marsh Creek Marsh 5/0

0

2001

1, 2 - N DF DF Y 0 9, 22, 23, 26, 48, 70

Mt. Diablo Creek Mt. Diablo 6/0

1855-

1970s

1998

0, 1, 2, 3 R1; M/1 UNK DF PS Y 0 3, 11, 48, 49, 61

Mitchell 4/1 1985- 1998 1, 2 J/1; R/1 N DF NP Y 0 3, 33, 49, 61, 70 (1)Irish Canyon 1/0 0 1977 1 - N UNK NP - 0 61Donner 1/0 0 1977 1 - N PB NP - 0 61(5)

Walnut Creek Walnut 16/1 1950s- 2002 0, 1, 2, 3 J/1; M/14 N DF DF Y 1

13, 19, 31, 32, 41, 42, 47, 49-52, 59, 72(4)

Grayson 5/0 0 1998 1, 2, 3 - N PS NP - 0 16, 32, 47, 49Pine 6/0

1956-

1964

1983

0, 1, 3 M/1 N DF NP Y 0

19, 29, 32, 42, 48, 70(5)

Galindo 2/0 0 1983 1, 3 - N PS NP - 0 32, 62Little Pine 1/0 0 1977 1 - N DF NP Y 0 18, 19 (5)Arroyo del Cerro 1/0 0 1977 1 - N DF NP Y 0 17, 19 (5)

Table III-1. Distribution status of O. mykiss in San Francisco Estuary streams of Contra Costa County, Californiaa
33

Watershed Stream/ Tributary

Yrs. Surveyed/ Quant. Data

Max. Period of Record

Data

Type

Life Hist. Stage/

No. Yrs. Data

Anad.Life-CyclePossible

O. mykiss Evidence 

of Pop. Decline

Current Pop.Status

References(Pers. Comm.) Hist. Current

Las Trampas 7/0 1986 1998 1, 2, 3 - N PB NP - 0 13, 32, 37, 41, 47, 49, 73

Tice 3/0 0 1983 1, 2, 3 - N PB NP Y 0 32, 47, 64Lafayette 4/0 1986- 2002 1, 2 - N PB NP Y 0 37, 47, 49 (7)Grizzly 1/0 0 1983 1 - N UNK NP - 0 32Reliez 1/0 0 1983 1 - N UNK NP - 0 32San Ramon 5/1

1984-

1985

1990

1, 2, 3 R/1 N DF UNK Y 0 

13, 30, 32, 41, 47, 49(5)

Sans Criante 1/0 1983 1 - N UNK NP - 0 32

Sycamore 1/0 0 1980 3 - N UNK NP - 0 47Green Valley 2/0 0 1985 0, 1, 3 - N DF NP Y 0 12, 47, 70San Catanio 2/0 0 2002 1, 3 - N PB NP Y 0 49Bollinger Canyon 0 0 - - N DF DF Y 1 (1)

Alhambra Creek Alhambra 4/1 1983- 2004 0, 1, 3 M/2; R/1 UNK DF DF Y 1 15, 21, 27, 36, 48, 71 (1)
34

Watershed Stream/ Tributary

Yrs. Surveyed/ Quant. Data

Max. Period of Record

Data

Type

Life Hist. Stage/

No. Yrs. Data

Anad.Life-CyclePossible

O. mykiss Evidence 

of Pop. Decline

Current Pop.Status

References(Pers. Comm.) Hist. Current

Rodeo Creek Rodeo 3/0 0 1994 2, 3 - N UNK NP - 0 46, 48, 49, 68, 69

Refugio Creek Refugio 1/0 0 1984 3 - N UNK NP - 0 46, 48Pinole Creek Pinole 8/4 1975- 2001 0 , 1, 2, 3 J/4; S/1; R/3 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3

8, 10, 14, 38, 45, 46, 48, 49, 53, 55-57, 60, 63, 66 (2)

Simas 1/1 1999 3 M/1 Y PB DF - 1 67

Garrity Creek Garrity 1/0 0 1981 3 - UNK UNK UNK - 0 48San Pablo Creek San Pablo 10/6 1959- 99 1, 2, 3 J/4; S/1; R/8 UNK DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 24, 25, 39, 43, 44, 49, 54, 65 (6)

Bear 1/0 1960 1 - N DF NP Y 0 40

Lauter-wasser 1/0 0 1981 3 - N PS NP Y 0 46, 48

Wildcat Creek Wildcat 13/7 1978- 2002 1, 2 J/10; R/10 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 1, 2, 4-7, 20, 34, 35, 48, 49, 58

Cerrito Creek Cerrito 2/0 0 1993 2, 3 - N PS NP Y 0 48, 49

a Table headings and codes are defined in the Methods section of this report.
35

1. Alexander, P., EBRPD. 1984. Letter to interested parties. Re: 1983 Upper San Leandro Reservoir tributary electroshock 

surveys. Dated January 13.

2. Alexander, P., EBRPD. 1986. Memo to file. Re: Fish Population Sampling, Wildcat Creek, Contra Costa County; 

June 4, 1986. Dated October 2.

3. Alexander, P., EBRPD. 1988. Letter to B. Doyle, CDFG. Re: Investigation of fisheries resources in Mitchell Creek and 

Mount Diablo Creek areas. Dated September 16.

4. Alexander, P., EBRPD. 1990a. Data Sheet: electrofish sampling results 7/26 - 7/27 1990.

5. Alexander, P., EBRPD. 1990b. Note to file. Re: Management of the unique trout in Redwood Creek. Dated 

December 1.

6. Alexander, P., EBRPD. 1992. Wildcat Creek Trout Surveys.

7. Alexander, P., S. M. Brumbaugh, and J. R. Manley. 2002. East Bay Regional Park District study of disturbance factors’ 

impacts on riparian habitat and stream biota- Wildcat Creek and Redwood Creek, Contra Costa County. EBRPD.

8. Anderson, K. R., CDFG. 1975. Memo to Fisheries Management Region 3. Re: Fish kill carcass count, Pinole Creek, 

Contra Costa County; April 23, 1975. Dated April 28.

9. Anderson, K. R., CDFG. 1978. Memo to J. W. Emig. Re: Review and comment on draft reconnaissance report for fish 

and wildlife aspects of Los Vaqueros and Corral Hollow projects. Dated August 31.

10. Anderson, K. R., R. Curtis, and G. Scoppettone, CDFG. 1976. Memo to Fisheries Management Region 3. Re: Fish 

Population Sampling, Pinole Creek, Contra Costa County; June 4, 1976. Dated June 12.

11. Ayres, D. 1855. Species description, Salmo rivularis. Proceedings of the California Academy of Natural Sciences 1 and 2, 

1854-1862:42-43.

12. Banks, P., and D. A. Fredrickson. 1977. Page 9 of a report thought to be from: An archeological investigation of 

twelve parcels in the Upper San Ramon Creek watershed scheduled for channel improvements, Contra Costa County, 

California. Contra Costa County Public Works.

13. Barlow, G. 1984. Data Sheet: Walnut Creek basin seine and electrofishing survey.

14. Berthelsen, M. S., CDFG. 1982. Stream Survey Pinole Creek. Report dated November 22.

15. Calhoun, A. J., CDFG. 1946. Stream Survey Alhambra Creek. Report dated October 17.

16. CDFG. 1978. Initial report of fish and wildlife loss.

17. Cogger, M., and R. Reineck, CDFG. 1977a. Stream Survey Arroyo del Cerro Creek. Report dated September 1.

18. Cogger, M., and R. Reineck, CDFG. 1977b. Stream Survey Little Pine Creek. Report dated August 17.

19. Cogger, M., and R. Reineck, CDFG. 1977c. Stream Survey Pine Creek (upper reach). Report dated September 1.

20. Cohen, S. D. 1991. Condition of Rainbow Trout in Wildcat Creek and prospects for habitat enhancement. Class report. 

U. C. Berkeley, Berkeley.

21. Croker, R. S., CDFG. 1946. Letter to A. C. Taft. Re: Flood control, Alhambra Creek. Dated October 24.

22. Curtis, B., CDFG. 1942. Stream Survey Marsh Creek. Report dated April 1.

23. Curtis, R., and K. R. Anderson, CDFG. 1975. Memo to Fisheries Management Region 3. Re: Field Note: Marsh Creek, 

Contra Costa County. Dated September 16.

24. Curtis, R., and G. Scoppettone, CDFG. 1976. Stream Survey San Pablo Creek. Report dated June 7.

25. EBMUD. 1989-1995. San Pablo Creek Fish Survey.

26. EBRPD. 1996-1999. East Bay Regional Park District Fish Sampling Results, 1996-1999.

References
36

27. Emig, J. W., CDFG. 1983. Memo. Re: Alhambra Creek, Contra Costa County. Dated October 18.

28. Evans, W. A. 1957. Letter to P. R. Needham. Dated February 21.

29. Gillespie, M., and L. Richardson, CDFG. 1977a. Stream Survey Pine Creek (lower). Report dated July 29.

30. Gillespie, M., and L. Richardson, CDFG. 1977b. Stream Survey San Ramon Creek. Report dated July 27.

31. Gillespie, M., and L. Richardson, CDFG. 1977c. Stream Survey Walnut Creek. Report dated July 25.

32. Ging, G. 1983. Walnut Creek Steelhead Trout study Contra Costa County, California. CDFG.

33. Gray, F., CDFG. 1985. Memo to file. Re: Fish Population Sampling, Mitchell Creek, Contra Costa County. Dated 

November 12.

34. Gray, F., CDFG. 1986a. Memo to file. Re: Fish Population Sampling, Wildcat Creek, Contra Costa County; July 18, 

1985. Dated September 24.

35. Gray, F., CDFG. 1986b. Memo to file. Re: Fish Population Sampling, Wildcat Creek, Contra Costa County; May 28, 

1986. Dated September 24.

36. Gray, F., CDFG. 1987a. Memo to M. Buelna. Re: Arroyo del Hambre Creek, tributary to Alhambra Creek, Contra 

Costa County Stream alteration at 5100 Alhambra Valley Road, Martinez. Dated August 3.

37. Gray, F., CDFG. 1987b. Letter to T. Palmisano. Re: Salmon and trout habitat in Alameda and Contra Costa County. 

Dated October 30.

38. Gray, F., CDFG. 1988. Memo to file. Re: Fish Population Sampling, Pinole Creek, Contra Costa County. Dated 

November 15.

39. Hartwell, R., EBMUD. 2002. Letter to G. Becker, CEMAR. Re: Information related to rainbow trout data for 1992 

redd survey in San Pablo Creek. Dated September 23.

40. Hayden, R., and J. Morehouse, CDFG. 1960. Stream Survey Bear Creek. Report dated September 13.

41. HRG. 1990. Walnut Creek Fisheries. City of Walnut Creek, Walnut Creek.

42. Johnson, W. C., CDFG. 1957. Pine Creek Flood Control Dam Lake Survey. Report dated April [1957].

43. Jong, H. W., CDFG. 1981. Memo to M. E. Rugg. Re: San Pablo Creek Survey. Dated July 29.

44. Kelly, D. W. 1981. Reconnaissance survey of San Pablo Creek above San Pablo Reservoir, Contra Costa County. D. W. 

Kelley and Associates.

45. Lattin, D. “The trout return to Pinole Creek.” San Francisco Examiner 1979: 1.

46. Leidy, R. A., USEPA. 1981-1984. Unpublished stream survey data supporting Leidy, 1984.

47. Leidy, R. A. 1983. Distribution of fishes in streams of the Walnut Creek Basin, California. California Fish and Game 

69(1): 23-32.

48. Leidy, R. A. 1984. Distribution and Ecology of Stream Fishes in the San Francisco Bay Drainage (and associated 

unpublished data, 1981-1984). Hilgardia 52(8).

49. Leidy, R. A., USEPA. 2002. Unpublished stream survey data 1992-2002.

50. McKevitt, J. J., USFWS. 1978. Letter to J. M. Adsit, Colonel, USACE. Re: Planning aid letter regarding Walnut Creek 

Project. Dated November 16.

51. McKevitt, J. J., USFWS. 1983. Letter to C. A. E. Williams. Re: Planning aid letter regarding Walnut Creek Project. 

Dated May 26.

52. Meyer, F. A., CDFG. 1984. Memo to R. Beland. Re: Pilot Creel Census, Carquinez Strait Area, Steelhead Catch. Dated 

April 17.

53. Nagel, E. T., CDFG. 1979. Letter to C. R. Hoffman. Re: Fish Stocking Record Pinole Creek. Dated June 19.
37

54. Needham, P. R., and R. Gard. 1959. Rainbow trout in Mexico and California with notes on the Cutthroat series. 

University of California Publications in Zoology 67:1-85.

55. Nielsen, J. L. 1999. Draft report: Variation in mtDNA and nuclear microsatellite DNA markers in Pinole Creek trout. 

USDA FS PSW, Hopkins Marine Station, Stanford University.

56. Nuzum, EBMUD. 1996. Memo to R. Hartwell, EBMUD. Re: Pinole Creek Electrofishing. Dated July 31.

57. Paulsen, I. L., CDFG. 1978a. Memo to Fisheries Management Region 3. Re: Electroshocker Sampling, Pinole Creek, 

Contra Costa County. Dated November 16.

58. Paulsen, I. L., CDFG. 1978b. Memo to Fisheries Management Region 3. Re: Electroshocker Sampling, Wildcat Creek, 

Contra Costa County. Dated November 16.

59. Paulsen, I. L., CDFG. 1978c. Memo to Fisheries Management Region 3. Re: Fish Population Sampling, Walnut Creek, 

Contra Costa County. Dated July 14.

60. Paulsen, I. L., CDFG. 1979. Memo to Fisheries Management Region 3. Re: Fish Population Sampling, Pinole Creek, 

Contra Costa County; November 6, 1979. Dated November 15.

61. Reineck, R. C., Jr., and I. L. Paulsen, CDFG. 1977. Memo to Fisheries Management Region 3. Re: Stream Survey of Mt 

Diablo Creek, Contra Costa County. Dated December 9.

62. Schmidt, P. 1976. Galindo Creek: initial report of fish and wildlife loss.

63. Scoppettone, G., CDFG. 1976. Stream Survey Pinole Creek. Report dated May 5 and 6.

64. Scoppettone, G., and R. Curtis, CDFG. 1976. Stream Survey Tice Creek. Report dated July 12.

65. Scoppettone, G., R. Curtis, and K. R. Anderson, CDFG. 1976. Memo to Fisheries Management Region 3. Re: Fish 

Population Sampling, San Pablo Creek, Contra Costa County; June 4,1976. Dated June 22.

66. Setka, J., EBMUD. 2001. Electrofishing data from Pinole Creek below Pinole Valley Road Bridge, March 12, 2001.

67. Setka, J., EBMUD. 2002. Electrofishing data from Simas Creek, April 4, 2002.

68. Strohschein, W. E., CDFG. 1974a. Memo to Fisheries Management Region 3. Re: Fish Population Sampling, Rodeo 

Creek, Contra Costa County; February 14, 1974. Dated February 22.

69. Strohschein, W. E., CDFG. 1974b. Memo to Fisheries Management Region 3. Re: Fish Population Sampling, Rodeo 

Creek, Contra Costa County; March 20, 1974. Dated April 16.

70. Taylor, T. 1985. Aquatic Life, Mount Diablo State Park. Natural Heritage Section, California Department of Parks and 

Recreation, Resource Protection Division.

71. Thomas, G., Monk and Associates: U.S. Army Corp of Engineers. 2004. letter to G. Stern, NOAA Fisheries,. Re: Results 

of steelhead/rainbow trout (O. mykiss) rescue effort at the Urban Creeks Council, Alhambra Creek bank stabilization 

and restoration project. Martinez, California. Dated November 23, 2004.

72. Williamson, T., CDFG. 1990-1993. CDFG scientific collecting permit report forms and data sheets.

73. Young. 1978. Initial report of fish and wildlife loss. CDFG.
38

1. Alexander, P., EBRPD, telephone conversation with G. Becker, CEMAR, December 2, 2002.

2. Arnold, C., telephone conversation with G. Becker, CEMAR, October 29, 2002, regarding observations of fish in 

Pinole Creek.

3. Hale, J., Friends of Walnut Creek, telephone conversation with G. Becker, CEMAR, October 23, 2002, regarding 

observations of anadromous salmonids in Walnut Creek, 1992-2002.

4. Hale, J., telephone conversation with G. Becker, CEMAR, September 9, 2003, regarding anadromous salmonid 

observations in Contra Costa County streams tributary to the San Francisco Bay.

5. Hale, J., telephone conversation with G. Becker, CEMAR, September 29, 2003, regarding habitat observations in 

Contra Costa and Alameda Counties.

6. Hartwell, R., EBMUD, e-mail correspondence with G. Becker, CEMAR, August 28, 2003, regarding conversations 

with Roy English, EBMUD Ranger Supervisor (retired) for San Pablo Reservoir from 1977-2002 and conversations with 

V. Macchietto, EBMUD concessionaire at San Pablo Reservoir from 2002-2003.

7. Kozicki, N., CDFG, telephone conversation with G. Becker, CEMAR, October 23, 2002, regarding observations of O. 

mykiss in Lafayette Creek.

8. Leggitt, C., conversation with R. Leidy, 1976.

Personal Communications
39

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY MAPS

Historical status of Oncorhynchus mykiss in streams of Contra Costa County, Caliornia. 

Current status of Oncorhynchus mykiss in streams of Contra Costa County, Caliornia. 
40
45

ALAMEDA COUNTY

Codornices Creek Watershed

Codornices Creek drains an urbanized watershed of about 1.1 square miles. The creek is channelized or lies underground through 

a large portion of its 2.9-mile length. It flows west from the Berkeley Hills, entering central San Francisco Bay at the border of the 

cities of Albany and Berkeley.

Codornices Creek 

As part of a fish distribution study, three sites on Codornices Creek were sampled in July 1981 (Leidy 1984). No O. mykiss

were collected. 

In June 1996 a resident reported two “foot-long” O. mykiss just downstream of Stannage Avenue (Harvey 2003). Oncorhynchus 

mykiss (50-200 mm) have been observed regularly between the BART tracks and10th Avenue from 1997 to the present 

(Harvey 2003).

A group supporting urban creek restoration has been monitoring Codornices Creek since at least 1997, when trout were observed 

where the creek passes under the BART tracks. In November 1999, the group electrofished the creek and collected one O. mykiss

(S. Schwartz pers. comm.). Oncorhynchus mykiss juveniles and adults (to 300 mm) are apparently seen regularly throughout the 

year in several holes from just upstream from 9th Street to Monterey Street, and the population is believed to be increasing (S. 

Schwartz pers. comm.).

As part of a watershed restoration project, downstream migrant trapping for O. mykiss was conducted on Codornices Creek in 

April and May 2002. A total of 33 O. mykiss were trapped, including 29 YOY (<75 mm FL), one O. mykiss between 76 and 105 

mm FL, and three larger steelhead greater than 105 mm FL (Kier 2002).

Assessment: Codornices Creek likely supported O. mykiss historically. Oncorhynchus mykiss have been recorded in Codornices 

Creek since 1997. While habitat modification such as channelization has limited the amount of suitable habitat and created 

migration barriers that prevent access of O. mykiss to the upper watershed, successful reproduction occurs in the lower reaches 

of the creek. Although many of these fish are resident, anecdotal accounts suggest small numbers of anadromous spawners may 

sporadically enter the stream.

Strawberry Creek Watershed

Strawberry Creek drains a largely urbanized watershed. It flows west from the Oakland-Berkeley Hills, where it enters central San 

Francisco Bay near the Berkeley Marina. The Department of Fish and Game estimates that only 5,000 feet of the stream’s more 

than two-mile length flows above ground (Cleugh 2002). 
46

Strawberry Creek

Needham and Gard, in their classic study of geographic variation in coastal rainbow trout of California and Mexico, noted that 

Strawberry Creek on the Berkeley Campus contained steelhead runs originally (Needham and Gard 1959).

Assessment: Strawberry Creek historically supported O. mykiss before the cumulative effects of urbanization (e.g., pollution, 

channelization, etc.) contributed to the species’ extirpation from the watershed. The upper south fork of Strawberry Creek still 

provides fish habitat, some of which is suitable for O. mykiss; however, underground culverts in the lower watershed are complete 

barriers to upstream migration. A 2002 DFG report stated that obstacles to steelhead restoration in the watershed include 

frequent sewage spills and the lack of aboveground habitat (Cleugh 2002).

Temescal Creek Watershed

Temescal Creek is a 2.7-mile perennial stream that originates in the Oakland Hills. The dam forming Lake Temescal is a complete 

barrier to fish passage, dividing the creek into upper and lower sections. Below Lake Temescal, the creek is largely culverted as it 

passes through heavily urbanized portions of Oakland before entering central San Francisco Bay at the city of Emeryville.

Temescal Creek

In August 1856, at a meeting of members of the California Academy of Natural Sciences in San Francisco, Mr. D. E. Hough 

donated to the cabinet a specimen of Salmo rivularis (= O. mykiss) from Temescal Creek (Donations 1854-1862). No additional 

information was provided on the collection location or the morphology of the specimen. Trout are stocked in Lake Temescal, 

although successful reproduction in tributary areas has not been documented (P. Alexander pers. comm.).

Assessment: Similar to several other small streams flowing from the Berkeley-Oakland Hills, Temescal Creek supported viable 

populations of O. mykiss before the cumulative effects of urbanization led to the species’ extirpation from the watershed. Temescal 

Creek upstream from Lake Temescal and Highway 13 contains short, remnant reaches of habitat suitable for O. mykiss. However, 

underground culverts and the dam at Lake Temescal in the lower watershed serve as complete barriers to upstream migration.

Glen Echo Creek Watershed

The headwaters of Glen Echo Creek are in the Oakland Hills upstream of Blair Park. The creek has been placed in culverts 

under the park, under Mountain View Cemetery, and at points in the lower watershed. It enters Lake Merritt before joining the 

Oakland Estuary.

Glen Echo Creek 

Glen Echo Creek was sampled in June 1998 as part of an aquatic resource inventory for the city of Oakland. No O. mykiss were 

found (Hagar and Demgen 1998).
47

Assessment: Insufficient information is available to determine the historical status of anadromous salmonids in the Glen Echo 

Creek watershed. It is likely that small numbers of O. mykiss utilized the system historically, but that habitat degradation led to 

the species’ extirpation from the drainage.

Sausal Creek Watershed

Sausal Creek consists of approximately 5.1 miles of stream channel. The creek has two main tributaries in the Oakland Hills, 

Shephard Creek draining Shepard Canyon, and Palo Seco Creek, which originates in Joaquin Miller Park. Although main stem 

Sausal Creek is largely channelized, an approximately two-mile reach is above ground in the vicinity of Dimond Canyon Park. 

Sausal Creek enters central San Francisco Bay at the Oakland/Alameda Estuary near the Fruitvale Avenue Bridge.

Sausal Creek

As part of a fish distribution study, three Sausal Creek sites were sampled in July 1981. No fish were collected (Leidy 1984). 

The above ground portions of Sausal Creek were surveyed in June 1998 as part of an aquatic resource inventory for the city of 

Oakland. No O. mykiss were found. The survey report concluded that the culvert under Highway 13 was impassable for upstream 

movement of fish (Hagar and Demgen 1998). A subsequent electrofishing survey from Dimond Canyon Park upstream into Palo 

Seco Creek (to the Montclair golf course) and Shephard Creek along Scout Road did not find O. mykiss in Sausal Creek (Lowe 

2000).

In November 1999, a dead O. mykiss (est. TL 100 mm) was found upstream of the Leimert Boulevard Bridge (Richardson 2000). 

EBRPD staff concluded that successful propagation had occurred since the 1998 survey (P. Alexander pers. comm.).

Since then, numerous sightings of O. mykiss have occurred. A 125 mm O. mykiss was observed at El Centro Avenue within 

Dimond Canyon Park in May 2000. In August 2000, an approximately 300 mm TL O. mykiss was observed in the same location 

(Friends of Sausal Creek 2002; Lowe 2000). Two “large” O. mykiss were observed at El Centro Avenue on numerous occasions 

throughout the spring and summer of 2001 (Friends of Sausal Creek 2002). In addition, 12 juvenile O. mykiss (~50 mm TL) and 

a single 200 mm O. mykiss were noted within Dimond Canyon Park during a June 2001 fish survey conducted by the Friends 

of Sausal Creek. Three adult O. mykiss (300+ mm, 330 mm, 355 mm TL) were found dead on different occasions between 

November 2001 and February 2002; three O. mykiss (125-230 mm TL) were observed at El Centro Avenue in June 2002 (Friends 

of Sausal Creek 2002; Lowe 2000).

DFG conducted a partial survey of Sausal Creek in November 2001, but ended the survey “due to low potential to restore 

salmonids” (Cleugh 2002). The Department of Fish and Game staff apparently deemed the quality of the habitat in Sausal Creek 

to be insufficient to support an O. mykiss population.

Shepherd Creek

Shepard Creek was surveyed in June 1998 as part of an aquatic resources inventory of Oakland streams. A 240 mm O. mykiss

was collected downstream of the Scout Road crossing, and was deemed to be of hatchery origin due to the lack of a reproducing 

population in the stream (Hagar and Demgen 1998). A subsequent electrofishing survey from Dimond Canyon Park upstream 
48

into Palo Seco Creek (to the Montclair golf course) and Shephard Creek along Scout Road did not find O. mykiss in Shephard 

Creek (Lowe 2000).

Palo Seco Creek

Although portions of the upper watershed of Palo Seco Creek are relatively undeveloped, upstream migration from lower reaches 

of Sausal Creek is believed to be prevented by a culvert under the Montclair Golf Club grounds (Hagar and Demgen 1998).

In October 1997, EBRPD reported finding 15 juvenile O. mykiss in Palo Seco Creek (P. Alexander pers. comm.). During 

an aquatic resources inventory in June 1998, four O. mykiss (150-200 mm TL) were observed in Palo Seco Creek near Palos 

Colorados trailhead (Hagar and Demgen 1998). The survey report noted that the O. mykiss “generally gave the appearance of wild 

fish” (Hagar and Demgen 1998, p. 21). Another wild O. mykiss (190 mm TL) was found downstream from Highway 13 in 1998 

(Lowe 2000). In June 2000, a 100-125 mm TL trout was spotted in Palo Seco Creek by a bird monitoring team, and two trout 

(~50 mm, ~100 mm TL) were observed in June 2001 during a fish survey.

Assessment: Sausal Creek historically supported O. mykiss, and it appears that currently wild fish may persist in the upper 

watershed, although individuals with hatchery characteristics have been found in the population as well. There is no evidence 

of anadromy. Barriers existing near the Montclair Golf Course separate the lower and upper watershed in terms of salmonid 

populations. An assessment of downstream barriers within urbanized Oakland is recommended for this drainage.

Peralta Creek Watershed

Peralta Creek originates in the Oakland hills and has a watershed consisting of low- and high-density urban residential and 

commercial areas (Hagar and Demgen 1998). The stream enters a culvert under Wisconsin Avenue that may be a barrier to 

upstream migration of fish, and additional culverted and channelized portions of the creek are found downstream of this point 

that may impede migration (Hagar and Demgen 1998).

Peralta Creek

As part of a fish distribution study, one site was sampled on upper Peralta Creek in July 1981. No fish were collected 

(Leidy 1984).

Peralta Creek was surveyed in June 1998 from Wisconsin Avenue upstream to near Jordan Avenue as part of an aquatic resource 

inventory of Oakland streams. No fish were seen during the survey (Hagar and Demgen 1998).

Assessment: Insufficient information is available to assess the historical occurrence of anadromous salmonids in the Peralta Creek 

watershed. Oncorhynchus mykiss has not been seen in the creek during the surveys for which we have records, and we believe that 

the species is absent from the drainage.
49

Lion Creek Watershed

Lion Creek originates in the Oakland Hills, flowing largely through culverts and channels to its mouth at San Leandro Bay. A 

culvert under Highway 13 is believed to be a barrier to upstream fish migration (Hagar and Demgen 1998).

Lion Creek

Lion Creek was electrofished during June 1998 from the upper end of the culvert under Highway 13 upstream for a distance of 

approximately 240 meters, extending to the culvert emerging from under Carson Road. No fish were collected or observed (Hagar 

and Demgen 1998). A city of Oakland employee reported seeing three trout in Lion Creek, probably in 1997. Two of the O. 

mykiss were adults and the third fish measured 100-125 mm TL (Trapp 1997).

Horseshoe Creek

Horseshoe Creek joins Lion Creek under Highway 13. The uppermost 0.7 miles of Horseshoe Creek on the Merritt College 

campus are channelized in an underground culvert (Hagar and Demgen 1998).

Electrofishing was performed for an aquatic resources inventory of Oakland streams in June 1998. A pool just below Mountain 

Boulevard produced ten O. mykiss (221-295 mm FL) (Hagar and Demgen 1998). Eroded dorsal fins on two of the fish suggested 

a hatchery origin. Further upstream, eight O. mykiss (168-262 mm) were captured in a 308-meter reach (Hagar and Demgen 

1998). The largest of these fish also bore eroded pectoral, dorsal and caudal fins, again suggesting a hatchery origin. All other fish 

“had the appearance of wild stream fish” (Hagar and Demgen 1998, p. 11).

Chimes Creek

Chimes Creek extends from the Oakland Hills and under Highway 13. It is a tributary to Lion Creek near Seminary and 

MacArthur Boulevard (Demgen 1998 # 765). A June 1998 visual survey along about 270 meters of Chimes Creek conducted 

on behalf of the city of Oakland found no fish and the study report concluded that “the stream may be too small to support fish 

species” (Hagar and Demgen 1998).

Assessment: We conclude that the Lion Creek watershed historically supported anadromous O. mykiss. Suitable habitat upstream 

from Highway 13 in the Oakland Hills supports a small, isolated and apparently self-sustaining population of what may be 

wild O. mykiss, originally derived from steelhead. Further, if the trout in Horseshoe Creek are not of hatchery origin then they 

represent a “unique and valuable resource” (Hagar and Demgen 1998, p. 2). Extensive channelization and culverting of Lion 

Creek between the Bay and Horseshoe Creek near Highway 13 likely serve as barriers to migrating steelhead, although an 

assessment of possible downstream barriers is recommended (Hagar and Demgen 1998).

Arroyo Viejo Watershed

Arroyo Viejo drains a portion of the Oakland hills including low-density residential areas and park land in the upper reaches and 

highly urbanized lands in the lower drainage. The creek enters the San Francisco Estuary near San Leandro Bay.
50

Arroyo Viejo

As part of a fish distribution study, four Arroyo Viejo sites were sampled in July 1981. No salmonids were collected (Leidy 1984).

Two branches of Arroyo Viejo were surveyed in June 1998 as part of an aquatic resources inventory of Oakland streams. The 

main branch survey was upstream 1.2 miles from the Oakland Zoo, while the “Country Club” branch survey began at Calafia 

Avenue and was conducted upstream to the culvert at the base of Oak Hill Road. No fish were seen during the survey (Hagar and 

Demgen 1998).

Assessment: Arroyo Viejo likely historically supported O. mykiss given suitable remnant habitats remaining in the upper 

watershed above Highway 13. A future assessment of downstream barriers within urbanized Oakland and sampling of the upper 

watershed are recommended.

San Leandro Creek Watershed

San Leandro Creek is located on the eastern side of the Berkeley-San Leandro Hills and western slopes of Rocky Ridge near 

Moraga. The watershed is 44 square miles including areas drained by Moraga, Indian, Redwood, Buckhorn, Kaiser, Miller, and 

Grass Valley creeks. The construction of Chabot Reservoir in 1874-5 at approximately RM 6 completely blocked steelhead 

migration to these tributaries. Construction of Upper San Leandro Reservoir in 1926 further isolated the tributaries with the 

exception of Grass Valley Creek. Below Chabot Reservoir, San Leandro Creek passes through the highly urbanized San Leandro, 

entering central San Francisco Bay at the southern end of the Oakland Estuary.

San Leandro Creek

San Leandro Creek flows from its headwaters about five miles to Upper San Leandro Reservoir. From Upper San Leandro 

Reservoir the creek runs another 3.5 miles to Lake Chabot. San Leandro Creek consists of six miles of channel below Lake 

Chabot, with perennial flow occurring from Chabot Dam downstream approximately one mile to near Bancroft Street. 

In March 1855, Dr. W.P. Gibbons, founder of the California Academy of Sciences described and named a new coastal variety 

of rainbow trout as Salmo iridia (later changed to irideus, Latin for rainbow) based on three specimens from San Leandro Creek 

(Ayres 1855).

The Sportsman Gazetteer for 1877 reported that rainbow trout could be caught at “San Leandro” immediately upstream from the 

waterworks (Hallock 1877). The reference likely pertains to San Leandro Creek above Lake Chabot.

A February 1957 letter from Willis Evans, DFG, to Dr. Paul Needham, U. C. Berkeley, noted that DFG Warden George Smalley, 

a 30-year resident of the San Leandro Creek area, reported that runs of steelhead occurred in San Leandro Creek “in the early 

days” (Evans 1957). Mr. Evans further noted that after the completion of Upper San Leandro Reservoir, a run persisted to the 

base of the dam for many years (Evans 1957). Needham and Gard, in their 1959 study of geographic variation in coastal rainbow 

trout of California and Mexico, noted that San Leandro Creek originally supported steelhead runs (Needham and Gard 1959).
51

A study of O. mykiss spawning activity in the San Leandro Creek watershed involved weekly visual observations of fish 

between April and September 1972. A San Leandro Creek site consisted of a 90-meter reach located upstream from Upper San 

Leandro Reservoir near the culvert immediately downstream from the intersection of Pinehurst and Canyon roads. Qualitative 

observations along the study section verified the presence of O. mykiss fry, and adults were seen throughout the study period 

(Arnold 1973).

In August 1975, DFG visually surveyed 6.2 miles of San Leandro Creek from the mouth to Lake Chabot. In the survey report, 

DFG noted that the study reach supported a remnant steelhead run, which was considered the only known viable steelhead 

trout population on the east shore of San Francisco Bay (Curtis and Scoppettone 1975a). The report also stated that a resident 

rainbow trout population existed upstream from Lake Chabot. The survey found numerous 50-75 mm steelhead trout between 

Lake Chabot to approximately 100 yards downstream from Interstate 580 (Curtis and Scoppettone 1975a). Also, the report 

cited accounts by local anglers of age 1+ and 2+ steelhead taken frequently. The report noted a four-foot high flashboard barrier 

0.3miles upstream from Interstate 580 that is passable for steelhead during winter flows with the flashboards removed. The survey 

observed that spawning habitat was “fair” and shelter “good” and further concluded that San Leandro Creek should be managed 

to protect the remnant steelhead resource, including obtaining minimum in-stream releases from Lake Chabot (Curtis and 

Scoppettone 1975a).

As part of fish a distribution study, ten sites were sampled on San Leandro Creek during July and August 1981. Approximately 

100 feet downstream from the Chabot dam spillway, seven O. mykiss ranging from 42-106 mm FL, and one fish of 311 mm FL, 

were collected (Leidy 1981-1984, 1984). Approximately 0.45 miles upstream from the Canyon post office, 27 O. mykiss (40-68 

mm FL) were collected. At a site approximately 0.5 miles upstream from Upper San Leandro Reservoir, 12 YOY O. mykiss (33-72 

mm FL) and one larger fish (212 mm FL) were collected from a series of isolated pools. No O. mykiss were found at seven sampled 

sites near and downstream from MacArthur Boulevard and Interstate 880 (Leidy 1981-1984, 1984).

DFG surveyed San Leandro Creek between Interstate 880 and 2.3 miles above Lake Chabot in December 1982 (Berthelsen 

1982). Two O. mykiss (~300 mm TL) were observed under the Interstate 880 overpass and were presumed to have been washed 

out of Lake Chabot (Berthelsen 1982). The survey report noted that San Leandro Creek below Lake Chabot supported the last 

known steelhead run on the east shore of San Francisco Bay and that rainbow trout were known to move up the creek from Lake 

Chabot. The report concluded that Lower San Leandro Creek appeared to provide good spawning habitat for steelhead except for 

siltation problems. It further recommended investigating summer flow releases into the creek from Upper San Leandro Reservoir 

(Berthelsen 1982).

In September 1983, EBRPD electrofished three upper San Leandro Creek reaches. The first reach, located 100 yards downstream 

from the Indian Creek confluence, yielded 25 O. mykiss including YOY (not measured) and adults to 178 mm FL (Alexander 

1984a). Sampling in various pools along the creek adjacent to Pinehurst Road produced 26 trout, including YOY (not measured) 

and adults to 198 mm FL. The third reach was more than 300 yards below a complete barrier to fish passage at the abandoned 

Southern Pacific railroad crossing. This reach yielded three O. mykiss year classes, including “many” YOY (not measured), age 1+ 

(>15), and age 2+ (8: 125-200 mm FL) (Alexander 1984a).

In April and June 1984, EBRPD electrofished two reaches on upper San Leandro Creek. The first site, a 90-meter reach upstream 

from the intersection of Pinehurst and Moraga roads produced nine O. mykiss (89-369 mm FL). The second site, a single pool 

above Canyon Road at RM 4.0, produced 13 trout (89-445 mm FL) (Alexander 1984b).
52

During June 1986, EBRPD electrofished upper San Leandro Creek at three locations. Station 1, a 90-meter reach upstream of 

Pinehurst Road did not produce any O. mykiss, and staff noted that a culvert under Pinehurst Road was a barrier to upstream fish 

passage (Alexander 1984b). At stations 2 and 3, reaches downstream from Pinehurst Road, abundant YOY O. mykiss and adults 

(14: <200 mm FL; 1: 400-600 mm TL) were found (Alexander 1987).

In June 1989, EBMUD observed abundant O. mykiss YOY at five different locations on upper San Leandro Creek, including 

upstream from “The Farm”, at McCosker Ranch Road, downstream from McCosker Ranch Road, immediately upstream from 

the Canyon Post Office, at Canyon School, and at the Redwood Trail crossing (Hagar 1989a). During July 1989, EBMUD 

followed up with an electrofishing survey at two sites and visual surveys at several other locations. YOY were abundant at all 

locations. At the Redwood Trail crossing, 37 YOY were caught but not measured (Hagar 1989a). At Canyon School, 16 YOY (not 

measured) and nine older O. mykiss (101-337 mm FL) were caught (Hagar 1989a).

From March through July 1990, EBMUD trapped upstream- and downstream-migrating O. mykiss in tributaries of the upper San 

Leandro Creek watershed. Within upper San Leandro Creek, the trapping effort found 1,524 individuals captured and measured, 

yielding the following age class distribution: 1,316 YOY, 141 juveniles and 67 adults (EBMUD 1991). Age determinations 

were made by analyzing scales from a sample of the population, leading the researchers to characterize YOY as 70 mm TL or 

below, juveniles as 71-220 mm TL, and adults as fish larger than 220 mm TL. The study found that more than 90% of the adult 

spawners, and YOY and older juvenile trout, in the study area were trapped in San Leandro Creek (EBMUD 1991).

In July and August 1990, EBRPD electrofished 28 randomly chosen sites on upper San Leandro Creek in conjunction with 

habitat surveys to estimate the total O. mykiss population size. Oncorhynchus mykiss sampled had a mean length of 62 mm TL 

(Holsinger et al. 1991). Densities ranged from 4-237 fish per 86 square meters, and the O. mykiss population in San Leandro 

Creek was estimated at between approximately 6,000-11,000 individuals (Holsinger et al. 1991).

During March 1993, EBMUD electrofished three sites on San Leandro Creek from immediately downstream from the spillway 

of upper San Leandro Reservoir at the confluence with Miller Creek downstream to approximately 400 yards upstream from the 

Willow Park Golf Course. No O. mykiss were caught or observed (Hartwell 1993).

In June 1993, Leidy electrofished three sites on San Leandro Creek. One site was below Chabot Reservoir immediately 

downstream from the bridge at the entrance to San Leandro City Park, where Leidy collected four O. mykiss (68-82 mm FL) 

(Leidy 2002). Leidy also electrofished three sites on San Leandro Creek above upper San Leandro Reservoir. In one reach 

approximately 50 meters downstream from the confluence of Indian Creek, he caught 23 O. mykiss (42-82 mm FL). In the reach 

immediately downstream from this station, also downstream from a major intersecting fire road culvert along Pinehurst Road, 

Leidy caught 41 O. mykiss (26-110 mm FL) and one larger O. mykiss (154 mm FL) which was an age 1+ fish (Leidy 2002). At a 

site 0.3 miles upstream from the lower Pinehurst Road crossing he caught 24 O. mykiss (33-123 mm FL).

In February 1997, Leidy electrofished a 30 meter reach on lower San Leandro Creek centered on the footbridge upstream of East 

14th Street and the school in San Leandro. He caught one O. mykiss (465 mm FL) that exhibited spawning coloration (Leidy 

2002). Results of the EBMUD sampling of San Leandro Creek upstream of Upper San Leandro Reservoir between 1996 and 

2001 are offered in Table IV-1.
53

Table IV-1. EBMUD O. mykiss sampling results from San Leandro Creek, 1996-2001

Date No. Size

(mm)

Date No. Size

(mm)

June 1996 9 40-142 April 1999 12 119-370

Sept. 1997 59 43-189 July 1999 66 26-215

June 1998 18 34-175 Feb. 2001 2 410-420

Dec. 1998 20 45-215 Feb. 2001 5 331-490

Dec. 1998 9 48-139

(Source: Hartwell 2002b; Setka 2003c)

EBMUD conducted electrofishing on San Leandro Creek below Chabot Dam on three dates in 2000. All surveys occurred at San 

Leandro City Park. In April 2000, 32 O. mykiss (188-350 mm) were collected. Thirteen O. mykiss (73-220 mm) were collected 

in October, one of which displayed smolt characteristics. In December, 12 O. mykiss (74-218 mm) were collected, with two 

displaying smolt characteristics (Setka 2000).

In November 2001, DFG surveyed the San Leandro Creek channel below Lake Chabot and identified a possible migration barrier 

consisting of a four-foot concrete weir off Marlow Avenue, 0.3 miles upstream from Interstate 80 (Cleugh 2002).

Grass Valley Creek

Grass Valley Creek flows into the northern-most arm of Lake Chabot. EBRPD staff noted O. mykiss in this creek, and speculated 

that their likely source was introduced fish of hatchery origin (P. Alexander pers. comm.).

Miller Creek

In March 1993, EBMUD electrofished the lower 98 meters of Miller Creek above its confluence with San Leandro Creek. No O. 

mykiss were caught or observed (Hartwell 1993).

Kaiser Creek

Kaiser Creek is a tributary of Upper San Leandro Reservoir. In November 1983, EBRPD electrofished Kaiser Creek from the 

area surrounding its confluence with Upper San Leandro Reservoir upstream approximately 60 meters. Staff from EDRPD 

also electrofished the upper sections of the creek. Two O. mykiss were caught at each sampling site (79 and 89 mm and 183 and 

188 mm, respectively) (Alexander 1984a). However, the possibility exists that the creek sampled was actually Buckhorn Creek 

(Alexander 1988).

During May 1984, EBRPD electrofished two Kaiser Creek locations. Four O. mykiss YOY (38-42 mm FL) were collected within 

a 400-meter reach upstream from the “Old Orchard” (Alexander 1984b). Fifteen individuals from two age classes (13 YOY; 2 1+: 

<220 mm FL) were collected 0.25 miles upstream from the “Old Orchard” reach, immediately downstream from a debris dam 

(Alexander 1984b).
54

In August 1986, EBMUD obtained 52 yearling O. mykiss from Kaiser Creek for genetic analysis. Allele frequencies for 17 

biochemical marker-loci were compared between the Kaiser Creek fish and O. mykiss from 13 present and former California 

steelhead streams including Redwood Creek. The study report stated that O. mykiss from Redwood and Kaiser creeks represents 

a unique population of non-hybridized coastal rainbow trout that has been isolated from migrating steelhead for over 112 years 

(i.e., since construction of Chabot Dam in 1875) (Bentley and Gall undated; Gall et al. 1990).

In June 1989, Jeff Hagar, a consulting fisheries biologist to EBRPD, sampled three sites on Kaiser Creek. Adult O. mykiss (2: 

337, 466 mm FL) were caught upstream from the confluence with Buckhorn Creek, and downstream from the confluence with 

Callahan Creek (2: 221, 380 mm FL) (Hagar 1989a). YOY O. mykiss (2: 45, 55 mm FL) also were sampled at the Callahan Creek 

site, indicating that trout were able to spawn successfully despite drought conditions (Hagar 1989a).

From March through July 1990, EBRPD trapped migrating O. mykiss in several tributaries to Upper San Leandro Reservoir. 

Although 1,670 O. mykiss were collected in other tributaries, none were caught in Kaiser Creek (EBMUD 1991). The study 

report stated that trout occurred in Kaiser Creek though none utilized the creek during the study period (EBMUD 1991).

In July and August 1990, EBRPD electrofished 43 randomly chosen sites on Kaiser Creek in conjunction with habitat surveys 

to estimate the total O. mykiss population size. Oncorhynchus mykiss sampled had a mean length of 176 mm TL (Holsinger et al. 

1991). Densities ranged from 3-25 per 86 square meters, and the O. mykiss population in Kaiser Creek was estimated to be 35-68 

individuals (Holsinger et al. 1991).

Staff from EBRPD electrofished Kaiser Creek on seven occasions between March 1998 and January 2000. Oncorhynchus mykiss 

were found at six locations throughout the watershed, with sizes ranging from 35-308 mm. Multiple age classes were identified in 

each year (Setka 2003a).

Buckhorn Creek

Buckhorn Creek is a tributary of Upper San Leandro Reservoir. In November 1983, EBRPD electrofished what staff thought was 

Kaiser Creek (but may have been Buckhorn Creek) at its mouth and also in its upper sections. Two O. mykiss were caught near the 

mouth (79 and 89 mm), and two O. mykiss were caught in the upper sections (183 and 188 mm) (Alexander 1984a, 1988).

In June 1989, DFG electrofished two sites on Buckhorn Creek, 0.3 miles upstream and 0.2 miles downstream from “Buckhorn 

Barn.” No fish were observed or collected (Hagar 1989a). The survey report concluded that Buckhorn Creek did not provide 

suitable summer habitat conditions for juvenile and older trout during the on-going drought (Hagar 1989a).

From March through July 1990, EBRPD trapped upstream and downstream migrating O. mykiss in tributaries to Upper San 

Leandro Reservoir. Although 1,670 O. mykiss were collected in other tributaries, none were caught in Buckhorn Creek (EBMUD 

1991). The study report concluded that Buckhorn Creek did not support trout, especially in dry years (EBMUD 1991). During 

July and August 1990, EBRPD electrofished two sites on Buckhorn Creek in conjunction with habitat surveys to determine the 

total O. mykiss population size. No O. mykiss were caught and the total population in Buckhorn Creek was estimated to be zero 

(Holsinger et al. 1991).
55

EBMUD staff visually observed O. mykiss spawning in the lower portions of the Buckhorn Creek in winter 2001-2002<Setka, 

2003 #25>. While successful reproduction may occur in some years, this tributary is believed to have limited habitat value, due to 

low flows in most water years, and high levels of sedimentation occurring in the basin (J. Setka pers. comm.).

Redwood Creek

Redwood Creek is a tributary of Upper San Leandro Reservoir and is formed by two tributaries, west branch and east branch, 

which originate in Redwood Regional Park. A study of O. mykiss spawning activity in the San Leandro Creek watershed involved 

weekly visual observations of fish between April and September 1972. A Redwood Creek site consisted of a 90-meter reach 

located upstream from Upper San Leandro Reservoir beginning at the culvert at the intersection of Pinehurst and Redwood 

roads. Adult and fingerling O. mykiss were noted between the intersection of Pinehurst and Redwood roads and Redwood Park 

throughout the study period (Arnold 1973).

In March 1978, EBRPD and DFG electrofished several reaches of Redwood Creek in Redwood Regional Park. Five O. mykiss

were collected (351–399 mm FL) downstream of a barrier formed by a masonry bridge with an inoperative fish ladder (Paulsen et 

al. 1978b).

In June 1978, EBRPD and DFG electrofished two reaches of Redwood Creek immediately downstream from the Redwood Creek 

Fire Station on Redwood Road. One 45-meter reach yielded 38 O. mykiss (25-64 mm FL) (Paulsen et al. 1978a). The other 45-

meter reach yielded 64 O. mykiss (23–65 mm FL). According to the study report, the estimated O. mykiss density in the main fork 

of Redwood Creek was 180 fish per 45 meters of stream. The report concluded that Redwood Creek below the masonry 

road bridge crossing within Redwood Regional Park was “excellent” nursery and spawning habitat for rainbow trout (Paulsen et 

al. 1978a).

In March 1979, DFG, EBRPD and CALTROUT electrofished seven reaches in the Redwood Creek watershed above Upper San 

Leandro Reservoir to verify the presence of spawning adult O. mykiss. Young of the year O. mykiss were observed in all sampled 

reaches (23: 58-127 mm FL) (Paulsen 1979). Adults were found below the masonry road crossing to Redwood Regional Park, 

and in the west fork (11: 201-445 FL) (Paulsen 1979).

In April 1979, DFG and EBRPD electrofished a 420 meter reach of Redwood Creek upstream from the mouth at Upper San 

Leandro Reservoir. One sexually mature O. mykiss (404 mm) was collected as well as 70 juveniles (76-170 mm FL) (Paulsen 

1979). In March 1980, DFG and EBRPD electrofished five sites in Redwood Creek as part of an on-going monitoring program 

on spawning success of adfluvial rainbow trout using the Upper San Leandro Reservoir. The sampling documented 68 O. mykiss

ranging in size from 76-437 mm FL (Paulsen 1980).

In April 1981, DFG and EBRPD electrofished three stations on Redwood Creek and the West Fork of Redwood Creek upstream 

from Upper San Leandro Reservoir. The first sampling station on Redwood Creek from the masonry bridge to the confluence 

with the West Fork yielded 33 fish (51-381 mm FL) (Burger 1981). A second station on Redwood Creek from Pinehurst Road 

upstream to the confluence of the West Fork produced 108 fish (66-417 mm FL). The station on the West Fork adjacent to 

Redwood Road near Big Springs yielded 17 trout (94-381 mm FL). Three stations yielded a total of 158 O. mykiss representing 

5-year classes according to scale analyses (66-417 mm FL). The final report concluded that Redwood Creek had value as a nursery 
56

for immature fish as well as providing spawning habitat. Summer “carryover” of young rainbow trout in isolated pools was 

considered to be good (Burger 1981).

As part of a fish distribution study, Redwood Creek was sampled by seine in August 1981. Oncorhynchus mykiss (14: 41-127 

mm FL) was confined to one of five isolated pools sampled 3.7 miles downstream from the junction of Redwood and Pinehurst 

Roads (Leidy 1984). Forty-six O. mykiss (22-62 mm FL) along with two larger O. mykiss (146, 146 mm FL) were found in the 

pool immediately below the second bridge crossing within the main entrance to Redwood Regional Park. Oncorhynchus mykiss

also were found in pools at the first upstream crossing above the main park entrance (16: 40-130 mm FL), immediately above the 

parking lot bridge at the McDonald Trail entrance (27: 35-76 mm FL), at the bridge 0.8 miles downstream from the junction of 

Skyline and Redwood Road (10: 42-80mm FL), and on the McDonald Branch of Redwood Creek 0.25 miles upstream from its 

confluence with main stem Redwood Creek (3: 40, 52, 56 mm FL) (Leidy 1984).

Redwood Creek upstream of Upper San Leandro Reservoir was sampled by DFG and EBRPD in April 1982. Eight sites were 

electrofished from Redwood Road marker 2.48 upstream to the confluence of the east and west branches, and up the north 

branch to the masonry bridge, yielding 37 O. mykiss ranging from 29-438 mm FL (Alexander 1982). Scale analysis later found the 

following relationship between age and size: 1+, 153.5 mm; 2+, 191.3 mm; and, 3+, 291.5 mm. Only one age 4+ individual (328 

mm) and one age 5+ (438 mm) individual were analyzed (Alexander 1982).

In September 1983, EBRPD electrofished Redwood Creek to procure O. mykiss for stocking into Wildcat Creek within Tilden 

Regional Park. An estimated 30-40 percent of “trout bearing areas” within Redwood Creek were shocked, yielding 615 individuals 

(Alexander 1984a).

In April 1984, the EBRPD and DFG electrofished Redwood Creek at five locations below and three locations above a newly 

installed Denil fishway. Results are listed in Table IV-2.
57

 Table IV-2. EBRPD and DFG Redwood Creek O. mykiss sampling results, April 1984

Location Number Juveniles

(number YOY)

Size Range

(mm FL)

Main stem

Pinehurst and Redwood roads 24 

(1)

45-156

Below fire station 38 95-358

Fire station to east and west branch confluence 13

(“several”)

38-332

East branch

Confluence up to masonry bridge 19 83-297

Below and in fishway 3 142-168

Above fishway near Laurel Grove 1

(10)

317

At old church 7 84-190

West branch

At Grass Valley water tank tributary 27

(“many”)

81-320

 (Source: Alexander 1984b).

In October 1984, EBRPD obtained 53 yearling O. mykiss from Redwood Creek for genetic analysis. As discussed in the Kaiser 

Creek section, above, these fish appeared to be non-hybridized descendants of coastal O. mykiss (Bentley and Gall undated; Gall et 

al. 1990).

In April 1985, DFG and EBRPD electrofished five Redwood Creek stations upstream of Upper San Leandro Reservoir. Sampling 

stations were along Redwood Road, as well as in the east branch within Redwood Regional Park. A total of 68 O. mykiss were 

collected and numerous fry were observed at all stations sampled (Burger 1986). Age/length analysis based on scale samples from 

ten O. mykiss revealed the following mean lengths for each age class: 1+, 132 mm FL; 2+, 332 mm FL; and, 3+, 356 mm FL 

(Burger 1986).

In June 1986, EBRPD electrofished three sites on Redwood Creek. One site located in the east branch near the Prince Road 

intersection within Redwood Regional Park produced 45 YOY and ten adults (100-180 mm FL) (Alexander 1987). A second site 

located on the west branch at Redwood Road yielded abundant YOY and six adults (105-360 mm FL). The third site in a nearby 

pool produced four adults (105-335 mm FL) (Alexander 1987).

In July 1989, EBRPD electrofished seven sites on Redwood Creek upstream from upper San Leandro Reservoir. The total 

collection of O. mykiss from pools at these locations was approximately 193 individuals representing at least three age classes 

(Hagar and English 1989). Sampling in May 1990 by EBRPD at the same stations yielded 35 O. mykiss likely consisting of YOY, 

1+ and 2+ fish (Hagar and English 1990).
58

From March through July 1990, EBRPD trapped upstream and downstream migrating O. mykiss in Redwood Creek upstream of 

San Leandro Reservoir. According to the trapping report, 144 individuals were captured and measured, and 125 fish (almost 

87 percent) were found to be downstream-migrating juveniles. Only eight adults were captured and only five of these fish 

were upstream migrating. The study report cited a possible near failure of trout reproduction in Redwood Creek in 1990 

(EBMUD 1991).

In July and August 1990, EBRPD electrofished 44 randomly chosen sites on Redwood Creek in conjunction with habitat surveys 

to estimate the total O. mykiss population size. Oncorhynchus mykiss sampled had a mean TL of 133 mm (Holsinger et al. 1991). 

Densities ranged from 4-74 fish per 86 square meters, and the O. mykiss population in Redwood Creek was estimated to be 266-

484 individuals in the west branch and 50-152 in the east branch (Holsinger et al. 1991).

Leidy electrofished three stations on Redwood Creek in June 1993. Thirty-nine O. mykiss (33-90 mm FL) were caught in a 42 

meter reach at the junction of Redwood Road and Pinehurst Road, three O. mykiss (41, 45, 48 mm) in the 30 meter reach at the 

Old Church picnic site in Redwood Regional Park, and 61 O. mykiss (38-82 mm FL) in the 54 meter reach downstream from the 

culvert at the East Bay/Skyline Trail intersection with Redwood Road (Leidy 2002).

In July and August 1994, EBMUD electrofished three stations on Redwood Creek upstream of upper San Leandro Reservoir. 

Electrofishing on the main stem and north fork yielded 52 O. mykiss (39-161 mm FL). A follow-up visual survey of the same 

reach found an estimated 495 YOY. Electrofishing on the west fork yielded 59 O. mykiss (48-187 mm FL) (EBMUD 1994).

Staff from EBRPD electrofished Redwood Creek on five occasions between March 1999 and April 2002. Oncorhynchus mykiss 

were found at four locations upstream from upper San Leandro Reservoir, with sizes ranging from 28-445 mm. Multiple age 

classes were observed in each year (Setka 2003b).

Moraga Creek

Moraga Creek is a tributary of Upper San Leandro Reservoir and is formed by three branches that together drain the suburbanized Moraga Valley. In August and September1974, DFG electrofished eight sites on the north and six sites on the west 

branch of Moraga Creek from their confluence upstream. No O. mykiss were caught or observed. The survey report concluded 

that the stream reaches observed did not appear to provide good spawning or nursery habitat for salmonids (Strohschein and 

Anderson 1974).

As part of a fish distribution study, ten sites on Moraga Creek were sampled by seine in August 1981. No O. mykiss were found 

(Leidy 1984). In June 1987, DFG electrofished Moraga Creek near Miramonte High School. The survey collected 57 O. mykiss

ranging in size from 25-275 mm FL. Many of the fish were characterized as YOY, and the largest fish was determined to be age 2+ 

(Gray 1987a).

From March through July 1990, EBRPD trapped migrating fish in the tributaries to San Leandro Reservoir. Water delivery 

operations and possibly chlorination activities made results obtained in Moraga Creek unreliable for characterizing typical 

O. mykiss use of the creek. Two individuals were trapped and dead and five O. mykiss individuals were noted outside the trap 

(EBMUD 1991). In July and August 1990, EBRPD electrofished several sites on Moraga Creek to determine fish species 

composition. Five O. mykiss were caught with a mean length of 114 mm TL (Holsinger et al. 1991).
59

An EBMUD memo from March 1992 included a photograph of a 445 mm O. mykiss caught in Moraga Creek adjacent to 

Miramonte High School (English 1992). EBMUD sampled Moraga Creek upstream of Upper San Leandro Reservoir in June 

1999, finding seven O. mykiss (50-195 mm FL), and in December 2000, when 13 O. mykiss (54-152 mm FL) were collected 

(Hartwell 2002a).

Indian Creek

Indian Creek flows primarily southeast, parallel to San Leandro Creek, before turning to merge with San Leandro Creek 

approximately 0.5 miles upstream from Upper San Leandro Reservoir. In August 1981, a dipnet and seine survey of Indian Creek 

found one living O. mykiss (172 mm FL) and one dead O. mykiss (140 mm) in an isolated pool immediately upstream from the 

confluence with San Leandro Creek (Leidy 1984). A second sampling site approximately 0.5 miles upstream from the above site, 

in a pool below the Canyon Road crossing, contained no fish (Leidy 1984).

In September 1983, EBRPD electrofished Indian Creek from the San Leandro Creek confluence to the Canyon Road 

intersection. Multiple age classes of O. mykiss were found, including YOY and 11 older individuals (81-356 mm FL) (Alexander 

1984a). In June 1984, EBRPD electrofished Indian Creek at the upper San Leandro Creek confluence and below an upstream 

barrier. Each location supported YOY O. mykiss and other age classes (18: 72-170 mm FL) (Alexander 1984b). In June 1986, 

EBRPD electrofished Indian Creek at Canyon Road. No YOY O. mykiss were found in a pool below the road crossing that 

contained older individuals (7: 195-345 mm FL) (Alexander 1987).

In July 1989, DFG electrofished a pool on Indian Creek just below Canyon Road. No O. mykiss were found (Hagar 1989a). 

In July and August 1990, EBRPD electrofished the lower 160 meters of Indian Creek in conjunction with habitat surveys to 

determine the total O. mykiss population size. No O. mykiss were caught (Holsinger et al. 1991).

In June 1993, Leidy electrofished 30 meters of stream immediately above Pinehurst Road and caught five O. mykiss (146-190 mm 

FL) (Leidy 2002). He also electrofished a 30 meter reach approximately 0.3 miles upstream along Canyon Road, but caught no 

fish (Leidy 2002). Leidy electrofished the 30 meter reach immediately upstream from Pinehurst Road again in February 1997 and 

caught four O. mykiss (75-130mm FL) (Leidy 2002).

Assessment: Coastal steelhead were isolated in the Upper San Leandro Creek watershed when Chabot Dam was constructed in 

1875. Steelhead were isolated further in the upper reaches of several fragmented drainages following the construction of Upper 

San Leandro Reservoir in 1926 (Hagar 1989b). Genetic analysis performed on O. mykiss from Redwood Creek and Kaiser Creek 

found the fish to be unique populations of non-hybridized, coastal rainbow trout (Gall et al. 1990).

Adult O. mykiss migrate out of Upper San Leandro Reservoir to spawn in several streams including Redwood, San Leandro, 

Indian, Moraga, Kaiser and Buckhorn Creeks. Redwood and San Leandro creeks support the highest quality and greatest area of 

suitable spawning and rearing habitats, and the largest populations of O. mykiss in the upper watershed. Indian, Moraga, Kaiser 

and Buckhorn creeks also support populations of O. mykiss, although they are much smaller than those found in Redwood and 

San Leandro creeks. All creeks in the upper watershed are contained largely within protected watershed lands administered by 

EBRPD and EBMUD. The exception is Moraga Creek, which flows through suburbanized portions of the town of Moraga.
60

The status of O. mykiss within the portions of San Leandro Creek, including Miller Creek, between Upper San Leandro Reservoir 

and Lake Chabot, is uncertain, although suitable habitat appears to be available in both streams. The status of O. mykiss in Grass 

Valley Creek, which flows into the northern-most arm of Lake Chabot, also is unknown. 

San Leandro Creek below Lake Chabot supports a small run of O. mykiss of unknown size. Depending largely on the timing and 

amount of annual rainfall, lower San Leandro Creek supports suitable spawning and rearing habitat for anadromous O. mykiss

from approximately 0.5 miles downstream of Interstate 580 to Chabot Dam. Restoration of streamflows between December 

and April below Lake Chabot could benefit O. mykiss by expanding the quality and quantity of available spawning and rearing 

habitats, and providing water for downstream migrating smolts.

San Lorenzo Creek Watershed

San Lorenzo Creek flows generally west, entering central San Francisco Bay near Roberts Landing, west of the city of San 

Lorenzo. The watershed consists of about 48 square miles, with highly urbanized lower and middle watershed areas. A 4.6-mile 

concrete channel runs from the mouth upstream. The upper watershed, including areas tributary to Crow and Palomares creeks, 

is less urbanized. Cull Creek Dam, located at RM 8.9 approximately 0.25 miles upstream from the Crow Creek confluence, was 

constructed in the early 1960s. The dam created a complete barrier to fish migration. Don Castro Dam, located immediately 

downstream of the Palomares Creek confluence, also was built in the early 1960s and also created a complete barrier to 

upstream migration.

San Lorenzo Creek

DFG surveyed San Lorenzo Creek from the mouth upstream 8.3 miles in April 1946. At an upper station near the B Street Bridge 

(RM 7.77), steelhead (35-50 mm TL) were found to be abundant in shallow gravel areas (Shapovalov 1946). A local resident 

reported observing adult in-migrants in the year of the survey. The DFG survey also observed two steelhead, one each above and 

below tide gates near the mouth of San Lorenzo Creek. Oncorhynchus mykiss also were observed approximately 0.5 miles upstream 

from the tide gates. The survey report cited observations made by a local resident in 1941 or 1942 of 400 adult steelhead trying to 

ascend the concrete apron under the bridge on E. 14th Street in one day. The Department of Fish and Game estimated that about 

100 of these fish passed the apron (Shapovalov 1946). 

DFG rescued 770 fingerling steelhead from drying portions of San Lorenzo Creek in 1955 (Allen 1957). These fish apparently 

were moved to other watershed areas with wetted channel persisting longer into the dry season.

A 1960 DFG stream survey of Crow Creek noted that small, sporadic steelhead runs occurred in the San Lorenzo Creek drainage 

(Allen and Moore 1960a). A 1961 DFG memo assessing the probable effects of several proposed Corps’ flood control projects 

in the watershed also stated that the San Lorenzo Creek drainage appeared to support a minor steelhead run (Elwell 1961). The 

assessment estimated that there were 2.5 miles each of available spawning and nursery area of “mediocre” quality in the middle 

reach of San Lorenzo Creek (Elwell 1961). The assessment estimated a total of approximately 10.5 to 13.5 miles of spawning area 

considered “mediocre” and seven miles of “mediocre” nursery area scattered throughout the drainage. The Department of Fish 

and Game considered the winter steelhead fishery to be of little or no value as it did not attract many anglers, and did not propose 

actions to conserve steelhead as part of mitigation for water and flood control developments in the watershed (Elwell 1961). 
61

In a 1962 report, Skinner indicated that San Lorenzo Creek was an historical migration route and habitat for steelhead (Skinner 

1962). At that time, the creek was said to be “lightly used” as steelhead habitat (Skinner 1962). 

In August 1975, DFG visually surveyed San Lorenzo Creek from Don Castro Dam downstream to the inland limit of the 

concrete flood control channel at the Highway 238 crossing, a distance of 3.1 miles (Curtis and Scoppettone 1975b). Although 

no salmonids were observed, the survey report noted that San Lorenzo Creek was a historic steelhead stream (Curtis and 

Scoppettone 1975b). The report further noted that channelization, dam construction, flow regulation and urbanization of the 

basin, and siltation of gravels had an adverse impact on the steelhead resource. According to DFG, the downstream 4.3- mile 

concrete flood control channel likely was a barrier to steelhead passage as a result of high water velocity and absence of resting 

pools (Curtis and Scoppettone 1975b). The report observed that a program involving installation and maintenance of baffle plates 

in the low-flow channel to facilitate steelhead passage was terminated in 1963 with the construction of Don Castro Dam, which 

blocked access to principal spawning and nursery areas (Curtis and Scoppettone 1975b). The report concluded that San Lorenzo 

Creek did not appear to support a viable steelhead population and that the area below the reservoir should not be managed for 

trout (Curtis and Scoppettone 1975b).

A DFG memo from 1975 stated that rainbow trout lived in Don Castro Reservoir and main stem San Lorenzo Creek upstream 

from the reservoir (Anderson 1975a). The memo further noted that trout migrated upstream from Don Castro Reservoir into 

tributary streams to spawn during the spring months (Anderson 1975a).

As part of a fish distribution study, 11 sites along the entire length of San Lorenzo Creek were sampled during July 1981. 

Oncorhynchus mykiss was not found (Leidy 1984).

Spring migrant trapping, visual surveys for parr, and some electroshocking were performed on San Lorenzo Creek beginning in 

the Spring 1997 through the Spring 1998 as part of a masters thesis research project. No O. mykiss were observed or collected 

during the study (Kobernus 1998). The thesis concluded that the 4.6-mile concrete channel in lower San Lorenzo Creek was an 

impassable barrier to migratory fish. The thesis also identified four limitations in steelhead spawning and rearing habitat in San 

Lorenzo Creek, including few pools, lack of large woody debris, sedimentation of riffle habitats, and low abundance of benthic 

macroinvertebrates (Kobernus 1998).

As part of fisheries assessment, a July 1998 fisheries electrofishing survey of 16 sites within the San Lorenzo Creek watershed was 

conducted. A 305 mm TL fish was collected in San Lorenzo Creek downstream from Don Castro Dam and upstream from the 

confluence of Crow Creek (Hagar 1998). The survey report suggested that this fish might have come from Don Castro Reservoir 

because of its relatively large size. The second fish measuring 584 mm TL was collected from a large pool in San Lorenzo Creek 

downstream from the confluence of Crow Creek (Hagar 1998). The origin of this trout was not known, but the report considered 

that it was possibly anadromous. The report concluded that “the presence of trout in San Lorenzo Creek in July is an indication 

that the habitat may at least be capable of sustaining trout through the critical summer months” (Hagar 1998, p. 5). The report 

recommended further monitoring and analysis to determine whether water temperatures in the watershed were suitable for O. 

mykiss, and whether the 5.8 miles of channelized stream below the MacArthur Freeway was a barrier to adult steelhead.

ACFCWCD conducted a fisheries assessment, including fish sampling, of streams in the San Lorenzo Creek watershed during 

2001-2002. Six San Lorenzo Creek sites were sampled, revealing four O. mykiss within a 75-meter reach upstream of the Castro 

Valley Creek confluence (ACFCWCD and HES 2002). In May 2002, staff of the ACFCWCD observed two O. mykiss in San 
62

Lorenzo Creek between Foothill Boulevard and 2nd Street in the city of Hayward. The fish were estimated to be between 380-

510 mm in length (M. da Costa pers. comm.). It was not determined whether the trout had been “washed out” of Don Castro 

Reservoir or had migrated into the creek from San Francisco Bay.

Castro Valley Creek

Castro Valley Creek is largely underground in its lower reaches in the city of Castro Valley but has more natural reaches toward 

the headwaters. It flows generally south to join San Lorenzo Creek in the vicinity of Baywood School, east of Highway 238. 

In January 1997, a large adult female O. mykiss was noted in the lower part of Castro Valley Creek (L. P. Kobernus pers. comm.). 

The fish appeared to be of hatchery origin. Three Castro Valley Creek sites were surveyed in 2001 as part of a fish study for the 

San Lorenzo Creek watershed. No O. mykiss were found (ACFCWCD and HES 2002).

Crow Creek

Crow Creek is a perennial stream draining an area of approximately ten square miles and is the largest tributary to San Lorenzo 

Creek. A 1,600-foot-long concrete box culvert was constructed in 1972 upstream of the Cull Creek confluence with San Lorenzo 

Creek that is a fish passage barrier.

DFG rescued four fingerling steelhead from drying portions of Crow Creek in 1955 (Allen 1957). These fish apparently were 

moved to other watershed areas with wetted channel persisting longer into the dry season.

In June 1960, DFG surveyed Crow Creek from the mouth to the headwaters, a distance of 5.5 miles. No salmonids were observed 

(Allen and Moore 1960a). However, the survey report noted that small, periodic steelhead runs were known to occur in the 

drainage (Allen and Moore 1960a). The report further concluded that Crow Creek likely represented one of the better spawning 

and nursery tributaries of the San Lorenzo Creek watershed. In years of normal runoff, parts of the creek were believed capable of 

supporting a small juvenile steelhead population throughout the summer period (Allen and Moore 1960a). This DFG report cited 

local residents who had observed O. mykiss between 150-200 mm TL being caught early in the trout season in the stream’s lower 

reaches (Allen and Moore 1960a). 

A 1961 DFG memo assessing the probable effects of proposed Corps’ flood control projects in the watershed stated that 

Crow Creek contained the best steelhead spawning and nursery areas in the San Lorenzo Creek watershed (Elwell 1961). The 

Department of Fish and Game estimated that three to four miles of spawning habitat and two miles of rearing habitat were 

available in Crow Creek (Elwell 1961). However, DFG did not propose actions to conserve steelhead and their habitat as part of 

mitigation for water development in the drainage watershed.

In a 1962 report, Skinner indicated that Crow Creek was an historical migration route and habitat for steelhead (Skinner 1962). 

At that time, the creek was said to be “lightly used” as steelhead habitat (Skinner 1962). 

In July 1975, a pollution-induced fish kill in the vicinity of Crow Canyon Road included a 430 mm TL O. mykiss (DeSilva 1975). 

In August 1975, DFG visually surveyed the lower 8.2 miles of Crow Creek, essentially the entire stream length (Anderson and 

Scoppettone 1975). Above the confluence with Bolinas Creek, six O. mykiss were observed. One fish was netted and measured 230 
63

mm FL, with the others of similar size (Anderson and Scoppettone 1975). The survey report noted that Crow Creek supported 

a minimal number of rainbow trout in its upper reach and offered poor spawning habitat but sufficient food (Anderson and 

Scoppettone 1975).

As part of a fish distribution study, two sites on Crow Creek were sampled in July 1981. No O. mykiss were collected 

(Leidy 1984).

ACFCWCD conducted a fisheries habitat assessment of streams in the San Lorenzo Creek watershed during 2001-2002, 

including fish sampling at six Crow Creek sites. Oncorhynchus mykiss were collected at two locations, one near the Cull Creek 

confluence and a second about one mile upstream. The former site yielded eight O. mykiss in a 115-meter reach, while the latter 

contained two individuals in a 138-meter reach (ACFCWCD and HES 2002). The report cites the sampling results as evidence of 

successful reproduction of rainbow trout in Crow Creek (ACFCWCD and HES 2002).

Cull Creek

Cull Creek is characterized by about seven miles of intermittent stream between the confluence with Crow Creek and the 

headwaters. It flows generally south to enter Crow Creek just downstream of the Cull Creek Dam. This dam, built in 1962, is a 

complete barrier to fish passage (ACFCWCD and HES 2002).

In July 1960, DFG visually surveyed the length of Cull Creek primarily by automobile with occasional stops to check the 

stream. No fish were observed, but the survey report noted that in 1957 or 1958, 50-100 mm O. mykiss were reported below a 

ranch pond spillway about midway along Cull Canyon Road (Rafra 1960). The Department of Fish and Game estimated that 

there was little or no steelhead use in years of normal rainfall (Rafra 1960). Another report from the same survey stated that the 

stream probably received some use as a spawning area in some years (Allen 1960a). A farm pond dam located at about RM 4 was 

identified as a complete barrier to fish migration. The Department of Fish and Game recommended that Cull Creek be managed 

as a steelhead spawning stream (Allen 1960a).

In a 1962 report, Skinner indicated that Cull Creek was an historical migration route and habitat for steelhead (Skinner 1962). At 

that time, the creek was said to be “lightly used” as steelhead habitat (Skinner 1962). 

As part of a fish distribution study, one Cull Creek site was sampled in July 1981. No O. mykiss were collected (Leidy 1984).

ACFCWCD sampled three Cull Creek sites in April 2001 as part of a fisheries habitat assessment. No O. mykiss were collected 

(ACFCWCD and HES 2002).

Palomares Creek

Palomares Creek and its tributaries drain the hills east of the city of Castro Valley. This stream is an intermittent tributary to 

San Lorenzo Creek estimated to consist of about five miles of channel that joins San Lorenzo Creek near Don Castro Regional 

Recreation Area. 
64

In June 1960, DFG surveyed the length of Palomares Creek by automobile with occasional stops to check the stream. In pools 

in the lower section, O. mykiss 38-89 mm TL were observed at an estimated density of 10-20 fish per 30 meters of stream (Allen 

1960b). The survey report stated that historically Palomares Creek was probably utilized by steelhead as a spawning area, and 

that juveniles probably migrated to the lower part of the drainage, remaining in nursery areas in San Lorenzo Creek until they 

migrated to the Bay (Allen 1960b). The report also estimated that there was approximately three to four miles of “mediocre” to 

“fair” steelhead spawning areas, and recommended continued management of Palomares Creek for steelhead spawning (Allen 

1960b).

As part of a fish distribution study, two Palomares Creek sites were sampled below Don Castro Dam in July 1981 (Leidy 1984). 

No O. mykiss were collected. The Department of Fish and Game reported seeing rainbow trout in Palomares Creek in September 

1987 (Gray 1987c).

In July 1996, Leidy electrofished Palomares Creek at the confluence with Eden Canyon Creek, opposite Palomares School. No O. 

mykiss were collected (Leidy 2002). Four Palomares Creek sites were sampled in April 2001 as part of a fisheries habitat assessment 

by ACFCWCD. No O. mykiss were collected (ACFCWCD and HES 2002).

Eden Canyon Creek (Eden Creek)

This creek is tributary to Palomares Creek and consists of about three miles of channel between the mouth and the headwaters. 

A drop structure under Palomares Road and Interstate 580 on Eden Creek is a barrier to fish passage into Eden Canyon Creek 

(ACFCWCD and HES 2002).

In June 1960, DFG surveyed the length of Eden Canyon Creek primarily by automobile with occasional stops to assess the 

stream. No fish were observed. The study report concluded that Eden Canyon Creek had little value as a sport fishery (Allen and 

Moore 1960b).

As part of a fish distribution study, one Eden Canyon Creek site was sampled in July 1981. No O. mykiss were collected (

Leidy 1984).

ACFCWCD sampled two Eden Creek sites in April 2001 as part of a fisheries habitat assessment. No O. mykiss were collected 

(ACFCWCD and HES 2002).

Assessment: Steelhead probably used much of the San Lorenzo Creek watershed historically, until channelization and other 

effects of urbanization led to degraded habitat and decreased population size. Steelhead were relatively abundant in this system 

into the 1950s (ACFCWCD and HES 2002). Construction of Don Castro Dam and Cull Creek Dam completely blocked 

anadromous fish migration into large portions of the upper watershed in the early 1960s.

According to a fisheries assessment for the drainage, O. mykiss persists at extremely low frequency in the watershed, probably as a 

result of stocking in Don Castro Reservoir (ACFCWCD and HES 2002). The assessment report summarizes conditions in San 

Lorenzo Creek as follows: “Although suitable habitat for rainbow trout and steelhead exists in the watershed, passage barriers, 

excess fine sediment, and periodic poor water quality limit the numbers and distribution of these fish” (ACFCWCD and HES 

2002, p. 1).
65

Alameda Creek Watershed

At about 700 square miles, the Alameda Creek watershed is the largest of the San Francisco Estuary. Alameda Creek was 

channelized from the San Francisco Bay upstream about 12 miles to the vicinity of Niles Canyon between 1965 and the mid1970s for flood control and water supply purposes. Geographic features referenced in the following discussion include Niles 

Canyon, Sunol Valley, and upper Alameda Creek. Important tributaries include Arroyo de la Laguna, San Antonio Creek 

and Calaveras Creek, each of which contains a major reservoir (i.e., Lake del Valle, San Antonio and Calaveras Reservoirs, 

respectively).

Alameda Creek

A series of DFG memoranda written by Mr. Leo Shapovalov during 1938 discuss several observations of O. mykiss in Alameda 

Creek. One memo reported on Shapovalov’s interview with construction workers for the San Francisco Water Department at 

the Calaveras Diversion Dam, who described seeing steelhead jumping at the Sunol Dam in Niles Canyon because they were 

unable to use the fishway (Shapovalov 1938a). The memo noted that steelhead were impeded by an 18-20 foot dam at the second 

railroad bridge downstream from Sunol, in Niles Canyon, the location of the Hetch Hetchy pipelines.

In another entry on the same date, Shapovalov noted an interview with a local rancher, who reported that in May 1938 a 

fisherman caught 20 steelhead (~300 mm) at Rooney Ranch near the Pirate Creek confluence (Shapovalov 1938a). In May 

1938, DFG staff observed abundant trout (to 40-50 mm TL) that had recently emerged from gravel near the Calaveras Creek 

confluence and in Calaveras Creek (Shapovalov 1938a). The memo also noted that 4,000 rainbow trout were planted in this reach 

of Alameda Creek in 1937; however the hatchery source of these fish is not stated.

DFG formerly stocked O. mykiss in Alameda Creek for a “put-and-take” fishery during the summer months. This practice dates 

back to at least 1937 according to DFG records (Shapovalov 1938a). Also, field notes from EBRPD staff report that property 

owners have planted trout below the Ohlone section of upper Alameda Creek intermittently over the 50 years before 1995 

(Alexander 1995-1999).

DFG rescued 200 fingerling steelhead from drying portions of Alameda Creek in 1955 (Allen 1957). These fish apparently were 

moved to other watershed areas with wetted channel persisting longer into the dry season.

DFG staff observed 40 miles of Alameda Creek from the mouth to Mt. Hamilton and vicinity, as well as 22 miles of major 

tributaries, in a one-day survey on foot and by car in May 1957. The report concluded that upper Alameda Creek and its 

tributaries provided “excellent” habitat both for survival and for reproduction of trout (Pintler 1957).

An ichthyology class’s sampling data sheets noted capture by seining of one adult O. mykiss in April 1967 (Barlow 1967). The 

fish was collected at the Stanley Bridge, Old Canyon Road in Niles and, based upon an assessment of condition, was apparently 

a steelhead.

DFG sampled six Alameda Creek locations in June 1973 by electrofishing: three sites in Lower Alameda Creek, one in Niles 

Canyon and two in Upper Alameda Creek near the Calaveras Creek confluence. No O. mykiss were found during the sampling 

and the resulting report placed a “?” value in the table indicating presence/absence for rainbow trout in the 1973 collections 
66

(Aceituno et al. 1976). In 1973 and 1974, steelhead were reported attempting to migrate upstream through the Alameda Creek 

flood control channel. Also, in 1974, “three runs of from 20 to 60 fish” were seen.

In a 1977 paper, Scoppettone and Smith describe results of sampling conducted using seines and electroshockers in three Alameda 

Creek locations between 1972 and 1977. These locations were a site 0.3 miles upstream from the Calaveras Creek confluence and 

a site at Mile Post 5, Ohlone Camp Road. The two locations revealed O. mykiss at relative abundances of “2” on a 5-point scale 

with “5” indicating “very abundant” (Scoppettone and Smith 1977).

DFG and EBRPD staff sampled Alameda Creek immediately upstream of the Calaveras Creek confluence in September 1987. 

Electrofishing results included 15 O. mykiss (50-81 mm FL) (Gray 1988b).

Leidy electrofished sites (typically 30 m) on Alameda Creek in 1992, 1993, 1994 and 1996. All O. mykiss were found immediately 

above the Alameda Creek Diversion Dam within or below Camp Ohlone Regional Park, or just below Alameda Creek Diversion 

Dam. Two exceptions were for two O. mykiss, one found in Niles Canyon in 1992 and one found immediately below the Old 

Spring Valley Water Company diversion dam at the top of Niles Canyon in October 1993 (Leidy 2002). 

Leidy’s sampling in 1992 and 1993 is reported in Table IV-3. Three sites in Camp Ohlone, two sites near the confluence of 

Arroyo de la Laguna, and one site just above the confluence with Calaveras Creek did not produce O. mykiss in 1992 (Leidy 

2002). In 1993, three sites in or near Sunol Regional Park, one site at the confluence with Arroyo de la Laguna, three sites near 

the Old Spring Valley Water Co. diversion dam at the top of Niles Canyon, three sites within Niles Canyon, and three sites within 

the flood control channel produced no O. mykiss (Leidy 2002).
67

Table IV-3. Alameda Creek sampling results for O. mykiss, 1992

Date Location Number Size

(mm FL)

1992

April Camp Ohlone 2

3

140, 168

unmeasured

May 0.2 mi. upstream SFWD Niles Canyon Rd. 2 268, 275

June 0.75 m. downstream ACDD 1

3

270

~200-255

June 0.5 mi. downstream Camp Ohlone 19 51-215

June Immediately downstream Little Yosemite 23 50-250

July 0.5 mi. downstream Camp Ohlone 12 70-220

Sept. Falls 0.5 mi. downstream Camp Ohlone 16

~500

158-265

~25-100

Sept. Little Yosemite, downstream from grate on 

dirt rd.

11

many YOY

154-230

~100

1993

May Falls 0.5 miles downstream Camp Ohlone 10 35-195

May Immediately upstream above site 22 50-233

Aug. 0.25 miles downstream ACDD 4

1

79-106

245

Aug. 0.2 miles below ACDD 14 75-240

Aug. Immediately downstream ACDD 7 78-192

Oct. Immediately downstream Old Spring Valley 

Water Co. diversion dam

1 158

Nov. Opposite Ranch House, Camp Ohlone 2 128, 134

(Source: Leidy 2002)

Leidy observed three O. mykiss (25-50 mm TL) near the Calaveras Creek confluence in March 1994. In April 1994, two sites 

downstream from Interstate 680 and one site downstream from the Old Spring Valley Water Company diversion dam produced 

no O. mykiss (Leidy 2002). Leidy sampled two sites downstream from the Old Spring Valley Water Company diversion dam again 

in August 1996 and found no O. mykiss (Leidy 2002). Department of Fish and Game staff sampled eight upper Alameda Creek 

locations in July 1995. Four O. mykiss were collected (68-79 mm) by electrofishing (Murphy and Sidhom 1995).

EBRPD periodically samples fish populations in portions of Alameda Creek as part of their resources management program. Staff 

sampled pools at the downstream end of the Little Yosemite area and recorded four O. mykiss (113-188 mm FL) in October 1995. 

Below the Alameda Creek Diversion Dam, a 40-meter pool was electrofished during the same sampling effort and produced 24 O. 

mykiss (84-189 mm). Also in October 1995, staff sampled Alameda Creek near Camp Ohlone and found ten O. mykiss (88-207 

mm). Electroshocking in another pool near Camp Ohlone produced 20 O. mykiss (103-212 mm) (Alexander 1995-1999).
68

In October 1996, EBRPD staff sampled immediately above and below the Alameda Creek Diversion Dam. The downstream 

86-meter reach produced 12 O. mykiss (75-282 mm FL) and six “missed” individuals. Field notes indicated that some of the fish 

showed steelhead characteristics. The upstream site, consisting of a 43-meter pool, contained 19 O. mykiss (66-217 mm) and 

five “missed” individuals (Alexander 1995-1999). EBRPD staff sampled the Camp Ohlone area extensively in October 1996 by 

electroshocking. Data for nine sites in this area are summarized in the Table IV-4.

Table IV-4. EBRPD electroshocking on Alameda Creek at Camp Ohlone, October 1996

Reach Length Number

Collected

Size Range 

(mm) Number Observed*

“Pool” 1 200 1 (~200)

70 m 43 50-240

“Pool” 15 70-230

18 m 8 62-87 2

33 m 22 59-222

100 m 20 61-254

161 m 46 60-214 20

19 m 8 62-85

“Pools” 44 57-182 9

(Source: Alexander 1995-1999)

*not collected

In June 1997, EBRPD staff electroshocked a 52-meter reach in Sunol Regional Park and found one O. mykiss (196 mm). EBRPD 

staff electrofished a 30 meter reach below Little Yosemite in July 1997 and recorded four O. mykiss (54-102 mm) as well as two 

“missed” individuals of similar size (Alexander 1995-1999). Also in July 1997, staff sampled a one mile reach upstream of Camp 

Ohlone by dip net and seining at “random intervals” and found 13 juvenile O. mykiss (51-60 mm) and one resident adult (200 

mm).

Adult steelhead have also been reported in lower Alameda Creek in 1997 and the years up to the present (J. Miller pers. comm.). 

These fish are unable to pass the ten-foot drop structure between the Union Pacific Railroad and BART tracks. Limited numbers 

of O. mykiss have been collected in the flood control channel section of Alameda Creek. Sightings and collections involve between 

one and 15 individuals, and adult in-migrants measure up to 850 mm and larger. Genetic analyses of fin clips from O. mykiss in 

Alameda Creek and tributaries indicate a very strong relationship between these fish and Central Coast ESU steelhead 

(Nielsen 2003).

SFPUC has contracted for aquatic resource monitoring, including fish sampling, as part of its facilities planning. In August 

1998, a snorkel survey of seven pools in upper Alameda Creek found 20 O. mykiss in four pools (Trihey & Associates Inc. 1999). 

Sampling also included electrofishing in seven reaches, two of which produced O. mykiss. Population estimates were reported as 

Site 1: 12 0+, 2 1+, 11 2+ and Site 3: 12 0+ (Trihey & Associates Inc. 1999).
69

As part of the SFPUC monitoring program, consultants re-surveyed seven pools by snorkeling in September 1999, and 

electrofished seven sites in October of that year. Sampling locations were in the approximately four-mile area beginning near the 

Sunol Valley Water Treatment Plant to approximately 1,500 feet upstream of the Calaveras Creek confluence. Snorkel surveys 

found YOY O. mykiss only upstream of the confluence. The 1999 electrofishing effort produced an abundance estimate of four 

individuals at one site.

Surveys of Alameda Creek were performed in September and October 1999 as part of an assessment of the feasibility of restoring 

steelhead to the watershed (Gunther et al. 2000). Oncorhynchus mykiss were observed in most pools from the Little Yosemite 

area upstream to the Alameda Creek Diversion Dam (ACDD), including YOY and adult O. mykiss to 305 mm. From ACDD 

upstream to the Camp Ohlone area, YOY and adults to 250 mm in length were found to be “abundant” in most pools. In the 

reach above the Camp Ohlone area, O. mykiss was again observed in most pools and included YOY and adults to 200 mm. The 

survey report noted that upstream migration was not possible past ACDD, indicating that trout above the dam are resident 

(Gunther et al. 2000). Also in October 1999, EBRPD staff found one O. mykiss (198 mm) in a 27 meter reach near the Sunol 

Lower Swim Dam while electroshock sampling (Alexander 1995-1999).

Sampling was conducted in Alameda Creek in May 2001 to collect O. mykiss for genetic analysis. Upstream of ACDD, five O. 

mykiss were collected ranging in size from 120-160 mm FL, while the site downstream of the dam produced nine O. mykiss (105-

218 mm FL). A third site at the Little Yosemite area yielded 16 O. mykiss (99-191 mm FL). Tissue samples were taken from each 

sampled group of fish for analysis. Upper Alameda Creek trout were shown to be closely related to previously sampled fish and to 

native, wild O. mykiss collected in other portions of the watershed (Nielsen 2003).

Dry Creek

Based on the size and location of the Dry Creek drainage, as well as the known fish assemblage, it is probable that the creek 

historically supported use by O. mykiss, at least in wet years. Under current conditions, use by steelhead or resident O. mykiss is 

highly unlikely (S. McGinnis pers. comm.).

Stonybrook Creek

Stonybrook Creek flows south out of Stonybrook Canyon, joining Alameda Creek in Niles Canyon. In October 1955, staff 

from the California Academy of Sciences seined approximately 20 O. mykiss (75-175 mm TL) at a point about 1.5 miles above 

the Alameda Creek confluence (Follett 1974). Also in October, five O. mykiss (~50 mm TL) were collected in a pool 1.2 miles 

upstream of the Alameda Creek confluence (Follett 1974). 

DFG rescued 645 fingerling steelhead from drying portions of Stonybrook Creek in 1955 (Allen 1957). These fish apparently 

were moved to other watershed areas with wetted channel persisting longer into the dry season. A 1959 DFG letter indicated that 

steelhead were known to spawn in Stonybrook Creek (Fisher 1959).

In April 1976, DFG electroshocked a 30-meter reach of Stonybrook Creek 150 yards upstream from the Alameda Creek 

confluence. One 250 mm O. mykiss was found, but the associated DFG report concluded that Stonybrook Creek did not support 

a viable population of rainbow trout due to the “seasonal” nature of the stream (Scoppettone 1976d).
70

In September 1987, DFG electrofished a small pool on Stonybrook Creek approximately 1.5 miles from the Alameda Creek 

confluence. Four O. mykiss were caught ranging in length from 162-219 mm FL (Gray 1987b).

EBRPD staff electroshocked a 27-meter reach of Stonybrook Creek immediately downstream of the first road crossing, which 

constitutes a migration barrier, in April 1999. Eight O. mykiss were found (189-335 mm) (Alexander 1995-1999).

Two in-migrating steelhead were captured by EBRPD in main stem Alameda Creek at the BART weir in February, 1999. These 

fish were radio-tagged and released near the bottom of Niles Canyon. Subsequent tracking found that the female steelhead 

had passed a culvert into Stonybrook Creek (Miller 1999). Becker noted YOY O. mykiss in the following year (2000) at the 

downstream end of the first impassable road crossing on Stonybrook Creek, suggesting that the steelhead had successfully 

reproduced with a resident O. mykiss (Becker 2002).

Sinbad Creek

Sinbad Creek drains the valley formed by Sunol Ridge and Pleasanton Ridge. It runs roughly from north to south, feeding 

Alameda Creek in the town of Sunol. A local resident fished in Sinbad Creek during his childhood and donated photographs to 

EBRPD. The photographs indicate O. mykiss caught in the creek during the 1940s and 1950s. Fish depicted in the photos are 

believed to be anadromous from their size and appearance (Mills n.d.).

EBRPD records indicate electofishing of Sinbad Creek downstream of 589 Kilkare Road to the first bridge in September 1999. 

No O. mykiss were collected in the sample (Alexander 1995-1999).

Arroyo de la Laguna

Historically, Arroyo de la Laguna drained Tulare Lake, a marsh situated between the present-day towns of Dublin and Pleasanton. 

Tulare Lake was fed by numerous tributaries, including the Arroyos Valle and Mocho, as well as Tassajara and Alamo Creeks. 

The marsh was drained and the stream channels realigned, altering the historic relationship of these streams. Arroyo de la Laguna 

is currently formed by the confluence of Arroyo Valle and a channel that transports the merged drainages of Arroyo Mocho, 

Tassajara, South San Ramon and several other creeks (Sowers 1995). 

In a 1962 report, Skinner indicated that Arroyo de la Laguna was an historical migration route for steelhead (Skinner 1962). 

DFG and USFWS sampled Arroyo de la Laguna by electrofishing in October and November 1975, February 1976 (four stations), 

and May 1976 (two stations). No O. mykiss were reported in these three surveys (Michny and Ging 1975; Scoppettone 1976a, 

1976b).

A fish kill occurred in January 1985 in an unnamed tributary to Arroyo de la Laguna. An investigation noted several species of fish 

killed, but no salmonids were among them. The Department of Fish and Game again surveyed the creek in May 1985 in relation 

to flow releases from del Valle Reservoir. The report stated that adequate streamflows were needed to allow the reestablishment of 

steelhead runs in the Alameda Creek system and were required under Fish and Game Code Section 5937 (Gray 1986a). No O. 

mykiss were found during the sampling (Gray 1986a).
71

Leidy electrofished Arroyo de la Laguna at ten locations between March and December 1993, one location in May 1994 and one 

location in July 1996. No O. mykiss were found at any of the sampling locations (Leidy 2002).

According to an unpublished study of steelhead use of the Arroyo de la Laguna system, anadromous O. mykiss appear to have used 

Arroyo de la Laguna for migration into spawning tributaries in wet years. We found no records that the arroyo itself provided 

steelhead habitat historically.

Vallecitos Creek

Vallecitos Creek is tributary to Arroyo de la Laguna. Leidy electrofished this creek at the San Antonio Road Crossing in October 

1993, but found no O. mykiss. EBRPD records indicate electrofishing in June 1999 at a site upstream from the Sunol-Pleasanton 

pipeline crossing that did not produce O. mykiss (P. Alexander pers. comm.).

Arroyo Valle (Arroyo del Valle)

Arroyo Valle is tributary to Arroyo de la Laguna. In April 1910, the Livermore Herald reported game warden and fishermen’s 

statements that the headwaters of Arroyo Valle were “full of fish.” One trout (presumably O. mykiss) was collected measuring 

about 750 mm, and numerous smaller fish were noted (Livermore Herald 1910). In June 1953, an angler took a steelhead 

measuring over 550 mm from Arroyo Valle near Livermore (Livermore Herald 1953).

In a 1962 report, Skinner indicated that Arroyo Valle was an historical migration route and habitat for steelhead (Skinner 1962). 

At that time, the creek was said to be “lightly used” as steelhead (Skinner 1962). 

Survey work, including electroshocking, in September 1983 and May 1985 was performed at Arroyo Valle below Lake del Valle to 

document the potential for steelhead habitat. The survey report indicated that there was potential for establishing populations of 

O. mykiss in the creek downstream of Del Valle dam (Gray 1986b). Unpublished studies by Hanson Environmental in 2002-2003 

also documented areas of suitable habitat downstream of the dam.

Leidy electrofished Arroyo Valle at three locations between 1993 and 1996. Oncorhynchus mykiss was not found (Leidy 2002). 

EBRPD records document electrofishing at four Arroyo Valle sites in October-November 1999. Oncorhynchus mykiss was not 

collected at any of the sites, which included locations upstream and downstream of Lake del Valle (Alexander 1995-1999).

Portions of Arroyo Valle were surveyed in September 1999 as part of a steelhead restoration feasibility study. No O. mykiss were 

observed in two reaches downstream from Lake del Valle and the survey report noted: “No habitat offering good potential as 

spawning or rearing habitat was observed” (Gunther et al. 2000, pp. 73-74).

Unpublished studies by Hanson Environmental of steelhead resources of the Arroyo de la Laguna system indicate that Arroyo 

Valle likely was most commonly used tributary by spawning steelhead. The relatively large watershed was cited as likely to lead to 

conditions of hydrologic connectivity with Arroyo de la Laguna in moderate water years.
72

Trout Creek

This creek is tributary to Arroyo Valle above Lake del Valle and consists of about eight stream miles. Oncorhynchus mykiss are 

noted in Trout Creek in a DFG stream survey believed to date from 1944 that notes perennial stream flow in the upper catchment 

and “common” spawning grounds, but speculates that natural propagation probably does not occur in the creek (Shapovalov 

1944b).

Colorado Creek

Colorado Creek is a headwater tributary of Arroyo Valle. The creek consists of about six miles of channel draining the northeast 

flank of the Burnt Hills. 

Leidy sampled Colorado Creek by dip net about 0.5 miles upstream from the Mines Road crossing in August 1981. He collected 

O. mykiss ranging between 48-282 mm FL (Leidy 1984).

Arroyo Bayo

Arroyo Bayo originates east of Mt. Hamilton and flows generally north to its confluence with San Antonio Creek, when it 

becomes Arroyo Valle, upstream of Lake del Valle. No records concerning fish in this creek were found. Informal surveys of 

Arroyo Bayo indicate that the watershed does not presently support an O. mykiss population (J. Hale pers. comm.).

San Antonio Creek 

This creek originates in the area east of Mt. Hamilton and south of the Burnt Hills. It flows north, then east, to its confluence 

with Arroyo Bayo when it becomes Arroyo Valle. No records concerning fish in this creek were found. Informal surveys of San 

Antonio Creek indicate that the watershed does not presently support an O. mykiss population (J. Hale pers. comm.).

Beauregard Creek

This creek is tributary to San Antonio Creek. It flows generally west from the area east of San Antonio Valley. No records 

concerning fish in this creek were found. Informal surveys of Beauregard Creek indicate that the watershed does not presently 

support an O. mykiss population (J. Hale pers. comm.).

Arroyo Mocho

From its relatively undeveloped headwaters area, the creek runs generally northwest to the city of Livermore where it turns west 

and flows to its confluence with the drainage channel feeding Arroyo de la Laguna. Potential passage barriers have been identified 

on Arroyo Mocho, including a drop structure at Stanley Boulevard and an access road at the LLNL.

A newspaper report from May 1911 notes anglers’ reports of catching trout over 280 mm in Arroyo Mocho within six miles of 

Livermore. Fish also were noted in the creek’s headwaters, resulting from plantings in the previous two seasons (Livermore Herald
73

1911). A 1944 DFG stream survey reported O. mykiss present in Arroyo Mocho, but cited past stocking as the likely source of the 

fish, due to a low probability of natural propagation in the creek (Shapovalov 1944a).

In a 1962 report, Skinner indicated that Arroyo Mocho was an historical migration route and habitat for steelhead (Skinner 

1962). A report on fish sampling between 1972 and 1977 produced a relative abundance estimate for O. mykiss of “4” on a 

5-point scale (Scoppettone and Smith 1977). Sampling was performed by seining and electrofishing at a site near the LLNL 

pumping station. A site 0.6 miles above del Valle Road received an O. mykiss relative abundance rating of “2” (Scoppettone and 

Smith 1977).

An ichthyofaunal survey was conducted in February 1976 at three Arroyo Mocho stations: (1) LLNL pumping station; (2) 

Cedar Brook Ranch; and (3) near Mines Road. All three stations were electroshocked and produced O. mykiss. Combined results 

indicated 44 individuals with the following size distribution: 21 fish: 67-139 mm FL; 15 fish: 153-195 mm; and 8 fish: 211-318 

mm (Scoppettone 1976c).

In December 1993, Leidy electrofished Arroyo Mocho at Wente Road and Marina Avenue. No O. mykiss were found (Leidy 

2002). Portions of the creek were surveyed in September 1999 as part of a steelhead restoration feasibility study. One O. mykiss

(150-200 mm) was observed upstream from the LLNL road crossing and the survey report noted pools with potential to hold 

trout during rearing (Gunther et al. 2000).

Sampling was conducted in Arroyo Mocho in April 2001 to collect O. mykiss for genetic analysis. At the property of J. Norton, 

31 O. mykiss were collected (89-189 mm FL) and tissue samples taken for analysis. Arroyo Mocho trout were shown to be more 

closely related to Central Valley hatchery strains than to other Alameda Creek watershed populations (Nielsen 2003).

Tassajara Creek

This creek is tributary to the drainage channel feeding Arroyo de la Laguna. In May 1994, Leidy electrofished a 50 meter reach 

on Tassajara Creek at the Tassajara Regional Land Bank and found no O. mykiss (Leidy 2002). Informal surveys of Tassajara Creek 

indicate that the watershed does not presently support an O. mykiss population (J. Hale pers. comm.).

Arroyo las Positas

Arroyo las Positas is tributary to Arroyo Mocho. In a 1962 report, Skinner indicated that Arroyo las Positas was an historical 

migration route for steelhead (Skinner 1962). 

The creek was surveyed from the mouth in September 1999 as part of a study of the feasibility of restoring steelhead to the 

Alameda Creek system. No O. mykiss were found and the survey report noted that the creek and its tributaries had no spawning/

rearing potential (Gunther et al. 2000).
74

Cayetano Creek

This creek is tributary to Arroyo las Positas. The creek was surveyed from the mouth in September 1999 as part of a study of the 

feasibility of restoring steelhead to the Alameda Creek system. No O. mykiss were found and the survey report noted that the creek 

had no spawning/rearing potential (Gunther et al. 2000).

South San Ramon Creek

This creek appears to have been re-constructed as a flood control channel parallel to Interstate 680 on the freeway’s east side. It 

is tributary to the drainage channel feeding Arroyo de la Laguna. No records regarding fish in this creek were found. Informal 

surveys of South San Ramon Creek indicate that the watershed does not presently support an O. mykiss population (J. Hale 

pers. comm.).

San Antonio Creek

San Antonio Creek originates in the hills near the Ohlone Regional Wilderness and flows generally west to its confluence with 

Alameda Creek. The majority of the San Antonio Creek catchment was impounded by construction of San Antonio Reservoir in 

the mid-1960s. The dam forming San Antonio Reservoir is a complete barrier to upstream migration.

According to a 1954 DFG field note, San Antonio Creek formerly supported a small steelhead run each year (Evans 1954). The 

Department of Fish and Game rescued eight fingerling steelhead from drying portions of San Antonio Creek in 1955 (Allen 

1957). These fish apparently were moved to other watershed areas with wetted channel persisting longer into the dry season.

Leidy sampled two locations on San Antonio Creek above San Antonio Reservoir in 1997. At the first road crossing above the 

reservoir, a 35-meter reach yielded ten O. mykiss (68-148 mm FL) (Leidy 2002). These fish were assumed to be migrating from 

the reservoir. A 30-meter reach immediately above the confluence with La Costa Creek yielded 13 O. mykiss (58-90 mm) 

(Leidy 2002).

In order to develop information regarding life history characteristics of O. mykiss in San Antonio Reservoir, a fish trapping 

program has been developed for the SFPUC. In February-March 2002, a total of 149 smolts and 44 adults were collected by fish 

traps operating over the course of 25 days in San Antonio Creek upstream of the reservoir (Entrix 2002). Juvenile O. mykiss were 

found from 111-140 mm FL, while adults ranged from 347-525 mm FL (Entrix 2002).

Trout samples were taken from San Antonio Reservoir in 2002 for genetic analysis. Oncorhynchus mykiss using the reservoir and its 

tributaries were shown to be closely related to previously sampled fish and to native, wild O. mykiss collected in other portions of 

the watershed (Nielsen 2003).

Indian Creek

This creek was formerly tributary to San Antonio Creek. Its mouth was drowned by creation of San Antonio Reservoir, to which 

the creek is now tributary. San Antonio Creek flows generally north from its headwaters in the Ohlone Regional Wilderness.
75

In July 1953, DFG inspected Indian Creek and found large numbers of stranded steelhead, ranging in size from 75-150 mm 

(Johnson 1953b). A rescue was performed in August of that year, with O. mykiss moved to Alameda Creek (Johnson 1953a). The 

DFG field notes from the rescue indicated that about one-quarter of the rainbow trout observed in Indian Creek pools in early 

August were remaining by the third week, and that these fish ranged in size from 100-300 mm.

DFG rescued 75 fingerling steelhead from drying portions of Indian Creek in 1955 (Allen 1957). These fish apparently were 

moved to other watershed areas with wetted channel persisting longer into the dry season.

Leidy sampled a 30-meter reach of Indian Creek in February 1997 at a site approximately 0.2 miles upstream from the road 

crossing along San Antonio Reservoir. Four O. mykiss (75-150 mm FL) were found, primarily in a single pool (Leidy 2002). He 

noted that this reach of the creek dries completely in summer, although perennial flow occurs in the creek’s headwaters.

La Costa Creek

La Costa Creek flows generally north from its headwaters in the Ohlone Regional Wilderness to the San Antonio Creek 

confluence. Construction of San Antonio Reservoir isolated O. mykiss in this system from anadromous steelhead.

A May 1938 DFG survey noted trout to 75 mm as “common” in La Costa Creek (Shapovalov 1938c). The Department of Fish 

and Game rescued 250 fingerling steelhead from drying portions of Alameda Creek in 1955 (Allen 1957). These fish apparently 

were moved to other watershed areas with wetted channel persisting longer into the dry season.

Leidy found O. mykiss at all of three locations electrofished on La Costa Creek in October 1993 (Leidy 2002). At a site 0.25 miles 

upstream from the confluence with San Antonio Creek he caught 15 O. mykiss (52-115mm FL). Immediately upstream from this 

site, Leidy collected seven O. mykiss (70-165mm), and in a reach downstream from the SFPUC property boundary, he caught 18 

O. mykiss (53-115mm) (Leidy 2002).

Indian Joe Creek

Indian Joe Creek is primarily contained within the Sunol Regional Wilderness. According to the personal account of a descendant 

of ranch owners in the area of present-day Sunol Regional Park, anadromous fish were observed to spawn in Indian Joe Creek in 

the early 1900s (Larson 2000). Mr. Larson told Sunol Park staff that his relatives were able to scoop the fish up for food.

Staff from EBRPD staff sampled this creek at the Alameda Creek confluence by dip net and electroshocking in June 1997. Nine 

O. mykiss were recorded (44-154 mm FL). Parks district staff again sampled this creek by electrofishing in June 1999. A 56-

meter reach located just upstream from the Alameda Creek confluence yielded 26 O. mykiss (38-67 mm FL) as well as 37 YOY 

(Alexander 1995-1999). Field notes stated that no larger trout were found at this location or farther upstream.

Calaveras Creek

Calaveras Creek drains the hills area east of the town of Milpitas. It flows generally north to the Alameda Creek confluence. Most 

of the runoff from this catchment is impounded in Calaveras Reservoir, constructed in the 1920s. The Department of Fish and 
76

Game visually surveyed the 1.5-mile reach between the Alameda Creek confluence and Calaveras Dam in May 1938. The survey 

report noted abundant trout (40-50 mm) emerging from gravel in Calaveras Creek (Shapovalov 1938b).

In April 1988, DFG staff electrofished “selected” pools and riffles between the Alameda Creek confluence and about 0.5 miles 

downstream of Calaveras Dam. The survey report noted that habitat appeared to be suitable for rainbow trout, but O. mykiss was 

not caught or seen (Gray 1988a).

A lake survey by DFG from June 1940 indicated the presence of O. mykiss in Calaveras Reservoir (Shapovalov 1943). The 

Department of Fish and Game sampled the reservoir by electroshocking and gill net in at least five sampling events between April 

and September of 1973. Twenty-six O. mykiss were collected ranging from 244 to 546 mm FL (Anderson 1973; CDFG 1973; 

Meints and Anderson 1973; Strohschein 1973a, 1973b).

Arroyo Hondo

Arroyo Hondo flows generally north from its headwaters on Mt. Hamilton. Formerly a tributary to Calaveras Creek, it now feeds 

Calaveras Reservoir. A 1905 report noted O. mykiss in this stream (Snyder 1905). Construction of Calaveras Dam isolated this 

population from anadromous O. mykiss.

DFG reported that analysis of scales of O. mykiss indicated that two adults sampled in 1937 were found to be five years old. These 

fish probably migrated from Calaveras Reservoir two separate times to spawn in Arroyo Hondo (Shapovalov 1937). A September 

1953 field note stated that trout of various sizes were seen in Arroyo Hondo at the bridge on Hondo Road (Evans 1953).

Sampling was performed by seining and electrofishing at a site near Arroyo Hondo Road between 1972 and 1977. The survey 

produced a relative abundance estimate for O. mykiss of “5” on a 5 point scale with “5” being “very abundant” (Scoppettone and 

Smith 1977).

In September 1993, Leidy electrofished five locations on Arroyo Hondo 0.15 miles, 0.2 miles, 0.6 miles, 0.8 miles, and 1.3 

miles upstream from Marsh Road. The first site yielded three O. mykiss (72, 78, 82 mm); the second had six O. mykiss (70-200 

mm); and the third contained three O. mykiss (50, 71, 79 mm) and ten fish seen but not collected (Leidy 2002). The fourth site 

produced four O. mykiss (64-100 mm) with three observed but not collected (>175 mm). The fifth and final site had three O. 

mykiss (60, 89, 105 mm) (Leidy 2002).

In order to develop information regarding life history characteristics of O. mykiss in Calaveras Reservoir, a fish trapping program 

has been developed for the SFPUC. In February-March 2002, a total of eight smolts and 23 adults were collected by fish traps 

operating over the course of ten days in Arroyo Hondo upstream of the reservoir (Entrix 2002). Juvenile O. mykiss were found 

from 98-142 mm FL, while adults ranged from 395-508 mm FL (Entrix 2002).

Trout samples were taken from Arroyo Hondo in 2002 for genetic analysis. Oncorhynchus mykiss using the creek were shown to be 

closely related to previously sampled fish and to native, wild O. mykiss collected in other portions of the watershed (Nielsen 2003).
77

Smith Creek

This creek is tributary to Arroyo Hondo and is about eight miles in length. Smith Creek flows generally north past Mt. Hamilton 

to its confluence with Isabel Creek, when it becomes Arroyo Hondo. A 1905 report notes O. mykiss in Arroyo Hondo (Snyder 

1905). This population was isolated from anadromous O. mykiss by construction of Calaveras Dam. 

A 1940 DFG survey report for the creek noted only that “very good” natural production occurs in one section of Smith Creek 

(Shapovalov 1940a). A DFG field note from July 1953 indicated the presence of O. mykiss fry to 150 mm in length, and called 

the creek “excellent” for trout (CDFG 1953b). These notes also referred to planting of O. mykiss fingerlings in 1952.

A 1957 DFG report noted that rescued juvenile steelhead from Uvas Creek had been planted in the Smith Creek headwaters 

(Pintler 1957). Sampling was performed by seining and electrofishing at a site near Mt. Hamilton Road between 1972 and 1977. 

The survey produced a relative abundance estimate for O. mykiss of “2” on a 5-point scale (Scoppettone and Smith 1977).

DFG visually surveyed five miles of Smith Creek from its mouth upstream to the Highway 130 Bridge. The survey report referred 

to 1993 population surveys that discovered O. mykiss averaging 82 mm in length, with individuals up to 282 mm in length 

present (Boydstun 1994). These surveys yielded a population density estimate of approximately 4,400 individuals per mile. The 

1994 survey found “numerous” YOY, 1+ and 2+ O. mykiss, with the largest up to 250 mm in length. According to the report, the 

stream appeared to be producing a large and healthy O. mykiss population (Boydstun 1994). Spawning areas for O. mykiss were 

noted as “small” and “quite good,” while pool habitats were “very good” (Boydstun 1994).

Leidy electrofished a 30 meter reach on Smith Creek about 220 yards upstream from Mt. Hamilton Road in March 1996 and 

caught two O. mykiss (89, 145mm FL) (Leidy 2002). He also electrofished a 60 meter reach immediately above the road crossing 

in June 1997, catching ten O. mykiss (42-52mm) and observing about 50 more O. mykiss in the same size range (Leidy 2002).

Sulphur Creek

Sulphur Creek is tributary to Smith Creek. A 1940 DFG survey cited a report by Warden C.H. Holladay that excellent natural 

reproduction of O. mykiss occurred in this stream (Shapovalov 1940b).

In May 2002, Leidy surveyed Sulphur Creek from the Smith Creek confluence upstream about 1.5 miles to a natural falls. He 

observed juvenile O. mykiss (25-125 mm TL) to be “common” (10-15 per 30 meters), and noted adults between 200 and 300 mm 

TL (Leidy 2002).

Isabel Creek

Isabel Creek joins Smith Creek to become Arroyo Hondo, which is tributary to Calaveras Reservoir. A 1905 report noted O. 

mykiss in this stream (Snyder 1905). Lake Isabel, constructed in the mid-1940s impounds the creek in the headwaters portion of 

the catchment. The Lake Isabel Dam and the Calaveras Dam isolated O. mykiss populations in upstream and downstream reaches.

According to a July 1948 DFG memorandum, the reach seven miles below the Lake Isabel is intermittent in character but several 

miles of “good” trout habitat exist downstream of the lake (Shapovalov 1948). Department of Fish and Game notes from 1953 
78

referred to the presence of O. mykiss and called the creek “excellent” for rainbow trout (CDFG 1953a). The notes also referred to 

the planting of O. mykiss fingerlings, but did not provide a date of occurrence. A 1957 DFG report noted that rescued juvenile 

steelhead from Uvas Creek had been planted in the Isabel Creek headwaters (Pintler 1957). 

Sampling was performed by seining and electrofishing at a site near Kincaid Road between 1972 and 1977. The survey produced 

a relative abundance estimate for O. mykiss of “4” on a 5-point scale (Scoppettone and Smith 1977). A separate DFG visit was 

performed in June 1975 at this location. Fingerling O. mykiss were observed, and interviews with anglers noted individuals 

150-215 mm taken (Anderson 1975b). The visit report indicated that Isabel Creek rainbow trout were considered a resident 

population as a natural falls downstream (in Arroyo Hondo) prevented passage by fish from Calaveras Reservoir.

A 1998 report concerning steelhead resources notes that a “healthy” O. mykiss population occurs in Isabel Creek (Smith 1998). 

These fish are assumed to be native.

W Tree Creek

W Tree Creek enters Alameda Creek from the north near Camp Ohlone Regional Park. EBRPD staff sampled a 55-meter reach 

of this creek by electrofishing in June 1999. Staff recorded ten O. mykiss (53-60 mm) as well as two “missed” YOY (Alexander 

1995-1999).

Bear Creek (Bear Gulch)

Bear Creek enters Alameda Creek from the north upstream of Camp Ohlone Regional Park. A 1942 DFG stream survey report 

noted that a local landowner had observed trout in this three-mile long creek with perennial flows (Curtis 1942).

Assessment: The Alameda Creek watershed, including numerous tributary catchments, formerly supported O. mykiss populations 

of unknown size. Based on the size of the watershed and the presence of perennial streams in the headwaters, it is likely that this 

catchment supported one of the largest historical steelhead runs in the San Francisco Estuary.

Construction of the Calaveras Dam in the 1920s blocked access to many of the tributaries known to have contained O. mykiss. 

Similarly, San Antonio Dam was constructed without provision for fish passage and this construction led to further restriction of 

habitat in the Alameda Creek watershed. Habitat restriction and degradation from water projects and other development related 

to urbanization caused substantial decline in the population of steelhead entering the watershed to spawn. In the 1970s, flood 

control and water diversion projects in the lower portion main stem Alameda Creek were approved and constructed without 

regard for anadromous fish passage. These structures completely blocked access to suitable spawning and rearing habitat in the 

system.

Nonetheless, small numbers of steelhead continue to enter Alameda Creek regularly, and plans to remove or otherwise mitigate 

migration barriers have been developed. Addressing seven or more barriers in main stem Alameda Creek is likely to allow access 

to spawning and rearing habitat, and may lead to successful re-establishment of a steelhead run in the creek. Non-hybridized 

descendants of Central Coast O. mykiss in San Antonio and Calaveras Reservoirs may be used to jump-start a run in the future.
79

Laguna Creek (Arroyo de la Laguna) Watershed

The Laguna Creek basin covers 25 square miles and has been substantially altered for the purposes of flood control. A map 

from 1870 indicates that Laguna Creek originally flowed from a lagoon that was also the terminus of Mission Creek (Jones & 

Stokes Associates Inc. 2000). Most of Laguna Creek and its tributaries are maintained as flood control channels (Jones & Stokes 

Associates Inc. 2000).

Laguna Creek

Laguna Creek begins at Lake Elizabeth and flows south through Fremont, then west to enter the San Francisco Estuary near Don 

Edwards National Wildlife Refuge. No records related to observations of salmonids were found for Laguna Creek.

Mission Creek

Mission Creek originates in the hills east of Mission San Jose and feeds the current Lake Elizabeth, formerly called Stivers Lagoon. 

Mission Creek was sampled by dipnet near Mission San Jose High School in August 1981 as part of a fish distribution study. No 

O. mykiss were found (Leidy 1984).

Assessment: Insufficient information exists to determine if Mission Creek historically supported populations of Oncorhynchus 

spp. Under present conditions, riparian corridors along Laguna Creek and its tributaries are narrow and discontinuous due to 

portions of the creeks being placed underground, and to the effects of development and flood control practices (Jones & Stokes 

Associates Inc. 2000). The potential for migration of anadromous salmonids through the lower Laguna Creek area appears to be 

very limited.
80

Watershed Stream/ Tributary

Yrs. Surveyed/ Quant. Data

Max. Period of Record

Data

Type

Life Hist. Stage/

No. Yrs. 

Data

Anad.Life-CyclePossible

O. mykiss Evidence

 of Pop. 

Decline

Current 

Pop.Status

References(Pers. Comm.) Hist. Current

Codornices Creek Codornices 9/1 1995- 2003 0, 1, 2 J/8; R/8 Y DF DF - 1, 2, 3 67, 76 (7)

Strawberry Creek Strawberry 0 0 - - N DF NP Y 0 31, 86

Temescal Creek Temescal 1/0 1856 3 - N DF NP Y 0 36Glen Echo Creek Glen Echo 1/0 0 1998 2 - N UNK NP - 0 60Sausal Creek Sausal 6/0 1998- 2002 1,2 J/4; R/3 UNK DF DF Y 1 31, 47, 60, 76, 80, 94

Shepherd 1/1 1998 2 R/1 UNK DF DF Y 1 60, 80Palo Seco 4/1 1997- 2001 0,1,2 J/3; R/1 UNK DF DF Y 1 60, 80 (1)

Peralta Creek Peralta 2/0 0 1998 1, 3 - N UNK NP - 0 60, 76Lion Creek Lion 2/0 1997 0, 2 J/1; R/1 UNK DF DF Y 1 60, 122

Horseshoe 1/1 1998 2 R/1 UNK DF DF Y 1 60Chimes 1/0 0 1998 1 - N UNK NP - 0 60

Arroyo Viejo Creek Arroyo Viejo 2/0 0 1998 0, 2, 3 - N PS NP - 0 60, 76

Table IV-5. Distribution status of O. mykiss in San Francisco Estuary streams of Alameda County, Californiaa
81

Watershed Stream/ Tributary

Yrs. Surveyed/ Quant. Data

Max. Period of Record

Data

Type

Life Hist. Stage/

No. Yrs. 

Data

Anad.Life-CyclePossible

O. mykiss Evidence

 of Pop. 

Decline

Current 

Pop.Status

References(Pers. Comm.) Hist. Current

San Leandro Creek San Leandro 20/14 1855- 2001 1, 2, 3 J/14; M/1; R/16 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3

4-6, 18, 19, 23, 31-33, 37, 44, 57, 63, 64, 66, 68, 75-77, 86, 100, 103

Miller 1/0 0 1993 2 - N UNK UNK - 0 64

Kaiser 8/7 1983- 2000 2, 3 J/7; R/7 N DF DF - 1, 2, 3 4, 5, 7, 22, 37, 48, 57, 68, 101

Buckhorn 4/0 2001- 2002 1, 2, 3 R/2 N DF DF Y 1 4, 7, 37, 57, 68 (8)

Redwood 17/15 1972- 2002 1, 2, 3 J/16; R/14 N DF DF Y 1, 2, 3

3-6, 18, 22, 26, 36-38, 48, 56, 58, 61, 62, 64, 68, 71, 77, 88-91, 102

Moraga 7/5 1987- 2000 2, 3 J/4; R/3 N DF DF Y 1, 2 37, 40, 51, 65, 68, 76, 121, 

Indian 8/6 1981- 97 2, 3 J/5; R/5 N DF DF Y 1 4-6, 48, 57, 68, 76, 77

San Lorenzo Creek San Lorenzo 9/1 1942- 2002 0, 1, 3 J/1; R/3; M/4 N DF DF Y 1

2, 10, 12, 15, 34, 39, 59, 73, 76, 113, 115(2)

Castro Valley 2/0 1998 2001 1 R/1 N DF NP - 0 2, (4)Crow 4/2 1960- 2002 0, 1, 3 R/2 N DF DF Y 1 2, 10, 12, 17, 35, 39, 76, 115Cull 4/0 1958 2001 0, 1,3 J/1 N DF NP Y 0 2, 9, 76, 93, 115
82

Watershed Stream/ Tributary

Yrs. Surveyed/ Quant. Data

Max. Period of Record

Data

Type

Life Hist. Stage/

No. Yrs. 

Data

Anad.Life-CyclePossible

O. mykiss Evidence

 of Pop. 

Decline

Current 

Pop.Status

References(Pers. Comm.) Hist. Current

Palomares 5/1

1960- 

87

2001

0, 1, 2 J/1 N DF NP Y 0 2, 11, 53, 76, 77

Eden Canyon 2/0 0 2001 1,3 - N PS NP Y 0 2, 13, 76

Alameda Creek Alameda 18/9 1938- 2002 0, 1, 2, 3 J/10; R/9; M/11 N DF DF Y 1, 2, 3

1, 8, 10, 20, 52, 56, 77, 85, 87, 92, 99, 105, 123(6)

Dry 0/0 0 - - N PB NP - 0 (5)

Stonybrook 5/4 1955- 2000 0, 2, 3 J/3; R/4; M/1 N DF DF Y 1, 2 8, 10, 21, 45, 46, 52, 83, 98Sinbad 2/0

1940s1950s

1999

2, 3 M/1 N DF NP Y 0 8, 84

Arroyo de la Laguna 6/0 0 1996 2 - N DF NP Y 0 49, 77, 82, 95, 96, 115, 118Vallecitos 1/0 0 1993 2 - N UNK NP - 0 (1)Arroyo Valle 7/2

1910-

1953

1999

0, 1, 2, 3 M/2 N DF NP Y 0 8, 27, 50, 56, 77, 115

Trout 1/0 1944 1 - N DF UNK - 0 112Colorado 1/1 1981 1 - N DF UNK - 0 76
83

Watershed Stream/ Tributary

Yrs. Surveyed/ Quant. Data

Max. Period of Record

Data

Type

Life Hist. Stage/

No. Yrs. 

Data

Anad.Life-CyclePossible

O. mykiss Evidence

 of Pop. 

Decline

Current 

Pop.Status

References(Pers. Comm.) Hist. Current

Arroyo Bayo 0 0 - - N UNK NP - 0 (3)

San Antonio 0 0 - - N UNK NP - 0 (3)Beau-regard 0 0 - - N UNK NP - 0 (3)Arroyo Mocho 11/2 1911- 2001 1, 2, 3 J/2; R/4 N DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 56, 77, 79, 87, 97, 99, 111, 115

 Tassajara 1/0

0

1994

2 - N UNK NP - 0

77

(3)

Arroyo Las Positas 1/0

0

1999

1

- N

PB NP - 0 56, 115

Cayetano 1/0

0

1999

- - N UNK NP - 0 56

South San Ramon 0 0 - - N UNK NP - 0 (3)San Antonio 2/2 1954- 97 0, 2, 3 J/2; S/1; R/1 N DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 10, 41, 43, 77, 87 

Indian 2/1 1953- 97 1, 2, 3 J/2; R/1 N DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 10, 69, 70, 77La Costa 2/1 1938- 93 1, 2 J/2 N DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 10, 77, 107Indian Joe 2/2 1997- 99 0, 2, 3 J/2; N DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 8, 74
84

Watershed Stream/ Tributary

Yrs. Surveyed/ Quant. Data

Max. Period of Record

Data

Type

Life Hist. Stage/

No. Yrs. 

Data

Anad.Life-CyclePossible

O. mykiss Evidence

 of Pop. 

Decline

Current 

Pop.Status

References(Pers. Comm.) Hist. Current

Calaveras 4/1 1938- 2002 1, 2, 3 J/1; R/1 N DF DF Y 1 14, 30, 54, 81, 106, 110, 119, 120

Arroyo Hondo 6/3 1905- 2002 1, 2, 3 J/2; R/2; S/1 N DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 41, 42, 77, 87, 99, 104, 117, 

Smith 8/5 1905- 97 1, 2, 3 J/6; R/3 N DF DF - 1, 2, 3 24, 29, 77, 92, 99, 108, 117

Sulphur 2/1 1940- 2002 1 J/1; R/1 N DF DF - 1, 2, 3 77, 109Isabel 6/2 1905- 2002 0, 1, 2, 3 J/1; R/1 N DF DF - 1, 2, 3 16, 28, 92, 99, 114, 116, 117W Tree 1/1 1999 2 J/1 N DF DF - 1 8

Bear Gulch 1/0 1942 0 - N DF PS - 1 32

Laguna Creek Mission 1/0 0 1981 3 - N UNK NP - 0 76

a Table headings and codes are defined in the Methods section of this report.
85

1. Aceituno, M. E., M. L. Caywood, S. J. Nicola, and W. I. Follett. 1976. Occurrence of native fishes in Alameda and 

Coyote Creeks, California. California Fish and Game 62(3):195-206.

2. ACFCWCD, and HES. 2002. Fish habitat and fish population assessment for the San Lorenzo Creek Watershed, 

Alameda County, California. ACFCWCD, Hayward, California.

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51. Gray, F., CDFG. 1987a. Memo to file. Re: Fish Population Sampling, Moraga Creek, Contra Costa County. 

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53. Gray, F., CDFG. 1987c. Letter to T. Palmisano. Re: Salmon and trout habitat in Alameda and Contra Costa County. 

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87

55. Gray, F., CDFG. 1988b. Memo to file. Re: Fish Population Sampling, Alameda Creek, Alameda County. Dated 

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60. Hagar, J., and F. Demgen. 1998. Aquatic resource inventory of Oakland streams. City of Oakland, Oakland, CA.

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69. Johnson, W. C., CDFG. 1953a. Field Note: Indian Creek. Report dated August 19.

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72. Kier, W. 2002. Codornices Creek migrant trap captures, 2002. Kier Associates, San Rafael, CA.

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74. Larson, G. J., Jr. 2000. Letter to J. Freemire, Sunol Regional Wilderness. Dated May 24.

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77. Leidy, R. A., USEPA. 2002. Unpublished stream survey data 1992-2002.

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82. Michny, F., and G. Ging, CDFG. 1975. Field Note: Arroyo de la Laguna electroshocking. Report dated November 13.
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83. Miller, J., Alameda Creek Alliance. PDF: Press release dated March 25, 1999: “Stella the steelhead” in Stonybrook 

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84. Mills, R. n.d. Photograph: Historical photographs of salmonids caught in the Alameda Creek watershed, circa 

1940s-1950s.

85. Murphy, K., and N. Sidhom. 1995. DRAFT: Alameda Creek, Alameda County, Stream Inventory Report. CDFG.

86. Needham, P. R., and R. Gard. 1959. Rainbow trout in Mexico and California with notes on the Cutthroat series. 

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87. Nielsen, J. L. 2003. Population genetic structure of Alameda Creek Rainbow/Steelhead Trout - 2002. U.S. Geological 

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88. Paulsen, I. L., CDFG. 1979. Memo to Fisheries Management Region 3. Re: Fish Population Sampling, Redwood 

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89. Paulsen, I. L., CDFG. 1980. Memo to Fisheries Management Region 3. Re: Electroshocker Sampling of Redwood 

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90. Paulsen, I. L., N. Gacoka, and S. G. Torres, CDFG. 1978a. Memo to Fisheries Management Region 3. Re: Fish 

Population Sampling, Redwood Creek, Alameda County; June 6, 1978. Dated June 21.

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92. Pintler, H. E., CDFG. 1957. Stream Survey Alameda Creek. Report dated May 16.

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96. Scoppettone, G., CDFG. 1976b. Memo to Fisheries Management Region 3. Re: Fish Population Sampling, Arroyo de 

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97. Scoppettone, G., CDFG. 1976c. Memo to Fisheries Management Region 3. Re: Fish Population Sampling, Arroyo 

Mocho Creek, Alameda Creek. Dated February 19.

98. Scoppettone, G., CDFG. 1976d. Memo to Fisheries Management Region 3. Re: Fish Population Sampling, 

Stonybrook Canyon Creek (tributary to Alameda Creek), Alameda County; April 8, 1976. Dated May 13.

99. Scoppettone, G., and J. Smith. 1977. Additional records on the distribution and status of native fishes in Alameda and 

Coyote Creeks, California. California Fish and Game: 62-65.

100. Setka, J., EBMUD. 2000. Electofishing data sheets from San Leandro Creek at San Leandro City Park below Lake 

Chabot, March - December, 2000.

101. Setka, J., EBMUD. 2003a. Electrofishing data from Kaiser Creek, March 1998 - January 2000.

102. Setka, J., EBMUD. 2003b. Electrofishing data from Redwood Creek, March 1999 - April 2002.

103. Setka, J., EBMUD. 2003c. Electrofishing data from Upper San Leandro Reservoir, June 1996 - February 2001.

104. Shapovalov, L., CDFG. 1937. Letter to C. E. Holladay. Re: Trout scales from Arroyo Hondo. Dated May 19.

105. Shapovalov, L., CDFG. 1938a. Field Note: Alameda Creek. Report dated May - November.

106. Shapovalov, L., CDFG. 1938b. Stream Survey Calaveras Creek. Report dated May 19.

107. Shapovalov, L., CDFG. 1938c. Stream Survey La Costa Creek. Report dated May 19.

108. Shapovalov, L., CDFG. 1940a. Stream Survey Smith Creek. Report dated February 14.

109. Shapovalov, L., CDFG. 1940b. Stream Survey Sulphur Creek. Report dated February 14.
89

110. Shapovalov, L., CDFG. 1943. Lake Survey Calaveras Reservoir. Report dated June 7.

111. Shapovalov, L., CDFG. 1944a. Stream Survey Arroyo Mocho Creek. Report dated November 18.

112. Shapovalov, L., CDFG. 1944b. Stream Survey Trout Creek.

113. Shapovalov, L., CDFG. 1946. Stream Survey San Lorenzo Creek. Report dated April 23.

114. Shapovalov, L., CDFG. 1948. Farm Pond Record. Report dated May 10.

115. Skinner, J. E. 1962. Fish and Wildlife Resources of the San Francisco Bay Area.

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and modern topographic maps. Map: Oakland Museum of California, 1995.

119. Strohschein, W. E., CDFG. 1973a. Memo to Fisheries Management Region 3. Re: Calaveras Reservoir, Santa Clara 

County; Gill Netting Results, August 29-30, 1973. Dated September 6.

120. Strohschein, W. E., CDFG. 1973b. Memo to Fisheries Management Region 3. Re: Calaveras Reservoir, Santa Clara 

County; Gill Netting Results, October 29-30, 1973. Dated November 26.

121. Strohschein, W. E., and K. R. Anderson, CDFG. 1974. Memo and report to Fisheries Management Region 3. Re: 

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September 1974.

122. Trapp, J., City of Oakland. 1997. Letter to P. Alexander, EBRPD. Re: Summary of observations on Oakland Creeks. 

Dated November 3.

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System Planning and Regulatory Compliance, Public Utilities Commission, City and County of San Francisco.

1. Alexander, P., EBRPD, telephone conversation with G. Becker, CEMAR, December 2, 2002.

2. da Costa, M., ACFCWCD, e-mail correspondence with G. Becker, CEMAR, May 14, 2002, regarding San Lorenzo 

Creek Rainbow Trout.

3. Hale, J., telephone conversation with G. Becker, CEMAR, September 29, 2003, regarding habitat observations in Contra 

Costa and Alameda Counties.

4. Kobernus, L. P., e-mail correspondence with G. Becker, CEMAR, July 15, 2002, regarding steelhead in San 

Lorenzo Creek.

5. McGinnis, S., telephone conversation with G. Becker, CEMAR, September 28, 2003, regarding current and historic use 

of Dry Creek by salmonids.

6. Miller, J., Alameda Creek Alliance, telephone conversation with G. Becker, CEMAR, October 30, 2002.

7. Schwartz, S., Friends of Five Creeks, e-mail correspondence with G. Becker, CEMAR, June 27, 2002, regarding 

steelhead documentation.

8. Setka, J., EBMUD, telephone conversation with G. Becker, CEMAR, September 26, 2003, regarding Buckhorn 

Creek fisheries.

Personal Communications
90
91

ALAMEDA COUNTY MAPS

Historical status of Oncorhynchus mykiss in streams of Alameda County, Caliornia. 

Current status of Oncorhynchus mykiss in streams of Alameda County, Caliornia. 
92
97

SANTA CLARA COUNTY

Coyote Creek Watershed

Coyote Creek originates on the slopes of Mount Sizer near Henry Coe State Park and flows generally south and west to the Santa 

Clara Valley. Near the site of Coyote Reservoir, the creek turns to flow north to enter the southern San Francisco Estuary near 

Dixon Landing Road. The main stem consists of approximately 42 miles of stream channel, and the creek has approximately ten 

primary tributaries. The watershed area is about 354 square miles.

Coyote Creek

Snyder documented the occurrence of Salmo irideus (O. mykiss) from collections likely made in 1898 from two locations in lower 

Coyote Creek (Snyder 1905). He described O. mykiss near the mouth and near the city of San Jose, indicating that the lower creek 

historically contained suitable habitat. A museum O. mykiss specimen from an unknown Coyote Creek location was collected by 

Synder in 1898, and is designated “Santa Clara Co., Cal.” (Snyder 1898).

Oncorhynchus mykiss was collected from upper Coyote Creek in the canyon east of the Town of Madrone (located within present 

day Morgan Hill) in 1936 (Fry 1936). In 1936, drawdown of Coyote Reservoir caused fill kills (including O. mykiss) both 

upstream and downstream of the dam (Shapovalov 1937). Fish downstream of the dam are likely to have been of wild origin, 

while upstream fish may have been stocked brown trout or landlocked wild O. mykiss.

A DFG stocking record from June 1938 documents the planting of more than 1,000 steelhead rescued from Uvas Creek in the 

adjacent Pajaro River watershed into Coyote Reservoir (CDFG 1938b). Brown trout also were planted in the reservoir during 

June-July 1938. Sixteen steelhead ranging in size from 343-445 mm FL were found dead at the outlet of Coyote Reservoir when it 

was drained in January 1939 (Shapovalov 1938-1942). The following summer (July 1940) trout as large as 330 mm were caught 

in the reservoir. These fish presumably originated from the upper Coyote Creek watershed and migrated downstream to the 

reservoir during winter flows (Shapovalov 1938-1942). Scale analysis of four O. mykiss (200-345 mm) taken in Coyote Reservoir 

in May 1941 indicated that researchers were not able to distinguish between wild and hatchery fish (Shapovalov 1938-1942).

An additional 1,500 rescued O. mykiss were planted in Coyote Reservoir in the summer of 1942 (Shapovalov 1938-1942). An 

August 1945 seine survey produced O. mykiss off Highway 101, 1.5 miles north of the town of Coyote at a concrete dam (1: 

“one-third grown”) and also at the junction of Malaguira Road and Cochran Road, between Madrone and Morgan Hill (1: “half 

grown”) (Simpson and Simpson 1945). In 1946, DFG stated that a run of steelhead entered Coyote Creek and that the natural 

propagation in the system was adequate to fill the reduced carrying capacity of the stream due to water diversions and pollution 

(Shapovalov 1946a).

A 1953 DFG field note reported a healthy trout fishery in upper Coyote Creek upstream of Anderson and Coyote Reservoirs 

(Pintler 1953). Seven stations along Coyote Creek were sampled by DFG in July 1953. Two fingerling O. mykiss were collected 

downstream of the junction of Gilroy Hot Springs and Canada roads (Merkel 1953).
98

In January 1962, DFG searched Coyote Creek for dead fish between Coyote and Anderson Reservoir after rotenone use in Coyote 

Reservoir. No fish of any kind were found (Hinton 1962c). A March 1965 DFG survey of the 8.2-mile reach upstream from 

Coyote Reservoir noted two O. mykiss (125-150 mm). The resulting survey report stated that the stream section had little or no 

fisheries importance (Brackett 1965). The report also noted on-going stocking in Coyote Reservoir.

In a 1962 report, Skinner indicated that Coyote Creek, from its mouth to the headwaters in Henry Coe State Park, was an 

historical migration route and habitat for steelhead (Skinner 1962). At that time, the creek was said to be “lightly used” as 

steelhead habitat (Skinner 1962).

Sampling by seine and electrofishing was performed between 1972 and 1977 at 14 Coyote Creek sites, with O. mykiss collected at 

one location on the middle fork in Coe State Park (Scoppettone and Smith 1977). The resulting report ranked relative abundance 

at “2” on a 1-5 scale (Scoppettone and Smith 1977).

The Department of Fish and Game electrofished four Coyote Creek stations between the seasonal diversion dam near the 

mouth and Anderson Reservoir in June 1973. Oncorhynchus mykiss (1: 201 mm FL) was found only at the station immediately 

downstream from Anderson Reservoir (Aceituno et al. 1976).

One O. mykiss was recorded in a creel census in Anderson Reservoir in March 1974 (Anderson 1974). The Department of Fish 

and Game speculated that Anderson Reservoir O. mykiss were probably emigrants from upstream Coyote Reservoir where DFG 

had conducted trout-stocking (Anderson 1976).

A study of Upper Coyote Creek and numerous headwater tributaries within Henry Coe State Park identified O. mykiss in June 

and July 1974. A total of seven individuals were sampled between 185 and 275 mm FL, with four trout found dead (Guzzetta 

1974).

In September 1975, DFG electrofished seven Coyote Creek stations between Highway 237 and Hellyer Park at the Highway 101 

bridge. No O. mykiss were collected in the sampling (Curtis and Scoppettone 1977). A subsequent stream survey report noted 

that Coyote Creek historically was a steelhead stream but apparently no longer supported a viable steelhead resource due to flow 

regulation, habitat alteration, and pollution (Curtis and Scoppettone 1977). However, the report noted that the upper reaches of 

Coyote Creek were known to support populations of rainbow trout. A May 1976 DFG memorandum included O. mykiss in an 

ichthyofaunal list for Anderson Reservoir, but noted the species’ likely source as emigrants from upstream Coyote Reservoir where 

DFG conducted a trout stocking (Anderson 1976).

In March 1978, O. mykiss were found dead downstream from the Coyote Canal Diversion Dam when all flow was shunted into 

the associated canal (Meltzer 1978). The Department of Fish and Game reported that releases from Anderson Reservoir (1.2 miles 

upstream from the diversion dam) into the natural stream channel normally provided approximately five miles of live stream in 

which some trout were present (Anderson 1978).

Oncorhynchus mykiss were found in a creel census of Coyote Reservoir in July 1980 (Eimoto and Berthelsen 1983). These fish were 

likely from DFG stocking activities.
99

The Santa Clara Valley Water District sponsored a study to sample numerous Coyote Creek locations in 1987 and the results 

are summarized in Table V-1. The report describing this sampling effort noted that lower Coyote Creek is the only portion of 

the watershed with sufficient flows for steelhead and salmon access and spawning (HSA 1988). The report stated that a small 

steelhead run apparently still existed in Coyote Creek, but cited regulated stream flows and barriers as restricting salmon and 

steelhead utilization upstream of Senter Road (HSA 1988).

Table V-1. Santa Clara Valley Water District O. mykiss collections in Coyote Creek, 1987

Method Number Size

(mm SL)

May

Upstream of Dixon Landing Rd. Gill net 3 “smolts” 153, 191, 207

Tidal area u/s of flashboard dam Gill net 1 “partial smolt” 134

August

U/s of Dixon Landing Rd. Gill net 1 193

Tidal area u/s of flashboard dam Gill net 3 175, 200, 245

October

Tidal area u/s of flashboard dam Gill net 1 395

300 m reach u/s of Old Oakland Rd. Electrofish 1

1 Age 2-3+

YOY

178

286

unmeasured

(Source: HSA 1988)

The Metcalf Percolation Pond and percolation ponds upstream from Ford Road on Coyote Creek were sampled in August 1990. 

Four O. mykiss were collected at each location (Elsey 1990). The Santa Clara Valley Water District sponsored a study to sample 

Coyote Creek between November 1990 and September 1991 to study the impact on O. tshawytscha and O. mykiss of summer 

spreader dams used for groundwater percolation. No adult salmonids were found during the surveys, although one steelhead redd 

was found in Coyote Creek near the Upper Penitencia Creek confluence (HRG 1992). Electrofishing in the vicinity of the redd in 

April and May 1991 did not find juvenile O. mykiss.

Leidy electrofished six locations on lower Coyote Creek in August and September 1993, from Kelly Park, upstream from the 

Interstate 280 crossing, to Anderson Dam. Immediately downstream from Anderson Dam he found a single O. mykiss (275 mm 

FL) (Leidy 2002). Leidy also electrofished a location on upper Coyote Creek just upstream from the entrance to Henry Coe State 

Park, but found no O. mykiss (Leidy 2002).

Additional monitoring conducted as part of the SCVWD spreader dam studies was summarized in 1994. No O. mykiss were 

directly observed during the winter migration season of 1992-1993 (HRG 1994). Gillnetting in Metcalf Pond in Coyote Creek 

captured a few O. mykiss (two to five individuals) (HRG 1994). The report identified three fish ladders at Ford Road Dam as 

seasonal passage barriers and Metcalf Radial Dam as impassable under all flow conditions. In a summary of five years of sampling, 

SCVWD noted that electrofishing, gill net and seine sampling associated with the monitoring found a few (2-5) O. mykiss of 

suspected hatchery origin in Metcalf Pond in 1993 as well as a few O. mykiss in two ponds upstream of Ford Road in 1990 

(HRG 1995).
100

In March 1994, Leidy electrofished two locations on lower Coyote Creek, one upstream of South Coyote and one downstream 

of Coyote, and found no O. mykiss (Leidy 2002). He electrofished four sites on lower Coyote Creek between the Montague 

Expressway and South Coyote in July 1995, finding no O. mykiss (Leidy 2002). Leidy also found no O. mykiss when he 

electrofished three sites on mainstem upper Coyote Creek in August 1995 between the Gilroy Hot Springs Road crossing and the 

point where the park road leaves the creek towards Coit Camp (approximately 2.5 miles upstream) (Leidy 2002).

The Santa Clara Valley Water District sponsored a study to sample lower Coyote Creek in October 1995 in association with 

operation of Standish Dam (that includes a fish ladder). No salmonids were captured during the sampling (Jones & Stokes 

Associates Inc. 1996). The Santa Clara Valley Water District conducted fyke-net surveys in lower Coyote Creek between April 

1997 and June 1998. In May 1997, 14 juvenile and 51 YOY O. mykiss were found. 

Fyke net sampling of lower Coyote Creek was conducted in May 1998 as part of a stormwater environmental indicators 

demonstration project. Five juvenile O. mykiss were collected (Eisenberg 1999).

A 1998 paper by Smith described the use of western Mt. Hamilton streams, including Coyote Creek. He found that steelhead 

were extremely rare in this system, with habitat on mainstem Coyote Creek largely restricted to the area from Anderson Reservoir 

downstream to a series of instream percolation ponds (Smith 1998). According to Smith, operation of these ponds can “restrict or 

block out migration downstream . . . during April and May of all but the wettest years” (Smith 1998, p. 8).

From 1998 to 2000, SCVWD monitored both upstream and downstream migrating salmonids to determine if Standish Dam 

was either an impediment to passage, or detrimental to spawning and rearing habitat. Downstream traps were set during the 

2-2.5 month period spanning dam installation (in May) and upstream traps were set during the 2-2.5 month period spanning 

dam removal (in October). A total of 15, 159, and 253 out-migrating steelhead smolts were captured in 1998, 1999 and 2000, 

respectively, along with two steelhead kelts (out-migrating adults) in 1999 (Roessler et al. 2001). In 1999 and 2000, zero and two 

steelhead adults were captured, respectively (Roessler et al. 2001).

The SCVWD migration study determined that Standish Dam posed a seasonal barrier for migrating fish and may harm smolts 

adapting to salt water by impounding fresh water (Roessler et al. 2001). Based on these results, Standish Dam has not been 

installed since 2000 (Roessler et al. 2001).

As part of an environmental indicators testing project, the Santa Clara Valley Urban Runoff Pollution Prevent Program sampled 

14 Coyote Creek stations in May-June, late June, and September-October 1999. According to the summary report, O. mykiss

were collected throughout the length the creek (Demgen and Dorsey 1999). Five locations downstream from Metcalf Dam 

produced a total of 11 O. mykiss in approximately 1,500 meters of area sampled in the three events, while a single site between 

Metcalf and Anderson Reservoir produced four individuals in approximately 300 meters of collectively sampled stream length. 

Upstream of Anderson Reservoir, 31 O. mykiss were collected in three sampling events at three sites representing approximately 

900 meters of reach sampled (Demgen and Dorsey 1999). Sampling in late June and September-October recorded 19 O. mykiss

(47-250 mm FL) and four O. mykiss (175-253 mm FL), respectively (Demgen and Dorsey 1999).
101

In 1999, a fish ladder was installed on Metcalf Dam. No monitoring of passage has occurred since construction, but in 2000, 

O. mykiss were observed between Metcalf Dam and Anderson Dam (J. Abel pers. comm.). Leidy electrofished a single site 

immediately upstream of Enterprise-Concourse Drive in July 2000. No O. mykiss were found (Leidy 2002).

Lower Penitencia Creek

Lower Penitencia Creek consists of approximately four miles of channel draining approximately 27 square miles. It has one direct 

tributary, Berryessa Creek.

A June 1975 DFG stream survey reported that the headwaters of Lower Penitencia Creek had been filled for urban and 

agricultural use, and that the remaining channel had been altered and re-aligned for its entire length to serve as a storm runoff 

channel (Curtis and Scoppettone 1975a). No salmonids were noted during the survey and the summary report stated that the 

reach upstream from tidal influence had no fishery value (Curtis and Scoppettone 1975a).

Berryessa Creek

Berryessa Creek consists of approximately ten miles of channel tributary to Lower Penitencia Creek. It drains an area of 

approximately 22 square miles. Tributaries include Calera Creek and Arroyo de los Coches.

In June 1975, DFG visually surveyed 7.8 miles of Berryessa Creek from near its headwaters to its mouth. The survey report stated 

that the portion of the creek serving the trout fishery was limited to the lower-most, tidal 200-300 feet (Curtis and Scoppettone 

1975c). The Department of Fish and Game noted that on the valley floor, Berryessa Creek is almost entirely channelized 

including several drop structures (Curtis and Scoppettone 1975c).

Dipnet sampling was conducted in August 1981 at North Main Street as part of a fish distribution study. No O. mykiss were 

collected (Leidy 1981-1984, 1984).

Calera Creek

Calera Creek is tributary to Berryessa Creek and drains an area of approximately three square miles. The creek contains 

approximately three miles of channel (SCBWMI 2001).

The Department of Fish and Game sampled two Arroyo Colero (Calera Creek) sites in July 1953 and did not encounter 

salmonids (Merkel 1953). In July 1975, DFG visually surveyed 2.7 miles of Calera Creek from near its headwaters to its mouth. 

The survey report found that the creek had no “direct” fishery functions and noted channelization of the valley floor reach 

(Scoppettone and Curtis 1975a).

Calera Creek was sampled as part of a fish distribution study at Jose Hueguera Park in August 1981. No salmonids were 

encountered (Leidy 1981-1984, 1984).
102

Arroyo de los Coches

Arroyo de los Coches is tributary to Berryessa Creek and drains an area of approximately four square miles. The creek consists of 

approximately 3.4 miles of channel (SCBWMI 2001).

In July 1975, DFG visually surveyed four sites on Arroyo de los Coches Creek between its headwaters and mouth. The survey 

report noted channelization of the creek for flood protection and land development in the valley floor. No fish were observed 

during the survey, and DFG concluded that the creek appeared to have no immediate fishery function (Curtis and Scoppettone 

1975b).

Arroyo de los Coches was sampled by dipnet for a fish distribution study near the Interstate 680/Calaveras Road on-ramp in 

August 1981. No O. mykiss were collected (Leidy 1981-1984, 1984).

Upper Penitencia Creek (Alum Rock Creek)

Upper Penitencia Creek drains an area of approximately 24 square miles and includes approximately 11 miles of channel. It has 

one major tributary, Arroyo Aguague, and one major impoundment, Cherry Flat Reservoir (SCBWMI 2001).

In 1946, DFG noted a run of steelhead spawned in Penitencia Creek, and cited the presence of “impassable falls” (approximately 

0.3 miles above confluence with Arroyo Aguague) upstream from which stocking was performed every third year (Shapovalov 

1946a). The Department of Fish and Game sampled two Penitencia Creek sites in July 1953 and did not encounter salmonids 

(Merkel 1953). However, a 1954 DFG field note stated that a few wild trout were present in the stream (Evans 1954).

In a 1962 report, Skinner indicated Penitencia Creek as an historical migration route and habitat for steelhead (Skinner 1962). At 

that time, the creek was said to be “lightly used” as steelhead habitat (Skinner 1962). 

In June 1975, DFG visually surveyed Upper Penitencia Creek between the Coyote Creek confluence and Cherry Flat Reservoir. 

One O. mykiss (178 mm) was noted approximately one mile downstream of the reservoir (Curtis and Scoppettone 1975l). 

Numerous O. mykiss fry were sighted at and downstream from the Arroyo Aguague confluence to the western boundary of 

Alum Rock Park (Curtis and Scoppettone 1975l). These fish were approximately 40 mm in length and occurred at a density of 

approximately 50-60 fish per 30 meters in some areas (Curtis and Scoppettone 1975l). Numerous migration barriers in the creek 

also were noted. The survey report concluded that channel alteration and sedimentation made the valley portion of the channel of 

little fishery function, but that the upper canyon reach was a unique fishery resource with ample spawning and rearing habitat for 

O. mykiss (Curtis and Scoppettone 1975a).

Two Upper Penitencia Creek sites were sampled by seining and electrofishing between 1972 and 1977. The survey report included 

a relative abundance estimate for O. mykiss of “1” at Alum Rock Park on a scale of 1-5, with “5” indicating highest abundance 

(Scoppettone and Smith 1977).

The Department of Fish and Game and the Soil Conservation Service conducted an electrofishing survey of Upper Penitencia 

Creek in June 1984. The study report found age 1+ and 2+ steelhead to be fairly abundant in the upper reach (i.e., Alum Rock 

Park to Toyon) (Gray 1984).
103

The Department of Fish and Game summarized anadromous fish utilization of several Santa Clara County creeks in 1988 based 

on previous collections. Salmonids in Upper Penitencia Creek were reported as shown in Table V-2. In addition, the report 

identified potential barriers at the steeply sloping culvert under the ford at Quail Hollow in Alum Rock Park and at a four and 

one-half foot drop structure with a four to five foot deep plunge pool located 150 yards upstream of the Quail Hollow ford 

(Ulmer 1988).

Table V-2. Summary of sampling, Upper Penitencia Creek, 1986-87

Location Method Collected

(size range)

Feb. 1986 Quail Hollow in 

Alum Rock Park

Collected dead Ripe female O. mykiss

(640 mm TL)

Late 1986 White & Penitencia Rds. Collected dead 2 “adult salmonids”

Aug. 1987 Downstream of 

percolation pond outlet

Electrofishing 5 O. mykiss

(95-105 mm TL)

Nov. 1987 Upstream of 

Doral Rd. bridge

Captured 5O. mykiss

(120-215 mm SL)

(Source: Ulmer 1988)

In August 1987, 50 meters of Upper Penitencia Creek adjacent to SCVWD percolation ponds was electrofished, producing two 

O. mykiss (87, 122 mm SL) (HSA 1988). The resulting report stated that a small steelhead run apparently still existed in Upper 

Penitencia Creek (HSA 1988).

The Santa Clara Valley Water District sponsored a study to sample Upper Penitencia Creek between November 1990 and 

September 1991 to study the impact of constructing seasonal spreader dams on O. tshawytscha and O. mykiss. No adult salmonids 

were found during the surveys, although two steelhead redds were found in Upper Penitencia Creek near the western edge of 

Alum Rock Park (HRG 1992). Electrofishing in the vicinity of the redds in April and May 1991 did not find juvenile O. mykiss.

The Santa Clara Valley Water District sponsored electrofishing at the following sites and years: at Dorel Drive in 1990 and 1991, 

Noble Avenue in 1990, upstream of White Road in 1991 and 1992, and downstream of the bridge in Alum Rock Park and at 

Linda Vista Street from 1991-1994. No O. mykiss were collected (HRG 1995).

In May 1997, SCVWD electrofished Upper Penitencia Creek between Dorel Drive and Alum Rock Park. Eleven steelhead smolts 

(115-180 mm SL) and 33 steelhead YOY (50-69 mm SL) were captured (Salsbery and Abel 1998). An Alum Rock Park site and 

a Dorel Drive site also were sampled by Smith in May 1997. He collected 23 juvenile O. mykiss (45-64 mm SL) and 42 larger 

individuals (100-239 mmSL) at the Alum Rock site; the Dorel Drive site produced 36 juvenile O. mykiss (50-69 mm SL) and 

(Smith 1997).

According to SCVWD staff, Stacy Li found O. mykiss in Upper Penitencia Creek in 2000 (J. Abel pers. comm.). A management 

plan for Alum Rock Park was published in April 2001 and included a review of biological resources. The plan stated, “Steelhead 
104

are known to spawn and rear in Upper Penitencia Creek within Alum Rock Park. These steelhead coexist with a resident 

population of rainbow trout” (BRG 2001).

Arroyo Aguague

Arroyo Aguague Creek is tributary to Upper Penitencia Creek. The creek drains an area of approximately nine square miles and 

includes approximately 15 miles of channel (SCBWMI 2001). A natural waterfall near the boundary of Alum Rock Park prevents 

anadromous fish passage. 

One site on Arroyo Aguague 0.6 miles upstream from the mouth was seined and electrofished between 1972 and 1977. The study 

produced a relative abundance estimate for O. mykiss of “3” on a scale from 1 to 5 (Scoppettone and Smith 1977).

In September 1975, DFG visually surveyed Arroyo Aguague between the mouth and headwaters. Oncorhynchus mykiss was present 

upstream and downstream from a natural falls where sufficient habitat existed to support populations (Scoppettone and Curtis 

1975b). The falls referred to in the survey report have a 15-foot drop and occur 1.2 miles upstream from the confluence with 

Upper Penitencia Creek. Additional barriers associated with land use activities occurred in the system.

According to the 1975 DFG survey report, electrofishing near the mouth revealed an age structure that suggested possible 

steelhead utilization of the stream (Scoppettone and Curtis 1975b). In a 30-meter reach, 63 O. mykiss were collected (45: 38-64 

mm; 8: ~75 mm; 2: ~125 mm; 8: ~180 mm) (Scoppettone and Curtis 1975b). The Department of Fish and Game stated that 

Arroyo Aguague and Upper Penitencia Creek appeared to support the most significant fishery resource of all the tributary streams 

to lower Coyote Creek (Scoppettone and Curtis 1975b).

Surveys conducted in 1999 found resident O. mykiss upstream from the falls and “abundant” potentially anadromous O. mykiss

downstream from this barrier (Buchan et al. 1999). The creek was referred to as containing “regionally significant” steelhead 

spawning and rearing habitat in a 1999 report on western Mt. Hamilton streams (Buchan et al. 1999). 

Lower Silver Creek

Lower Silver Creek drains an area of approximately 44 square miles and includes approximately seven miles of channel (SCBWMI 

2001). Tributaries include North Babb Creek, South Babb Creek, Flint Creek, and Thompson Creek. In the 1970s, the East Zone 

Flood Project connected many of these tributaries to Thompson Creek/Lower Silver Creek to provide storm drainage for urban 

development (Curtis and Scoppettone 1975g).

In a 1962 report, Skinner indicated Lower Silver Creek as an historical migration route and habitat for steelhead (Skinner 1962). 

At that time, the creek was said to be “lightly used” as steelhead habitat (Skinner 1962).

In July 1975, DFG visually surveyed a 6.3-mile reach of Lower Silver Creek between the mouth and the Thompson Creek 

confluence. Lower Silver Creek was characterized as an altered channel of little function for fisheries, and no O. mykiss were 

observed (Curtis and Scoppettone 1975g).
105

Fish sampling was performed in numerous Santa Clara Valley creeks in September and October of 1999. A station coded “U3” on 

Lower Silver Creek produced two O. mykiss (235, 253 mm FL) (Demgen and Dorsey 1999). It appears unlikely that an O. mykiss 

population exists in Lower Silver Creek (D. Salsbery pers. comm.).

North Babb Creek

North Babb Creek is tributary to Lower Silver Creek and drains an area of 2.6 square miles, consisting of 1.3 miles of channel 

(SCBWMI 2001). The creek provides storm drainage to an almost entirely urbanized area and includes channelized and 

underground culverted sections.

In June 1975, DFG visually surveyed North Babb Creek between the mouth and headwaters and found no fish. The Department 

of Fish and Game concluded that channel modifications and low seasonal flow created conditions with no “direct” functions for 

fisheries (Curtis and Scoppettone 1975h).

South Babb Creek

South Babb Creek is tributary to Lower Silver Creek and drains an area of approximately four square miles, consisting of 3.6 miles 

of channel (SCBWMI 2001). It originates in foothill ravines and flows across the urbanized valley floor to its confluence with 

Lower Silver Creek (Curtis and Scoppettone 1975j). The creek is concrete-lined between Clayton Road and the mouth.

In July 1975, DFG visually surveyed South Babb Creek between the mouth and headwaters. No fish were observed and DFG 

concluded that seasonal dryness and channel modifications led to the stream having no fishery value (Curtis and Scoppettone 

1975j).

Flint Creek

Flint Creek is tributary to Lower Silver Creek. It drains an area of approximately two square miles and includes 1.5 miles of 

channel (SCBWMI 2001).

In July 1975, DFG visually surveyed Flint Creek between its mouth and headwaters, finding no fish. The Department of Fish 

and Game considered Flint Creek not to provide a sport fishery because of seasonally intermittent flow (Curtis and Scoppettone 

1975e).

Thompson Creek (Dry Creek)

Thompson Creek is tributary to Lower Silver Creek. It drains an area of approximately 18 square miles and includes 8.8 miles 

of channel (SCBWMI 2001). Tributaries include Quimby, Fowler, Yerba Buena, and Dry creeks. Historically, Thompson Creek 

emptied into a large freshwater marsh in the Evergreen area of the Santa Clara Valley. For land reclamation purposes, Thompson 

Creek was extended to Lower Silver Creek, which was also realigned and channeled (Curtis and Scoppettone 1975k).
106

In January 1961, DFG visually surveyed Dry (Thompson) Creek at two locations and did not find fish. The Department of Fish 

and Game concluded that Thompson Creek had insufficient flow to provide suitable spawning or nursery habitat for steelhead 

(Hinton 1961a).

In July 1975 DFG visually surveyed Thompson Creek between its mouth and headwaters, finding no fish. The survey report 

concluded that the creek did not directly support a fishery due largely to its tendency to dry by the fall as well as control of flow 

by SCVWD (Curtis and Scoppettone 1975k).

Quimby Creek

Quimby Creek drains an area of 2.2 square miles and consists of approximately two miles of channel (SCBWMI 2001). Although 

it has no defined confluence with a receiving stream, it is considered to be tributary to Thompson Creek (Curtis and Scoppettone 

1975i).

In July 1975, DFG visually surveyed Quimby Creek from the Quimby Road Bridge to the termination of the defined channel. 

No fish were found, and DFG concluded that Quimby Creek was a minor seasonal drainage that did not support a sport fishery 

(Curtis and Scoppettone 1975i).

Fowler Creek

Fowler Creek drains an area of 2.8 square miles and contains 2.8 miles of channel (SCBWMI 2001). Although it has no defined 

confluence with a receiving stream, it is considered to be tributary to Thompson Creek (Curtis and Scoppettone 1975f).

In July 1975, DFG visually surveyed Fowler Creek between its discontinuation and headwaters. The creek was described as 

a minor seasonal drainage issuing from the foothills into the valley, where it gradually lost definition. For this reason, DFG 

concluded Fowler Creek did not support a sport fishery (Curtis and Scoppettone 1975f).

Yerba Buena Creek

Yerba Buena Creek is tributary to Thompson Creek. It drains an area of 2.6 square miles and includes 1.5 miles of channel 

(SCBWMI 2001).

In July 1975, DFG visually surveyed Yerba Buena Creek between the mouth and headwaters, finding the channel dry for most of 

the creek’s length. The survey report stated that the stream did not directly contribute to a sport fishery (Curtis and Scoppettone 

1975n). 

Upper Silver Creek

Historically, Upper Silver Creek and Thompson Creek issued into a large freshwater marsh in the Evergreen area of Santa Clara. 

This marsh served as the headwaters of Lower Silver Creek but was drained for flood control and urban development. In the 

1970s, Upper Silver Creek flows were shunted into a flood control channel discharging directly to Coyote Creek (Curtis and 
107

Scoppettone 1975m). The creek currently drains an area of about six square miles and consists of approximately seven miles of 

channel (SCBWMI 2001).

In a 1962 report, Skinner shows Upper Silver Creek as an historical migration route and habitat for steelhead (Skinner 1962). At 

that time, the creek was said to be “lightly used” as steelhead habitat (Skinner 1962). 

In July 1975, DFG visually surveyed Upper Silver Creek between the Highway 101 bridge and the headwaters. The survey report 

noted an impassable culvert in the lower reach that was suspected of precluding use by salmonids. No O. mykiss were observed 

(Curtis and Scoppettone 1975m). An electrofishing survey during the period 1972-1977 included sampling in Upper Silver Creek 

at Upper Silver Creek Road near the Capitol Expressway. No O. mykiss were found (Scoppettone and Smith 1977).

Fisher Creek

Fisher Creek drains an area of 15.8 square miles and contains approximately eight miles of channel (SCBWMI 2001). 

Fisher Creek is the receiving stream for numerous minor, foothill drainages on the western side of the La Laguna Seca Valley. 

Historically, it passed through a marsh in the vicinity of the present day Calero Hills Golf Course before entering Coyote Creek. 

The marsh was drained and the creek channelized during construction of the golf course and development of the surrounding 

area in the 1970s (Curtis and Scoppettone 1975d).

In June 1975, DFG visually surveyed Fisher Creek from its mouth upstream to Laguna Avenue. No O. mykiss were observed. 

Because of intermittent flow and warm temperatures, DFG concluded that Fisher Creek did not provide suitable habitat for 

salmonids and did not contribute substantially to a sport fishery (Curtis and Scoppettone 1975d).

San Felipe Creek

San Felipe Creek is tributary to Anderson Reservoir. According to a watershed characteristics report, the creek consists of 

approximately 29 miles of channel and drains eight square miles (SCBWMI 2001).

In January 1961, DFG visually surveyed the lower areas of San Felipe Creek and interviewed local residents. A resident reported a 

steelhead run several years prior to 1961 when Anderson Reservoir had overflowed (Hinton 1961b). The Department of Fish and 

Game interpreted the run as land-locked O. mykiss residing in Anderson Reservoir (Hinton 1961b). In a field note from 1961, 

DFG reported that “Anderson Dam and the dams from the Coyote percolation basin prevent steelhead from using the creek as 

they formerly did” (Hinton 1961b, p. 1).

Leidy found O. mykiss at four locations electrofished on San Felipe Creek in June and July 1997 (Leidy 2002). His downstreammost station, approximately 0.9 miles downstream from the confluence with Cow Creek, yielded 28 O. mykiss between 40 and 

220 mm FL (Leidy 2002). Here he estimated density at 20 O. mykiss per 30 meters of stream. At a location 0.3 miles downstream 

from Cow Creek, Leidy caught three O. mykiss (68, 76, 87 mm) and estimated density at 5 fish per 30 meters (Leidy 2002). Two 

pools immediately downstream from San Felipe Road contained 11 O. mykiss (66-165 mm) at a density of 15 fish per 30 meters. 

Finally, at his upstream-most location, immediately upstream from where the unpaved road leaves San Felipe Creek, Leidy caught 

28 O. mykiss between 40 and 220 mm long, and estimated density at 50 fish per 30 meters of stream (Leidy 2002).
108

Cow Creek

Cow Creek is tributary to San Felipe Creek. It drains a relatively undeveloped area northeast and upstream from Anderson 

Reservoir.

In June 1997, Leidy electrofished Cow Creek one-half mile upstream from the first road crossing upstream from San Felipe Creek. 

In a 15-meter reach he caught 17 juvenile O. mykiss (42-70mm FL) and one adult (275 mm) (Leidy 2002). He observed ten 

additional juvenile O. mykiss in the same size range.

Packwood Creek

Packwood Creek is tributary to Anderson Reservoir. It drains an area of approximately ten square miles, and includes 

approximately 11 miles of channel (SCBWMI 2001). Leidy surveyed pools in a Packwood Creek in the canyon downstream from 

Dairy Flat in July 1997. He observed several juvenile O. mykiss (5-10: 35-75 mm TL) (Leidy 2002).

Hoover Creek

Hoover Creek is tributary to Packwood Creek. It drains the hills area immediately west of Henry Coe State Park.

Leidy electrofished a 30-meter reach on Hoover Creek 0.7 miles upstream from Packwood Creek in July 1997. He caught 30 O. 

mykiss (58-96 mm FL) and observed approximately 15 additional individuals in the same size range (Leidy 2002). The estimated 

O. mykiss density was 40 fish per 30-meter reach.

Cañada de los Osos Creek (La Cañada Creek)

Cañada de los Osos Creek is a headwater tributary of Coyote Creek. It drains the hills area east of the city of Gilroy and joins 

Coyote Creek approximately two miles upstream from Coyote Lake.

In June 1940, 6,000-10,000 O. mykiss fingerlings rescued from Uvas Creek were planted in Cañada de los Osos Creek (Holladay 

1940). A July 1940 DFG stream survey noted that the channel went dry at its confluence with Coyote Creek. The lower mile 

of Cañada de los Osos Creek was said to be intermittent, with the upstream area perennial. The surveyor noted that the planted 

fingerlings from Uvas Creek were healthy (Shapovalov 1940b).

Hunting Hollow Creek

Hunting Hollow Creek joins Coyote Creek immediately upstream from the confluence with Cañada de los Osos Creek. The creek 

consists of approximately 3.5 miles of channel.

The Department of Fish and Game surveyed the entire length of Hunting Hollow Creek in July 1940. The stream was dry at the 

time of the survey, and no fish were observed (Shapovalov 1940a).
109

Big Canyon Creek

Big Canyon Creek is formed by the combined drainages of Rough Gulch and Little Rough Gulch. The creek enters Coyote Creek 

from the west, and its watershed is the eastern flank of the Palassou Ridge.

Leidy surveyed about 100 meters of Big Canyon Creek upstream from the Coyote Creek confluence in October 1999. He noted 

juvenile O. mykiss (25-90 mm TL) at a density of about 15-20 fish per 30 meters (Leidy 2002).

Middle Fork Coyote Creek

Immature trout were noted in Middle Fork Coyote Creek when the site was surveyed in June-July 1974 as part of an aquatic 

habitat survey of Henry Coe State Park (Guzzetta 1974).

Electrofishing on the Middle Fork in September 1995 produced 12 O. mykiss (45-195 mm) at Upper Camp, plus another 20 

observed in the same size range (Leidy 2002). Leidy estimated O. mykiss density at this last site to be 75 per 30 meters of stream. 

In April 1997, Leidy electrofished the same site at Upper Camp. He caught five O. mykiss (45-176 mm FL) and estimated density 

at 15 per 30 meters of stream.

East Fork Coyote Creek

Leidy electrofished two sites on the East Fork of Coyote Creek downstream of Water Gulch in September 1995. At one site he 

caught a single O. mykiss (225 mm FL) (Leidy 2002).

Kelly Cabin Creek

Kelly Cabin Creek drains the hills south of Henry Coe State Park. It flows generally north and joins East Fork Coyote Creek in 

the southern portion of the park.

Leidy electrofished an isolated pool on Kelly Cabin Creek approximately 0.2 miles upstream from the confluence with East Fork 

Coyote Creek in August 1995. No O. mykiss were found (Leidy 2002). Informal surveys of Kelly Cabin Creek suggest that the 

system presently does not support O. mykiss populations (J. Smith, San Jose State University pers. comm.).

Assessment: Steelhead historically occurred throughout the Coyote Creek system. Human activities, primarily between the 

early-to-mid 1900s and the present, have substantially disrupted salmonid migration and degraded spawning and rearing habitats. 

Coyote and Anderson reservoirs, constructed in 1936 and 1950, respectively, block access to approximately 200 square miles 

of the upper Coyote Creek watershed, or approximately 56 percent of the total drainage (SCBWMI 2001). Although steelhead 

were known to use lower Coyote Creek for spawning and rearing, minimum instream flow requirements were never established 

following construction of Anderson Dam (Anderson 1978). The Coyote Canal bypasses and seasonally dewaters an 

approximately five-mile reach of Coyote Creek beginning at Coyote Diversion Dam approximately 1.2 miles downstream from 

Anderson Reservoir.
110

Extensive gravel mining downstream from Anderson Dam has altered natural streamflow and sediment transport patterns in 

Coyote Creek. Many of the larger remaining in-channel gravel mining ponds are now used for groundwater percolation, and their 

operation often creates seasonal barriers to the migration of salmonids (Smith 1998).

Urban development in the Santa Clara Valley and adjacent foothills has changed stream discharge patterns and degraded water 

quality in Coyote Creek. Urbanization also has fostered flood control projects for many of the smaller tributaries entering lower 

Coyote Creek, typically leading to a virtual lack of habitat function in post-project configurations. 

Steelhead are now relatively rare in the Coyote Creek system (Smith 1998). The most important spawning and rearing habitat 

resources remaining in the watershed are Upper Penitencia Creek and Arroyo Aguague. Portions of these creeks are protected 

by their location in Alum Rock Park, where they join to flow into Coyote Creek near San Jose (RM 10) (Smith 1998). A 

resident O. mykiss population is believed to occur in this area, and observation of O. mykiss smolts in Upper Penitencia Creek 

suggests anadromy (Smith 1997). As stocking of both hatchery and wild (from Uvas Creek) O. mykiss has occurred sporadically 

throughout the Coyote Creek system since at least 1938, the Coyote Creek population may reflect particularly complex ancestry.

Guadalupe River Watershed

The Guadalupe River is formed by the confluence of Alamitos Creek and Guadalupe Creek at the location presently inundated 

by Lake Almaden. In addition to these two streams, direct tributaries to the Guadalupe River include Los Gatos, Canoas, and 

Ross creeks. These tributaries originate on the eastern side of the Santa Cruz Mountains and enter the Guadalupe River as it flows 

through the Santa Clara Valley. The Guadalupe River consists of approximately 20 miles of main channel, and its watershed area 

is about 170 square miles. The river enters the San Francisco Estuary north of Sunnyvale (SCBWMI 2001). 

Guadalupe River

According to a stakeholder group’s report on the Guadalupe River, “Early written documents record the local presence of 

migrating salmon in the ‘Rio Guadalupe’ dating as far back as the 1700s...” (SCBWMI 2001, p. 7-131). A 1905 report notes O. 

mykiss in this stream (named “Guadalupe Creek” in this source)(Snyder 1905). In 1936, Fry surveyed part of the Guadalupe River 

in the hills approximately two miles north of the town of Almaden. He noted that in approximately May streamflow stopped until 

the start of winter rains, and that only occasional pools were present in the stream in the dry season (Fry 1936). Salmonids were 

not found in Fry’s survey of the Guadalupe River.

A July 1953 survey identified O. mykiss 1.4-1.5 miles by road upstream from the intersection of Hicks and Shannon Roads and 

“salmonids” 0.3 miles by road upstream from the same intersection (Merkel 1953). A 1959 DFG memorandum stated that no 

steelhead run had existed for many years. According to a game warden for the region, resident rainbow trout were found in the 

section of stream from Guadalupe Dam to a point three miles downstream (on Guadalupe Creek) (Schreiber 1959).

In a 1962 report, Skinner indicated the Guadalupe River as an historical migration route and habitat for steelhead (Skinner 

1962). At that time, the creek was said to be “lightly used” as steelhead habitat (Skinner 1962).
111

The Department of Fish and Game electrofished five Guadalupe River stations between Brokaw Road and Willow Glenn Way in 

September 1975. No salmonids were found and the survey report noted that poor water quality might have been a major factor 

depressing fishery resources (Curtis and Anderson 1975).

In August 1981, Leidy sampled the Guadalupe River at the USGS gauging station on Hicks Road. He caught four O. mykiss (96-

167 mm FL) (Leidy 1981-1984, 1984). A 1987 DFG correspondence stated that in the previous five years, runs of steelhead trout 

were reported on the Guadalupe River up to the drop structure near Blossom Hill Road (Hunter 1987).

In December 1987, DFG observed two adult salmonids 500 feet downstream of this location (Ulmer 1988). According to a DFG 

report, salmonids were able to migrate up to the confluence of Canoas Creek, a constructed, concrete-lined drainage channel 

(Ulmer 1988). The report stated that DFG observed 248 apparent salmonid redds in 1987 in the Guadalupe River.

The Santa Clara Valley Water District routinely constructs seasonal spreader dams in the Guadalupe River channel to increase 

percolation. As part of a five-year study (1989-1994) of the impact of spreader dams on fisheries, SCVWD monitored habitat 

and passage conditions in the Guadalupe River from 1990 to 1994. Passage observations by SCVWD during 1993 to 1994 

winter low-flow conditions found the weirs at Hillsdale, Foxworthy and St. John Streets passable only during major storm events 

(>50-200 cfs) (HRG 1995). In addition, the drop structure upstream from Blossom Hill Road was impassable under all flow 

conditions. Electrofishing, and gillnet and seine sampling upstream and downstream from the spreader dams between Branham 

Avenue and the confluence of Alamitos Creek revealed no O. mykiss during the course of this study (HRG 1995).

The district sponsored additional monitoring as part of the spreader dam studies that was summarized in 1994. Electrofishing 

was conducted in the winter of 1992-1993 at two sites in the vicinity of percolation ponds near Blossom Hill Road. A few (two 

to five) O. mykiss were found (HRG 1994). The 1994 report also noted the presence of approximately six steelhead redds in lower 

Guadalupe River in April 1993. No juvenile salmonids were captured in the vicinity of the redds during subsequent electrofishing 

(HRG 1994).

In comments on a Guadalupe River flood control project, a canoe club submitted photographs of fish caught in the river in 

October 1993. Materials accompanying the photos indicated that a 305 mm O. mykiss was collected between Interstate 880 and 

the Airport Parkway Bridge. The fish apparently was fin-clipped, and resulting genetic analysis identified it as a “Pacific steelhead” 

(Johmann 1995).

Leidy found O. mykiss at three locations in May and June 1994 (Leidy 2002). In a 30-meter reach at the end of Pam Lane off 

Coleman Road, he observed approximately 50 O. mykiss, 25 of which ranged from 50-210 mm FL (Leidy 2002). Downstream 

from the Guadalupe Reservoir, at Pheasant Valley and Hicks Roads, he caught 17 O. mykiss (38-165 mm) in a 30-meter reach. 

While upstream from the first Hicks Road crossing upstream from the reservoir, a 30-meter reach yielded 12 O. mykiss (32-

169 mm).

A few O. mykiss juveniles were found near Woz downstream of Interstate 280 during dewatering of the channel in 1998 (J. 

Abel pers. comm.). A San Jose State University classroom exercise led by Dr. Jerry Smith noted that in 2000, approximately 24 

steelhead smolts were gillnetted in Lake Almaden (J. Smith, San Jose State University pers. comm.).
112

In March 2002, a consulting fisheries biologist reported four O. mykiss (2: 250-300 mm; 1: ~300 mm; 1: ~600-700 mm) near the 

Los Gatos Creek confluence (Kozlowski 2002). The four fish had intact adipose fins but their genetic make-up was undetermined.

Los Gatos Creek

Los Gatos Creek drains an area of approximately 55 square miles and consists of approximately 24 miles of channel (SCBWMI 

2001). It has four major impoundments: Vasona Reservoir, Lexington Reservoir, Lake Elsman (built in the late 1940s) and 

Williams Reservoir (built pre-1938). Major tributaries include Briggs Creek, which enters Lexington Reservoir, and Austrian 

Gulch, which enters Lake Elsman.

Based on the locations of fish collections made in 1895 by Snyder (Snyder 1905) and historical habitat condition suitable for 

salmonids, Smith (Smith 1998) concluded that Los Gatos Creek likely supported heavy steelhead use throughout. In November 

1948, correspondence regarding responsibility for repair of an inadequate fish ladder at Page Dam (located downstream from 

Lexington Reservoir) suggested that steelhead attempted passage at the ladder (McCaulay 1948). Department of Fish and 

Game correspondence from 1950 regarding the pending construction of Lexington Reservoir indicated that large numbers of 

presumably wild trout were present in Los Gatos Creek upstream from the dam site (CDFG 1950).

A 1952 DFG document stated that substantial steelhead runs had not been seen in Los Gatos Creek since 1937, when agricultural 

pumps lowered the water table throughout the Santa Clara Valley and dewatered the lower reach (Evans 1952). The document 

also noted that resident trout populations had remained in the portions of the creek maintaining permanent flow (Evans 1952). In 

March 1953, DFG determined that no repair of the inadequate fish ladder at Page Dam would be necessary because no steelhead 

run had occurred in Los Gatos Creek since 1937 (Jones 1953). In April 1953, DFG observed “thousands” of steelhead massing at 

the base of Ryland Diversion Dam, with many attempting to jump at the overflow (Johnson 1953a). (Ryland Dam replaced Jones 

diversion dam, which was inundated by Lexington Reservoir).

In a 1962 survey of the probable distribution of steelhead in the San Francisco Bay Area, Skinner noted Los Gatos Creek as 

serving as historic habitat for this species (Skinner 1962). The survey shows the 1962 distribution of steelhead in this creek as the 

reaches immediately downstream and upstream from Lexington Reservoir.

In June 1962, DFG visually surveyed the remote reach of Los Gatos Creek upstream from Austrian Reservoir after a forest fire. 

In 400 meters of stream, eight O. mykiss (100-200 mm) were observed (Hinton 1962b). Surviving native O. mykiss were deemed 

adequate for propagation and re-population of reaches affected by the fire (Hinton 1962b). Electrofishing in Lexington Reservoir 

in June 1970 found two O. mykiss (Wood 1970).

In September 1981, seining produced three O. mykiss (57, 151, 203 mm FL) immediately upstream of Wrights Station Road 

(between Lexington Reservoir and Lake Elsman). Approximately 0.15 miles further upstream, two additional O. mykiss (56, 58 

mm) were found at the confluence with a southwest running tributary (Leidy 1981-1984, 1984).

Prior to 1996, SCVWD routinely constructed seasonal spreader dams in the Los Gatos Creek channel to increase percolation. 

As part of a five-year study (1989-1994) of the impact of spreader dams on fisheries, SCVWD sponsored a study of habitat and 

passage conditions in Los Gatos Creek from 1990 to 1994. It was concluded that spreader-dam removal at three sites immediately 

upstream and downstream from the Hamilton Road crossing resulted in wide, shallow riffles that presented passage problems 
113

during the low winter flow conditions of 1993 to 1994 (HRG 1995). Electrofish, gillnet and seine sampling upstream and 

downstream from spreader dams revealed no O. mykiss in Los Gatos Creek during the course of the study (HRG 1995).

In 1998, O. mykiss were observed spawning in Los Gatos Creek near Hamilton and Meridian Avenues (J. Abel pers. comm.). In 

summer 2001, two juvenile O. mykiss were collected in Los Gatos Creek at Leigh Avenue.

Both Williams Dam and Austrian Dam represent complete barriers to upstream migration of fish (but still allow out-migration 

over spillways) (Evans 1952). We found only one report of O. mykiss stocked upstream from Williams Reservoir: 10,000 steelhead 

fingerlings planted in July 1938 (CDFG 1938a). Department of Fish and Game studies have shown that survival of planted 

hatchery fingerling trout in competition with wild fish that are already present is extremely low (Greenwald 1962).

Briggs Creek

Briggs Creek is tributary to Los Gatos Creek via Lexington Reservoir and contains approximately one mile of channel (SCBWMI 

2001). It drains the area immediately west of the reservoir.

In September 1981, a fish survey recorded “great” fish habitat at Bear Creek Road, but found no fish. The surveyor hypothesized 

that a barrier may limit fish migration in this creek (Leidy 1981-1984, 1984).

Hooker Gulch Creek

Hooker Gulch Creek is tributary to Los Gatos Creek between Lexington Reservoir and Lake Elsman. It drains the west slope of 

Mt. Thayer.

In September 1981, dip-net sampling was conducted adjacent to Aldercroft Heights Road, immediately upstream from the 

confluence with Los Gatos Creek. Eleven O. mykiss (37-72mm FL) were collected (Leidy 1981-1984, 1984).

Austrian Gulch Creek

Austrian Gulch Creek is tributary to Los Gatos Creek via Lake Elsman and includes approximately 1.4 miles of channel 

(SCBWMI 2001). It drains the hills of the Sierra Azul east of the lake.

In September 1981, a fish survey including dip netting was conducted immediately upstream from Cathermola Road (and Lake 

Elsman). The surveyor observed approximately 200 O. mykiss and collected 75 that ranged in size from 32-60 mm FL (Leidy 

1981-1984, 1984).

Staff from SCVWD sampled Austrian Gulch Creek in March 2005. The presence of multiple year classes of O. mykiss observed 

during the survey indicates that reproduction is occurring (D. Salsbery pers. comm.).
114

Ross Creek

Ross Creek originates in the lower Santa Cruz mountain foothills near the town of Blossom Hill. It drains a primarily urbanized 

area of approximately ten square miles between Los Gatos Creek and the Guadalupe River main stem, and includes 6.2 miles of 

channel (SCBWMI 2001).

In April 2001, an adult steelhead was found stranded in Ross Creek. The fish was moved to more suitable spawning habitat in the 

Guadalupe River (J. Abel pers. comm.). Ross Creek does not appear to support an O. mykiss population currently (D. Salsbery 

pers. comm.).

Guadalupe Creek

Guadalupe Creek has one major impoundment, Guadalupe Reservoir, and drains an area of approximately 15 square miles. The 

creek consists of approximately 28 miles of channel (SCBWMI 2001). The confluence of Guadalupe Creek and Alamitos Creek at 

Lake Almaden forms the Guadalupe River. 

In July 1953, DFG sampled several locations on Guadalupe Creek with a one-man braile seine. A 125 mm O. mykiss was caught 

approximately 1.5 miles upstream from the junction of Hicks and Shannon roads, while fingerling salmonids were seen, but not 

captured, approximately 0.25 miles upstream from the same junction (Merkel 1953).

In July 1956, DFG visually surveyed Guadalupe Creek from the bridge crossing at Hicks Road and Coleman Avenue upstream 

to the Guadalupe Dam. Many steelhead juveniles (25-125 mm) were observed in pools near riffles (Thassalt 1956). The survey 

report noted apparently “good” natural propagation in the creek.

In April 1958, a DFG document commenting on a proposed spreader dam on Guadalupe Creek characterized the steelhead 

resource of the creek as of minor importance due to its apparently intermittent nature (Smedley 1958). In October 1959, DFG 

correspondence stated that resident rainbow trout were found from the Guadalupe Dam to a point three miles downstream 

(Schreiber 1959).

In November 1975, USFWS electrofished sites two miles and three miles downstream from Guadalupe Dam. Both sites produce 

50-330 mm O. mykiss as well as numerous YOY (Michny and Ging 1975).

Prior to 1996, SCVWD routinely constructed seasonal spreader dams in the Guadalupe Creek channel to increase percolation. 

As part of a five-year study (1989-1994) of the impact of spreader dams on fisheries, SCVWD monitored habitat and passage 

conditions in Guadalupe Creek in 1993 and 1994. In addition to barriers located downstream in the Guadalupe River, SCVWD 

identified a potential barrier to migration at the Masson Dam Diversion. Electrofishing, and gillnet and seine sampling upstream 

and downstream from spreader dams in 1993 revealed a few O. mykiss (two to five individuals) upstream of Capitancillos Drive 

and upstream of the diversion (HRG 1995). Also, one O. mykiss was found in an off-channel pond and one in the spreader dam 

pond upstream of Meridian. Sampling in 1994 found no O. mykiss (HRG 1995).
115

Leidy surveyed about 1,200 meters of Guadalupe Creek between the Hicks Road crossing (upstream from the Guadalupe 

Reservoir) and an impassable natural falls in October 1999. He observed adult O. mykiss to 254 mm TL in pools, and juveniles in 

a reach upstream from Hicks Road (10-15 per 30 m) and in a reach downstream of the falls (25-30 per 30 m) (Leidy 2002).

In 1999, O. mykiss were observed throughout Guadalupe Creek downstream from Guadalupe Reservoir (J. Abel pers. comm.). 

Ladder construction was completed in 2000. In summer 2001, approximately 30 O. mykiss were rescued from a degraded reach of 

Guadalupe Creek that was dewatered for rehabilitation (J. Abel pers. comm.).

Pheasant Creek

Pheasant Creek drains an area of 1.4 square miles and consists of approximately one mile of channel (SCBWMI 2001). The creek 

is tributary to Guadalupe Creek downstream from the Guadalupe Reservoir.

In July 1956, DFG visually surveyed a 0.25-mile reach of Pheasant Creek one mile upstream from its confluence with Guadalupe 

Creek. Large numbers of young steelhead were observed in pools that a landowner said persisted throughout the dry season when 

the stream became intermittent (Thassalt 1956). A 1958 DFG comment regarding a proposed watershed project indicated that 

steelhead use Pheasant Creek as a spawning stream (Smedley 1958). Pheasant Creek presently supports a reproducing resident O. 

mykiss population (J. Smith pers. comm.). 

Hicks Creek

Hicks Creek consists of approximately two miles of channel and is tributary to Guadalupe Creek downstream from the Guadalupe 

Reservoir (SCBWMI 2001). In July 1956, DFG visually surveyed a 200-meter reach of Hicks Creek upstream from the mouth. 

The Department of Fish and Game observed O. mykiss between 50 and 75 mm in almost every pool and riffle in the surveyed 

reach (Thassalt 1956). A 1958 DFG comment regarding a proposed watershed project indicated that steelhead used Hicks Creek 

as a spawning stream (Smedley 1958).

Rincon Creek

Rincon is tributary to Guadalupe Creek upstream from the Guadalupe Reservoir. The creek drains a portion of the eastern slopes 

of the Sierra Azul.

In April 1962, DFG did not find O. mykiss in a survey at Hicks Road Bridge (Hinton 1962a). As part of a fish distribution study, 

Rincon Creek was sampled in August 1981. Six O. mykiss (60-172 mm FL) were found in a series of isolated pools just upstream 

from the confluence with Guadalupe River (Leidy 1981-1984, 1984).

Leidy surveyed a 100-meter reach of Rincon Creek upstream from the Hicks Road crossing (upstream from the Guadalupe 

Reservoir) in October 1999. He observed adult O. mykiss to 305 mm TL in pools, and juveniles at a density of about 15-20 per 

30 meters (Leidy 2002).
116

Alamitos Creek

Alamitos Creek has one major impoundment, Almaden Reservoir (different from Lake Almaden), drains an area of approximately 

38 square miles, and contains approximately nine miles of channel (SCBWMI 2001). The confluence of Guadalupe Creek and 

Alamitos Creek at Lake Almaden forms the Guadalupe River.

According to a 1978 DFG letter, Alamitos Creek once supported runs of steelhead. Dam construction, streamflow regulation, 

channelization, and urban development during the previous 50 years was said to have eliminated self-sustaining O. mykiss

populations (Yoshioka 1987b).

In July and August 1997, SCVWD electrofished sites on Alamitos Creek from the confluence with Golf Creek to the McKean 

Road crossing. Five O. mykiss were found in the 200-meter reach upstream of the confluence, and 21 O. mykiss were found in the 

120-meter reach downstream of the crossing (Abel 1997).

Arroyo Calero

Arroyo Calero is tributary to Alamitos Creek, and has one major impoundment, Calero Reservoir. The creek drains an area of 

approximately 12.4 square miles and includes approximately six miles of channel (SCBWMI 2001). 

No historical records were found for this Pheasant Creek. However, the creek presently supports a reproducing resident O. mykiss

population (J. Smith pers. comm.). Recent modifications to downstream channel areas have opened the system to anadromous 

fish migration.

Barret Creek

Barret Creek drains Barrett Canyon, which located upstream from, and south of, Almaden Reservoir. Leidy reported speaking 

with local fishermen who stated that O. mykiss are regularly caught in Barrett Creek (Leidy 2002).

Herbert Creek

Herbert Creek drains into Almaden Reservoir from the southwest. Leidy reported speaking with local fishermen who stated that 

O. mykiss are regularly caught in Herbert Creek (Leidy 2002).

Assessment: The Guadalupe River system formerly hosted a steelhead run, although the aridity of the watershed probably limited 

its size. Substantial alteration of the lower watershed stream channels for flood control as well as construction of dams and other 

passage barriers has restricted anadromous salmonid habitat in the drainage to a fraction its original extent. “The steelhead 

population had declined significantly by 1962 following construction of reservoirs on all main tributaries (Los Gatos, Guadalupe, 

Alamitos creeks and Arroyo Calero creeks) and the construction of a drop structure upstream of Blossom Hill Road” (SCBWMI 

2001, p. 7-131).

The Guadalupe system currently supports a reproducing steelhead population (SCBWMI 2001, p. 7-131). Non-migratory O. 

mykiss also persist in upper portions of the watershed. “From the time dams were installed in the river up until 1999, steelhead 
117

were confined to the main stem of the Guadalupe River and lower Los Gatos Creek, where limited spawning and rearing habitat 

occur” (SCBWMI 2001, p. 7-131). The Santa Clara Valley Water District modified the Alamitos drop structure on the Guadalupe 

River to provide access to upstream habitat areas. Additional “smaller barriers and passage obstructions that occur on Guadalupe 

and Alamitos creeks” must be modified to open additional habitat areas (SCBWMI 2001, p. 7-132). Further surveys are needed 

to determine the extent to which steelhead use habitat made available by construction of the fish ladder at Lake Almaden, and 

to determine O. mykiss status in tributaries with little or no previous documentation, including Arroyo Calero, and tributaries 

upstream from Guadalupe and Almaden Reservoirs. Genetic analysis of O. mykiss occurring upstream from Austrian Dam in the 

headwaters of Los Gatos Creek could be useful in determining whether this population is closely related to wild, coastal stocks.

San Tomas Aquino Creek/Saratoga Creek Watershed

San Tomas Aquino Creek originates in the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains and drains a primarily urbanized area of the 

Santa Clara Valley. The headwaters area drained by the tributary Saratoga Creek is less urbanized. Other direct tributaries are 

Smith Creek and Wildcat Creek. The overall watershed area is about 39 square miles. A barrier at the confluence of San Tomas 

Aquino Creek and Saratoga Creek prevents passage into the upstream reaches of both creeks (SCBWMI 2001).

San Tomas Aquino Creek 

San Tomas Aquino Creek consists of approximately 16.5 miles of channel and enters the San Francisco Estuary near via 

Guadalupe Slough (SCBWMI 2001). It flows generally north from its headwaters area upstream of the town of Saratoga.

In August 1981, three locations on upper San Tomas Aquino Creek between Virginia Avenue and the junction of Old Adobe 

and Quito roads were surveyed as part of a fish distribution study. One location was also sampled on San Tomas Aquino Creek 

downstream from the confluence of Saratoga Creek. No O. mykiss were found (Leidy 1981-1984, 1984).

A 1985 DFG survey of Saratoga Creek noted “a major steelhead and king salmon spawning area” on San Tomas Aquino Creek 

located approximately 200 yards downstream of the Saratoga and San Tomas Aquino creeks confluence (Bordenave and Ford 

1985). Based on informal survey of the creek, it is believed not to support use by O. mykiss currently (J. Abel pers. comm.).

Saratoga Creek (Campbell Creek)

Saratoga Creek consists of approximately 15 miles of main channel and drains an area of approximately 16.5 square miles, 

including tributaries Bonjetti Creek and Booker Creek that originate in the Santa Cruz Mountains (SCBWMI 2001). A 1905 

report notes O. mykiss in this stream (named “Cambell Creek” in this source) (Snyder 1905).

Stocking records indicate that steelhead from the Brookdale Hatchery were stocked in Saratoga Creek in 1938 and in 1939 

(CDFG 1939). A 1953 DFG field note conveyed Santa Clara County workers’ reports that steelhead had not ascended Saratoga 

Creek for the previous 15 years (Johnson 1953b). Saratoga Dam is described as a complete barrier to upstream migration with 

a non-functioning fish ladder. The Department of Fish and Game reported observing trout upstream and downstream from the 

dam, and concluded that the fish were resident (Johnson 1953b). Another DFG field note from July 1953 records O. mykiss
118

fingerlings in Saratoga Creek, citing the likely source as migration downstream from the water company’s property (Shapovalov 

1953). The note stated that sizable runs had not occurred for the previous eight to ten years.

Oncorhynchus mykiss were found at three of six locations sampled in August 1981 as part of a fish distribution study (Leidy 

1981-1984, 1984). Six O. mykiss (46-62 mm FL) were collected by dip net in a 15 meter reach 0.25 miles upstream from 

the confluence of Booker Creek; 15 O. mykiss (61-170 mm) were found in a 20 meter reach at 4th St. in the town of Saratoga 

(Wildwood Park); and at Crestbrook Drive (off Saratoga Avenue), four O. mykiss (56, 64, 151, 226 mm) were collected by pole 

seine from a 20 meter reach. No O. mykiss were found downstream from the town of Saratoga (Leidy 1981-1984, 1984).

In early October 1985, DFG interviewed the owner of land adjacent to the upper perennial headwaters of Saratoga Creek who 

reportedly caught O. mykiss up to 230 mm in length upstream and downstream from the Booker Creek confluence (Gray 1985). 

In October and November 1985, DFG followed up the interview with a survey of Saratoga Creek between the headwaters and the 

confluence with San Tomas Aquino Creek. The resulting report stated that Saratoga Creek did not have a steelhead run, citing a 

large barrier at the first entry point of Saratoga Creek into San Tomas Aquino Creek (Bordenave and Ford 1985). Some O. mykiss

(to 150 mm) were observed (Bordenave and Ford 1985).

Prior to 1996, SCVWD routinely constructed seasonal spreader dams in the Saratoga Creek channel to increase percolation. As 

part of a five-year study (1989-1994) of the impact of spreader dams on fisheries, SCVWD sponsored a study of habitat and 

passage conditions in Saratoga Creek in 1993 and 1994. The Santa Clara Valley Water District identified a drop structure located 

at the confluence with San Tomas Aquino Creek as a complete barrier to upstream migration, which precluded use of Saratoga 

Creek by anadromous salmonids (HRG 1995). Electrofishing, gillnet and seine sampling upstream and downstream from spreader 

dams found O. mykiss “abundant” (30+ individuals sampled) in 1993 and “common” (15-29 individuals) in 1994 at Herriman 

Avenue upstream of the spreader dams. Monitoring of dam removal in August 1993 found O. mykiss (85-225 mm SL) both 

upstream and downstream of the dam, which had been stranded when the percolation pond was drained (HRG 1995). Also, one 

O. mykiss was found in the spreader dam ponds upstream of Cox Avenue and one in the area upstream of Prospect Road in 1994.

In 1996, Saratoga Creek at McLellan Ranch Park was said to contain abundant O. mykiss (J. Abel pers. comm.). In summer 2000, 

a few O. mykiss were rescued near Homestead Road by SCVWD when the channel was dewatered. Also, unexplained fish kills 

during recent years in Saratoga Creek from the Lawrence Expressway to Prospect Road revealed O. mykiss (J. Abel pers. comm.).

In April 1996, Leidy electrofished two sites on Saratoga Creek. Immediately downstream of the Fourth Street Bridge in Saratoga 

he caught 12 O. mykiss from 89-160 mm FL, with an estimated density of 20 per 30 meters (Leidy 2002). From Via Monte Drive 

downstream, Leidy caught 18 O. mykiss (110-200 mm), with an estimated density of 30 per 30 meters of stream (Leidy 2002). 

Recent smolt trapping in Saratoga Creek (reported in 1997) did not collect O. mykiss (Smith 1997).

Fish salvage activities were conducted in Saratoga Creek on at least two occasions in 1999, during March and August (J. Abel 

pers. comm.). Salvaged O. mykiss were transferred to DFG staff.

Bonjetti Creek

Bonjetti Creek consists of approximately 0.14 miles of main channel. As part of a fish distribution study, two Bonjetti Creek 

locations were sampled by dip net in August 1981. At a site approximately 0.2 miles upstream from the confluence with Saratoga 
119

Creek, four O. mykiss (37-56 mm FL) were found (Leidy 1981-1984, 1984). A single O. mykiss (178 mm) was collected on the 

southeast branch of Bonjetti Creek under the most upstream Sanborn Road crossing (Leidy 1981-1984, 1984).

In April 1996, Leidy electrofished a 30 meter reach in Sanborn Regional Park, approximately a 0.5 miles upstream from Saratoga 

Road. Two O. mykiss (126, 250 mm FL) were found (Leidy 2002).

McElroy Creek

McElroy Creek is the western-most tributary of Bonjetti Creek. As part of a fish distribution study, a single McElroy Creek site 

was sampled by dip net in August 1981 approximately 0.2 miles upstream from the confluence of Bonjetti and Saratoga Creeks. 

Three O. mykiss (32, 49, 59 mm FL) were found in a 15-meter reach (Leidy 1981-1984, 1984).

Vasona Creek

Vasona Creek is a primary tributary of San Tomas Aquino Creek. It drains an area of approximately 1.4 square miles, and includes 

approximately 0.5 miles of channel (SCBWMI 2001). Vasona Creek mainstem and the western fork (Sobey Creek) were each 

sampled at one location in August 1981 as part of a fish distribution study. Oncorhynchus mykiss was not found (Leidy 1981-1984, 

1984). Based on informal survey of the creek, it is believed not to support use by O. mykiss currently (J. Abel pers. comm.).

Wildcat Creek

Wildcat Creek is tributary to Vasona Creek. Its drainage area is approximately four square miles, and the creek consists of about 

four miles of channel (SCBWMI 2001). No records regarding fisheries of Wildcat Creek were found. Wildcat Creek does not 

appear to support an O. mykiss population currently (D. Salsbery pers. comm.).

Smith Creek

Smith Creek is the headwater tributary of San Tomas Aquino Creek and drains an area of 2.6 square miles. It consists of 3.4 miles 

of channel (SCBWMI 2001). 

A site on Smith Creek within a new housing development was sampled as part of a fish distribution study in August 1981. No fish 

of any kind were found (Leidy 1981-1984, 1984). According to SCVWD staff, O. mykiss are not found in the creek currently (J. 

Abel pers. comm.).

Assessment: Saratoga Creek historically hosted a steelhead run, and resident O. mykiss exist in the watershed that may have recent 

anadromous ancestry (K. Anderson, pers. comm. cited in SCBWMI 2001, p. 7-124). However, an impassable barrier at the 

confluence of San Tomas Aquino Creek and Saratoga Creek currently prevents anadromous fish passage to upstream portions of 

both creeks (SCBWMI 2001).
120

Calabazas Creek Watershed

Calabazas Creek drains a 21 square mile area of the Santa Clara Valley that is mostly urbanized in its lower portions. The 

headwaters are in rural and/or relatively undeveloped areas on the eastern slopes of the Santa Cruz Mountains. The creek consists 

of approximately 13 miles of channel that enters the San Francisco Estuary via Guadalupe Slough (SCBWMI 2001). According to 

a 1987 DFG memo, four substantial fish barriers are found downstream of Comer Drive on Calabazas Creek (Ulmer 1987). Drop 

structures at Bollinger Road and Rainbow Drive are believed to be absolute barriers to upstream fish movement, as is a 12 foot 

inclined dam downstream of Comer Drive (HSA and Smith 1987).

Calabazas Creek

According to an account by Ian Gilroy, O. mykiss were present in Calabazas Creek in the early 1970s (J. Abel pers. comm.). As 

part of a fish distribution study, four Calabazas Creek sites were sampled between the Bayshore Freeway and Cox Avenue in 

August 1981. No O. mykiss were found (Leidy 1981-1984, 1984). A survey of the creek performed on behalf of SCVWD in May 

and August 1987 found no native fish (HSA and Smith 1987).

Prospect Creek

Prospect Creek is the uppermost tributary of Calabazas Creek and drains an area of approximately 1.4 square miles. It contains 

approximately with 1.4 miles of channel (SCBWMI 2001).

Prospect Creek was sampled by dip net upstream from Prospect Road in August 1981 as part of a fish distribution study. No fish 

of any kind were encountered (Leidy 1981-1984, 1984).

Assessment: The lower portion of Calabazas Creek was extensively altered for flood control purposes between the 1960s and 

the early 1980s, leaving most of the channel in the form of box culvert or earthen constructed channel. According to a study 

of fisheries values of Calabazas Creek, the stream is unsuitable for steelhead because of a lack of pools, good hiding cover, and 

suitable streamflows (HSA and Smith 1987).

Stevens Creek Watershed

Stevens Creek drains an area of about 29 square miles and originates in the Santa Cruz Mountains. The creek drops into the 

western edge of the Santa Clara Valley where it drains into the South San Francisco Bay. There is one major impoundment, 

Stevens Creek Reservoir. Several tributaries including Gold, Deer and Indian creeks were surveyed by DFG in 1946 and were 

found to be too steep to support trout (Shapovalov 1946c). During periods of high runoff, water from Permanente Creek is 

diverted into Stevens Creek.

Stevens Creek

Stevens Creek consists of approximately 20 miles of channel, and enters the San Francisco Estuary near Long Point, north of 

Moffett Field Naval Air Station (SCBWMI 2001). A 1905 report notes O. mykiss in Stevens Creek (Snyder 1905).
121

In 1947, no hatchery origin O. mykiss were identified in angler catch reports from Stevens Creek Reservoir, although 3,520 were 

planted the previous summer. The Department of Fish and Game concluded that hatchery O. mykiss showed negligible survival in 

this system (CDFG 1947).

According to a DFG summary report, 6,865 fingerling steelhead were rescued from Stevens Creek in 1954 (Pintler 1956). 

Rescued fish apparently were moved to other areas within the Stevens Creek watershed that had wetted stream channel 

throughout the dry season.

Sampling as part of a fish distribution study found O. mykiss at four of eight Stevens Creek locations in August 1981. Four O. 

mykiss (65-110 mm FL) were caught in a ten-meter reach downstream from Stevens Creek Road and two O. mykiss (60, 192 

mm) were caught in a 30.3-meter reach in Stevens Creek County Park downstream from Stevens Creek Reservoir (Leidy 1981-

1984, 1984). Upstream from Stevens Creek Reservoir, two O. mykiss (48, 58 mm) were caught in a seven-meter reach at the first 

bridge upstream from Mount Eden Road and 15 O. mykiss (58-72 mm) were found in a ten-meter reach approximately 5.9 miles 

upstream from the reservoir (Leidy 1981-1984, 1984).

The Department of Fish and Game surveyed Stevens Creek for migrating salmonids in December 1985. One steelhead (650 mm) 

was seen at the base of the fishway 100 yards upstream of the Highway 101 bridge (Bordenave 1986). Scale analysis indicated that 

the fish was age 6+ and had previously spawned and returned to the ocean.

Prior to 1996, SCVWD routinely constructed seasonal spreader dams in the Stevens Creek channel to increase percolation. As 

part of a five-year study (1989-1994) of the impact of spreader dams on fisheries, SCVWD sponsored a study of habitat and 

passage conditions in Stevens Creek from 1990 to 1994. In 1994, SCVWD found fish ladders at the Central Expressway and 

Highway 101 often had insufficient flow and/or were clogged with debris and sediment (HRG 1995). In addition, the drop 

structure at L’Avenida Avenue was impassable in all five years of the study. Electrofish, gillnet and seine sampling upstream and 

downstream from spreader dams and downstream from the Stevens Creek Reservoir is reported in Table V-3.

Table V-3. Number of O. mykiss sampled on Stevens Creek, 1990-1994

Location 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994

Stevens Ck. Country Park * 6-14 2-5 6-14 1

Downstream Stevens Ck. Blvd. * * 2-5 30+ *

Spreader-dam pond downstream I-280 * * 2-5 * *

Homestead Rd. * * 0 0 6-14

Dam pond upstream Fremont Ave. * 0 0 2-5 6-14

Downstream Fremont Ave. Dam 0 * 0 0 *

L’Avenida Ave. 0 * 0 0 0

(Source: HRG 1995)

*Not sampled.
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Additional monitoring conducted as part of the SCVWD spreader dam studies was summarized in 1994. Of five locations 

electrofished in 1992-1993 surveys, O. mykiss were found to be “abundant” (30 or more individuals) near Stevens Creek 

Boulevard and “common” (15-30 individuals) at Stevens Creek County Park (HRG 1994). Fish ladders at Central Expressway 

and Moffett Boulevard were checked as part of the monitoring program and were found to be non-functional due to maintenance 

and flow issues.

Leidy electrofished Stevens Creek between McClellan Ranch Park and Monte Bello Preserve in September 1994, finding O. 

mykiss at all four locations sampled (Leidy 2002). He caught 23 O. mykiss (55-240 mm FL) in a 30-meter reach within McClellan 

Ranch Park, and seven O. mykiss (140-235 mm) in the Chestnut Picnic Area just downstream from the reservoir (Leidy 2002). 

Just upstream from the reservoir, he caught 12 O. mykiss (50-140 mm) in the Cooley Picnic Area. Further upstream, at the end of 

Stevens Creek Canyon Road, Leidy caught 16 O. mykiss (46-170 mm) (Leidy 2002). In April 1996, Leidy electrofished Stevens 

Creek downstream of East Middlefield Road and found no O. mykiss (Leidy 2002).

In 1996, sampling for a genetic study found O. mykiss in the lower reach of Stevens Creek (J. Abel pers. comm.). The study found 

these O. mykiss to be primarily of hatchery origin, although some native, Central Coast ESU steelhead were present. In 1997, 

steelhead smolts and YOY were rescued by SCVWD staff from reaches of the stream where it was drying due to seasonal releases 

rates and stream flow conditions (J. Abel pers. comm.). In 1998 and 1999, SCVWD electrofishing surveys found O. mykiss

throughout the entire reach from the Central Expressway to Fremont Road. Staff noted the presence of O. mykiss to be atypical 

since the lower reach was usually dry during the season (when sampling occurred). Also in 1998 and 1999, out-migrant traps 

caught steelhead smolts in Stevens Creek (J. Abel pers. comm.).

As of 2001, SCVWD had identified multiple potential passage barriers on Stevens Creek of which zero completely precluded 

passage. Five were rated passable only under a small range of flow conditions and included: the gaging station between Central 

Avenue and Hwy 85 with its three associated drop structures; the Moffett fish ladder downstream of the gaging station; fish 

ladders at Evelyn and Fremont Avenues; and a low-flow vehicle crossing at Blackberry Farm (Entrix Inc. 2001).

Swiss Creek

Swiss Creek is tributary to Stevens Creek Reservoir. It consists of approximately 1.7 miles of channel (SCBWMI 2001).

 In August 1981, two Swiss Creek locations were sampled as part of a fish distribution study. No O. mykiss were found (Leidy 

1981-1984, 1984). According to SCWVD staff, the creek rarely maintains sufficient water throughout the dry season to support 

an O. mykiss population (J. Abel pers. comm.).

Assessment: Stevens Creek historically supported a steelhead run, though the population has been reduced by alterations to 

the watershed, particularly construction of Stevens Creek Reservoir. Stevens Creek currently supports resident O. mykiss that 

appears to produce smolts (SCBWMI 2001; Smith 1997). A 1994 DFG memo stated that Stevens Creek had good potential for 

sustaining steelhead (Roper 1994).
123

Permanente Creek Watershed

Permanente Creek drains an area on the northeast-facing slopes of the Santa Cruz Mountains and drops into the western edge of 

the Santa Clara Valley. It flows through the Cities of Los Altos and Mountain View and enters the South San Francisco Bay via 

the Mountain View Slough (SCBWMI 2001). The creek consists of approximately 13 miles of channel draining a watershed area 

of 17 square miles. High flows are diverted into Stevens Creek via the Permanente Creek Diversion, constructed in 1959.

Permanente Creek

A 1905 report notes O. mykiss in Permanente Creek (named “San Antonio Creek” in this source) (Snyder 1905). In 1940, a DFG 

stream survey noted a resident’s account of Permanente Creek as formerly a “fine” trout stream from which anglers caught large 

fish (Shapovalov 1940c).

As part of a fish distribution study, six Permanente Creek sites between Charleston Road and Interstate 280 were sampled in 

August 1981. No O. mykiss were found (Leidy 1981-1984, 1984).

In April 1996, Leidy electrofished Permanente Creek at two sites, a 50-meter reach upstream from Charleston Road (downstream 

from Highway 101), and a 100-meter reach upstream from Interstate 280. No O. mykiss were found (Leidy 2002).

Hale Creek

Hale Creek drains an area of approximately five square miles, and contains approximately with 3.2 miles of channel (SCBWMI 

2001). A fish distribution study found no O. mykiss at two locations sampled in August 1981 (Leidy 1981-1984, 1984).

Assessment: Permanente Creek appears to have supported O. mykiss historically. A cement company operating in the upper part 

of the watershed has discharged sediment-laden water into Permanente Creek and has undertaken corrective actions as directed by 

the RWQCB (SCBWMI 2001).

Adobe Creek Watershed

Adobe Creek consists of approximately 14 miles of channel originating southwest of Foothill College, and enters the San 

Francisco Estuary via the Palo Alto Flood Basin. The watershed area consists of about 11 square miles. Operations of the tidal 

gates at the mouth of Adobe Creek can preclude the passage of anadromous fish (D. Salsbery pers. comm.). A culverted section 

of the creek is found in the city of Los Altos approximately three miles from the mouth. Box culverts at the road crossings of El 

Camino Real and Highway 280 are probably impassable to in-migrating salmonids (HRG 1989).

Adobe Creek (San Antonio Creek)

The Sportsman Gazetteer for 1877 reported rainbow trout in Adobe Creek (Hallock 1877). Snyder documented the occurrence 

of Salmo irideus (O. mykiss) from collections likely made in 1898 from Adobe Creek (Snyder 1905). Adobe Creek was sampled 
124

as part of a fish distribution study at Highway 101 and at Wilkie Way in August 1981. No O. mykiss were found (Leidy 1981- 

1984, 1984).

Staff from DFG sampled Adobe Creek in February 1988 and did not encounter salmonids (HRG 1989). Consultants to SCVWD 

surveyed Adobe Creek between El Camino Real and Hidden Villa in October, November and December of 1988. Again, no 

salmonids were seen. The Department of Fish and Game surveyed Adobe Creek in May 2002 and found the channel to be dry in 

the vicinity of the city of Los Altos (Cleugh 2002).

Assessment: Based on the species’ documented historical presence in proximate watersheds and anecdotal accounts, it is likely 

that steelhead used the Adobe Creek watershed in the past (HRG 1989). Salmonids have not been seen in the several surveys 

conducted since 1981, and probably are extirpated from the creek system. Channelization and other flood control projects in the 

watershed have drastically reduced fish habitat, and present impassable barriers to upstream migration (SCBWMI 2001). Some 

“excellent” fish habitat was noted in a 1988 assessment, however, in the reaches upstream of Hidden Villa (HRG 1989).

Matadero Creek/Barron Creek Watershed

Matadero Creek consists of approximately eight miles of channel and enters the San Francisco Estuary via the Palo Alto flood 

basin. Its drainage area is approximately 14 square miles, and is supplemented by flows from the approximately three-square mile 

watershed of Barron Creek. Operations of the tidal gates at the mouth of Matadero Creek can preclude the passage of anadromous 

fish (D. Salsbery pers. comm.).

Matadero Creek

A 1905 report notes O. mykiss in “Madera Creek,” referring to Matadero Creek (Snyder 1905). A DFG field note from 1945 

documents a fisherman’s sighting of steelhead adults in Matadero Creek two years prior (1942/43 season) (Shapovalov 1945).

As part of a fish distribution study, seven Matadero Creek sites were surveyed in August 1981. No O. mykiss were found, although 

good habitat was observed immediately downstream of the Foothill Expressway and near El Camino Real (Leidy 1981-1984, 

1984).

According to DFG, steelhead were caught by local fishermen during 1985, 1986 and 1987 in the slough that comprises the lower 

portion of Matadero Creek. At least six steelhead were noted passing the tidal gates in April 1987 (Yoshioka 1987a). Department 

of Fish and Game correspondence identifies Matadero Creek as an anadromous steelhead trout stream with winter spawning runs 

(Ulmer 1986).

In February 1997, Leidy electrofished Matadero Creek at three sites between Laguna Street and the third downstream bridge 

crossing on Old Matadero Creek Road. No O. mykiss were found (Leidy 2002). Based on informal survey of the creek, it is 

believed not to support use by O. mykiss currently (J. Abel pers. comm.).
125

Barron Creek

Barron Creek consists of approximately five miles of channel, with high flows diverted into Matadero Creek via a constructed 

channel (SCBWMI 2001). A fish distribution study found no fish of any kind when surveying a 100-meter reach on Barron 

Creek at Louie Road in August 1981 (Leidy 1981-1984, 1984).

Deer Creek

This creek is tributary to Purisma Creek, which in turn is tributary to Matadero Creek. Deer Creek drains an area of 1.6 square 

miles and comprises approximately 2.5 miles of channel.

In 1946, DFG visually surveyed Deer Creek and determined it was too steep and its flows too low in summer to support trout 

(Shapovalov 1946b) A fish distribution study found no O. mykiss at two locations surveyed on Deer Creek in August 1981 (Leidy 

1981-1984, 1984).

Assessment: The Matadero Creek watershed probably supported a small steelhead run and anadromous O. mykiss continue to 

enter the system, according to local residents (SCBWMI 2001). Channelization, flood control projects, and barriers such as 

culverts have drastically reduced fish habitat (SCBWMI 2001).
126

Watershed Stream/ Tributary

Yrs. Surveyed/ Quant. Data

Max. Period of Record

Data

Type

Life Hist. Stage/No. Yrs. Data

Anad.Life-CyclePossible

O. mykiss Evidence 

of Pop. Decline

Current Pop.Status

References(Pers. Comm.) Hist. Current

Coyote Creek Coyote 25/11 1898- 2000 0, 1, 2, 3 J/5; S/4; R/7; M/2 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3

2, 4, 8, 12, 32-36, 40, 44, 50, 53, 55, 56, 62, 67, 69, 70, 72, 74, 81, 83, 88, 92, 93, 96-98 (1)

Lower Penitencia

1/0 0 1975 1 - N DF NP Y 0 17

Berryessa 2/0 0 1981 1, 3 - N UNK NP - 0 20, 65, 66Calera 3/0 0 1981 1, 3 - N UNK NP - 0 65, 66, 70, 79Arroyo de los Coches

2/0 0 1981 1, 3 - N UNK NP - 0 19, 65, 66

Upper Penitencia

13/6 1946- 2000 0, 1, 2, 3 J/4; S/1; R/5 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3

9, 17, 29, 39, 42, 53, 55, 56, 70, 81, 88, 93, 95, 102(1)

Arroyo Aguague

2/2 1974- 1999 1, 2 J/1; R/1 Y DF DF - 1, 2, 3 10, 80, 81

Lower Silver 2/1 1999 1 R/1 N DF NP Y 1 24, 33, 93 (3)North Babb 1/0 0 1975 1 - N UNK NP - 0 25South Babb 1/0 0 1975 1 - N UNK NP - 0 27

Table V-4. Distribution status of O. Mykiss in San Francisco Estuary streams of Santa Clara County, Californiaa
127

Watershed Stream/ Tributary

Yrs. Surveyed/ Quant. Data

Max. Period of Record

Data

Type

Life Hist. Stage/No. Yrs. Data

Anad.Life-CyclePossible

O. mykiss Evidence 

of Pop. Decline

Current Pop.Status

References(Pers. Comm.) Hist. Current

Flint 1/0 0 1975 1 - N UNK NP - 0 22Thompson 2/0 0 1975 1 - N UNK NP - 0 28, 46Quimby 1/0 0 1975 1 - N UNK NP - 0 26Fowler 1/0 0 1975 1 - N UNK NP - 0 23Yerba Buena 1/0 0 1975 1 - N UNK NP - 0 31Upper Silver 2/0 0 1975 1, 2 - N DF NP Y 0 30, 81, 93Fisher 1/0 0 1975 1 - N UNK NP - 0 21San Felipe 2/1 1961- 1997 0, 1, 2 J/1; R/2 N DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 47, 67Cow 1/1 1997 2 J/1; R/1 N DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 67Packwood 1/0 1997 1 J/1; R/1 N DF DF - 1, 2, 3 67Hoover 1/1 1997 2 J/1 N DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 67Cañada de los Osos

1/0 1940 1 J/1 N DF UNK Y 0 51, 85

Hunting Hollow

1/0 0 1940 1 - N UNK UNK - 0 84
128

Watershed Stream/ Tributary

Yrs. Surveyed/ Quant. Data

Max. Period of Record

Data

Type

Life Hist. Stage/No. Yrs. Data

Anad.Life-CyclePossible

O. mykiss Evidence 

of Pop. Decline

Current Pop.Status

References(Pers. Comm.) Hist. Current

Big Canyon 1/0 1999 1 J/1 N DF DF - 1 67Middle Fork Coyote

3/2 1975- 1997 1, 2 J/3; R/2 N DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 44, 67

East Fork Coyote

1/1 1995 2 R/1 N DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 67

Kelly Cabin 1/0 0 1995 2 - N PB NP Y 0 67(4)

Guadalupe River

Guadalupe River

13/3 1898- 2002 0, 1, 2, 3 J/3; S/1; R/2 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3

18, 40, 54, 55, 58, 59, 64-67, 78, 93,102(2, 4)

Los Gatos 13/2 1937- 2001 0, 1, 2, 3 J/3; R/2; M/4 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3

11, 15, 38, 43, 49, 55, 60, 63, 65, 66, 93, 96, 98, 103(1)

Briggs 1/0 0 1981 1 - N UNK UNK - 0 65, 66Hooker Gulch

1/1 1981 3 J/1 N DF PB Y 0 65, 66

Austrian Gulch

1/1 1981- 2005 3 J/1 N DF DF Y 1,2,3 65, 66 (3)

Ross 1/0 2001 3 M/1 N DF NP Y 1 (1, 3)Guadalupe 7/2 1953- 2001 1, 2, 3 J/3; R/1 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 55, 67, 70, 71, 94, 99 (1)
129

Watershed Stream/ Tributary

Yrs. Surveyed/ Quant. Data

Max. Period of Record

Data

Type

Life Hist. Stage/No. Yrs. Data

Anad.Life-CyclePossible

O. mykiss Evidence 

of Pop. Decline

Current Pop.Status

References(Pers. Comm.) Hist. Current

Pheasant 1/0 1956 1 J/1 Y DF DF Y 1,2,3

94, 99 (4)

Hicks 1/0 1956 1 J/1 UNK DF UNK Y 0 94, 99Rincon 3/1 1981- 1999 1, 3 J/2; R/2 N DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 48, 65-67Alamitos 1/1 1997 2 - Y DF DF - 1 1, 105Arroyo Calero

0 0 1 - Y DF DF - 1,2,3 (4)

Barrett 0 0 0 - N DF DF - 1 67 Herbert 0 0 0 - N DF DF - 1 67

San Tomas Aquino Ck./ Saratoga Ck.

San Tomas Aquino

2/0 1983 0, 1, 3 R/1 N DF NP Y 0

7, 65, 66(2)

Saratoga (Campbell)

9/3 1905- 2002 0, 1, 2, 3 J/4; R/3 N DF DF Y 1, 2, 3

7, 13, 55, 61, 41, 65-67, 91, 95 (1)

Bonjetti 2/2 1981- 1996 2, 3 J/2; R/2 N DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 65-67McElroy 1/1 1981 3 J/1 N DF PB Y 0 65, 66Vasona 1/0 0 1981 3 - N UNK UNK - 0 65, 66
130

Watershed Stream/ Tributary

Yrs. Surveyed/ Quant. Data

Max. Period of Record

Data

Type

Life Hist. Stage/No. Yrs. Data

Anad.Life-CyclePossible

O. mykiss Evidence 

of Pop. Decline

Current Pop.Status

References(Pers. Comm.) Hist. Current

Wildcat 0 0 - - N UNK NP - 0 (3)Smith 1/0 0 1987 3 - N UNK NP - 0 65, 66 (2)

Calabazas Creek

Calabazas 2/0 1970s 1981 0, 3 - N DF NP Y 0 57, 65, 66 (1)Prospect 1/0 0 1981 3 - N UNK NP - 0 65, 66

Stevens Creek

Stevens 11/5 1905- 1999 1, 2, 3 J/3; S/3; R/2 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3

6, 14, 37, 54, 55, 65-67, 73, 98(1)

Swiss 1/0 0 1981 1, 3 - N DF NP - 0 65, 66, 75, 95 (2)

Perma-nente Creek

Perma-nente 3/0 1898 1996 3 R/1 N DF NP Y 0 65-67, 98Hale 1/0 0 1981 3 - N PB NP - 0 65, 66

Adobe Creek Adobe 4/0 1877 2002 3 - N DF NP Y 0 16, 45, 52, 65, 66, 98 (1)Barron / Matadero Creeks

Matadero 8/0

1905-

1987

1997

0, 1, 2, 3 M/5 N DF NP Y 0

65-67, 87, 100, 104 (2)

Barron 1/0 0 1981 3 - N UNK NP - 0 65, 66Deer 2/0 0 1981 1, 3 - N UNK NP - 0 65, 66, 89

a Table headings and codes are defined in the Methods section of this report.
131

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95. Smith, J., San Jose State University, Department of Biological Sciences. 1997. Letter to H. Fish, NMFS. Re: Steelhead/

rainbow trout in several Monterey Bay and San Francisco Bay streams. Dated June 9.

96. Smith, J. 1998. Steelhead and other fish resources of western Mt Hamilton streams. Department of Biological Sciences, 

San Jose State University, San Jose.

97. Snyder, J. O., Smithsonian Institute, Philadelphia, PA. 1898. #75314 (20+ specimens) of the US National Museum 

Fish Collection.

98. Snyder, J. O. 1905. Notes on the fishes of the streams flowing into San Francisco Bay, California. Pages 327-338 in

Report of the commissioner of fisheries.

99. Thassalt, R. C., CDFG. 1956. Stream Survey Guadalupe Creek. Report dated July 18.

100. Ulmer, L. 1986. Santa Clara County Streams: List and description of barriers to fish movement (maintained by Santa 

Clara Valley Water District). CDFG.

101. Ulmer, L., CDFG. 1987. Memo to P. Nelms, Captain, USACE. Re: Assessment of impacts to instream habitat values 

and aquatic resources of Quarry Creek, Santa Clara County. Dated December 1.

102. Ulmer, L. 1988. Summary of stream surveys and salmonid observations: Anadromous fish species utilization of 

Guadalupe River and Coyote and Penitencia Creeks, Santa Clara County (1986-1987). CDFG.

103. Wood, R., CDFG. 1970. Letter to R. H. Studeman, Santa Clara County Flood Control and Water District. Dated 

June 23.

104. Yoshioka, G., CDFG. 1987a. Memo to archives. Re: Met with Arthur Baldwin. Dated February 18.

105. Yoshioka, G. S. 1987b. Native fish of streams tributary to S.F. Bay: westside tributaries.

1. Abel, J., SCVWD, interview with B. Harvey, CEMAR, March 21, 2002, in San Jose, CA, regarding anadromous 

salmonid observations in Santa Clara Country streams tributary to the San Francisco Bay.

2. Abel, J., e-mail correspondence with G. Becker, CEMAR, October 2, 2003, regarding distribution status of salmonids 

in Santa Clara County streams.

3. Salsbery, D., interview with G. Becker, CEMAR, May 25, 2005, in San Jose, CA, regarding distribution of O. mykiss in 

Santa Clara Valley streams.

4. Smith, J., San Jose State University, telephone conversation with G. Becker, CEMAR, October 1, 2003, regarding 

steelhead and rainbow trout distribution in streams of Santa Clara and San Mateo counties.

Personal Communications
135

SANTA CLARA COUNTY MAPS

Historical status of Oncorhynchus mykiss in streams of Santa Clara County, Caliornia. 

Current status of Oncorhynchus mykiss in streams of Santa Clara County, Caliornia. 
136
141

SAN MATEO AND SAN FRANCISCO COUNTIES

San Francisquito Creek Watershed

San Francisquito Creek enters the San Francisco Estuary south of the Dumbarton Bridge and north of the Palo Alto Flood Basin. 

The watershed covers 42 square miles including drainages of the major tributaries, Los Trancos Creek, West Union Creek and 

Bear Creek. Searsville Dam, constructed in 1890 about 12.7 miles from the creek mouth, is impassable to in-migrating fish. 

The Lake Lagunita diversion dam is located about 2.5 miles downstream of Searsville Dam and also poses a significant barrier to 

spawning salmonids (Cogger et al. 1976d). A fishway was constructed on Lake Lagunita diversion dam in 1976.

San Francisquito Creek

A 1905 report notes O. mykiss in San Francisquito Creek (Snyder 1905). A 1953 DFG correspondence states that steelhead in San 

Francisquito Creek persist in portions of the creek even when the stream becomes intermittent, and that young steelhead have 

been observed in Lake Lagunita on the Stanford University campus (CDFG 1953). This lake receives creek water diverted via a 

dam and diversion channel.

A 1961 DFG letter regarding freeway construction notes a small run of steelhead most winters in San Francisquito Creek 

(Dillinger 1961). In March 1966, a DFG memorandum discussing a potential fish screen on the Lake Lagunita diversion channel 

noted reports that hundreds of small trout die there every year as it dries up (Strohschein 1966).

In July 1976, DFG visually surveyed San Francisquito Creek from the confluence with Bear Creek to the mouth. Staff cited severe 

drought conditions as resulting in low O. mykiss abundance (only ten YOY steelhead were observed) (Cogger et al. 1976d). Later 

that month, DFG electrofished four sites on San Francisquito Creek. Eight steelhead ranging from 43 to 147 mm were found in 

the vicinity of Junipero Serra Boulevard (Cogger et al. 1976a).

In June 1981, DFG visually surveyed San Francisquito Creek between El Camino Real and the Sand Hill Road crossing (on Bear 

Gulch Creek). Steelhead were common in the upper reaches and appeared to have recovered from the effects of the 1975-1976 

drought (Emig and Chapman 1981).

San Francisquito Creek was sampled at five locations in August 1981 as part of a fish distribution study. Two O. mykiss (51, 73 

mm) were collected near Alpine Road (Leidy 1984). Four downstream locations (three consisting of intermittent pools) did not 

appear to contain O. mykiss.

Leidy electrofished San Francisquito Creek upstream from the Los Trancos Creek confluence in January 1994. No O. mykiss were 

caught. However, in September 1994, he caught a 212 mm FL O. mykiss while sampling a 30-meter reach below Sand Hill Road 

(Leidy 2002).

Oncorhynchus mykiss were collected from San Francisquito Creek in summer and fall 1996 for a genetics study. Samples from 

47 O. mykiss were analyzed, and the analysis report indicated that the fish were of native trout separable from hatchery strains 

(Nielsen 2000). In 1998, SCVWD staff rescued O. mykiss from the lower reach during dewatering of the channel (J. Abel pers. 
142

comm.). Surveys conducted between 1999 and 2001 identified steelhead juveniles throughout San Francisquito Creek from 

Highway 101 to Searsville Dam (M. Stoecker pers. comm.).

In May 2002, photographs were taken of two adult steelhead (~630 mm) in lower San Francisquito Creek. A May 2002 migration 

barrier study reported Searsville Dam as the only complete barrier to migration on mainstem San Francisquito Creek. Removal of 

this dam was said to have the potential to restore ten miles of historic steelhead habitat (Stoecker 2002).

Los Trancos Creek

Los Trancos Creek drains an area of about seven square miles and consists of about 6.5 miles of channel (SCBWMI 2001). The 

creek flows generally north to join San Francisquito Creek near Interstate 280 west of Palo Alto.

In a 1962 report, Skinner indicated that Los Trancos Creek was “lightly used” as steelhead habitat (Skinner 1962). 

The Department of Fish and Game electrofished three Los Trancos Creek sites in July 1976. At the lowermost Los Trancos Road 

crossing, a 300-meter reach produced 46 O. mykiss (38-236 mm FL), and YOY were numerous (Cogger et al. 1976b). According 

to DFG, most of the salmonids electroshocked from the receding flow of Los Trancos Creek were released into the large pools of 

upper San Francisquito Creek (Anderson 1976).

According to a 1979 DFG letter, sampling was performed on Los Trancos Creek under the I-280 bridge in June 1978. At that 

time, 412 YOY O. mykiss were found in the plunge pools of the fish passage weirs (Paulsen 1979).

Three sites on Los Trancos Creek were sampled in 1981 as part of a fish distribution study. Three-year classes of O. mykiss

appeared to be represented in a 20 meter isolated pool immediately downstream of Arastradero Road. Fish collected included five 

O. mykiss measuring 71-92 mm FL and two larger individuals (190, 335 mm). Surveys at two downstream locations (at Westridge 

Drive and upstream from Interstate 280) and one upstream location (at the second Los Trancos Road crossing) revealed no O. 

mykiss (Leidy 1984).

In January and September 1994, Leidy electrofished a reach of Los Trancos Creek just upstream from the San Francisquito Creek 

confluence. He caught four O. mykiss (68, 68, 89, 90 mm FL) in January and estimated density at 10 per 30 meters (Leidy 2002). 

In September, he caught five O. mykiss (65–90 mm) and estimated density at 20 per 30 meters. In June 1998, Leidy electrofished 

Los Trancos Creek approximately 325 feet upstream from Pleasant Hill Road. No O. mykiss were found (Leidy 2002).

Stream surveys conducted from 1999-2001 found O. mykiss in Los Trancos Creek up to approximately 0.7 miles upstream from 

the east fork confluence. Oncorhynchus mykiss also were observed 150 feet upstream of the “PV Ranch tributary” and in the 

east fork up to a culvert under Los Trancos Road (M. Stoecker pers. comm.). In April 2003, an adult steelhead was sighted in 

Los Trancos Creek. Multiple age classes of O. mykiss and redds have been consistently identified from 1997 to the present (M. 

Stoecker pers. comm.).
143

Bear Creek

Bear Creek drains an area of about 13 square miles and is formed by two major tributaries, Bear Gulch Creek and West Union 

Creek. It flows generally south in the vicinity of the town of Woodside.

In July 1974, DFG electrofished three sites on Bear Creek. Results are presented in Table VI-1.

Table VI-1. DFG O. mykiss electrofishing results, Bear Creek, 1974

Location No. Age Class

(years)

Size Range

(mm FL)

50 m reach upstream from 

Sand Hill Rd.

31

17

YOY

1+

~50

 94-107

50 m reach downstream 

from Fox Hollow Rd.

7

21

1

YOY

1+

2+

 61-64

 79-97

145

At the Mountain Home 

Rd. bridge

23

12

YOY

2+

 71-20

160-211

(Strohschein 1974).

In June 1976, DFG visually surveyed Bear Creek between its mouth and headwaters at the confluence of West Union and Bear 

Gulch Creeks. The Department of Fish and Game found about 150 O. mykiss fingerlings, despite severe drought conditions in 

that year (Cogger et al. 1976c). In July 1976, DFG followed up the stream survey on Bear Creek with an electrofishing survey. 

A total of 36 O. mykiss (41-211 mm) were sampled from sites upstream of Sand Hill Road and upstream of Mountain Home 

Road (Cogger et al. 1976a). According to DFG, most of the salmonids electroshocked from the isolated pools of Bear Creek were 

released into the large pools of upper San Francisquito Creek (Anderson 1976).

In June 1978, DFG electrofished Bear Creek at Sand Hill Road and at Mountain Home Road. Two O. mykiss (81 and 97 mm FL) 

were caught and measured, while 50-75 YOY and three larger individuals (~125 mm) were observed but could not be captured 

due to faulty equipment (Torres and Paulsen 1978). In August 1979, DFG electrofished Bear Creek at Mountain Home Road. 

Three O. mykiss (170, 188, and 216 mm FL) and 82 YOY (51-104 mm) were collected. The Department of Fish and Game noted 

an apparent lack of age 1+ fish and attributed it to a lack of recruitment in 1978 (Anderson 1979).

In 1984, an isolated pool 0.2 miles downstream from Adobe Corner was sampled as part of a fish distribution study. Five O. 

mykiss (59-111 mm) were found in a ten-meter reach (Leidy 1984). In June 1985, DFG visually surveyed Bear Creek from the 

confluence of West Union and Bear Gulch Creeks to Sandhill Road. Oncorhynchus mykiss was observed, but the surveyor stated 

that positive identification could not be confirmed until electrofishing was employed (Bordenave and Ford 1985).

An adult steelhead was observed in Bear Creek in 1995 (685 mm) and in 1998 (760 mm), respectively (M. Stoecker pers. 

comm.). Surveys conducted from 1999 to 2001 identified juvenile steelhead throughout Bear Creek (M. Stoecker pers. comm.). 

As of 2003, an anadromous Oncorhynchus mykiss population appears to utilize the entire length of Bear Creek from the confluence 

of West Union and Bear Gulch creeks to the San Francisquito Creek confluence (M. Stoecker pers. comm.).
144

Dry Creek

Dry Creek is tributary to Bear Creek and runs from north to south parallel to Canada Road. In 1999 juvenile steelhead were 

observed fifty feet upstream from the Woodside Road crossing (M. Stoecker pers. comm.).

Bear Gulch Creek

Bear Gulch Creek is tributary to Bear Creek. An isolated pool at La Honda Road was sampled in August 1981 as part of a fish 

distribution study. Three O. mykiss (140, 143, 245 mm) were caught in a seven-meter reach (Leidy 1984).

In June 1999, an adult steelhead (790 mm) was rescued from a pool above Highway 84. Juvenile steelhead were observed 

throughout the creek below the diversion dam during surveys conducted between 1999 and 2001 (M. Stoecker pers. comm.).

A study of salmonid migration barriers on Bear Gulch Creek found the CalWater diversion dam, located approximately 0.25 

miles upstream of the Highway 84 crossing, to be an impassable barrier for upstream migrating adult steelhead under most flow 

conditions (Stoecker 2002). An anadromous O. mykiss population successfully reproduces below this barrier. The creek upstream 

from this barrier is considered to provide high quality salmonid habitat, and currently supports a resident O. mykiss population 

(M. Stoecker pers. comm.).

West Union Creek

West Union Creek is tributary to Bear Creek and drains an area of about seven square miles. It flows generally south through the 

San Andreas rift zone.

The Department of Fish and Game electrofished a site on West Union Creek at the confluence with Bear Gulch Creek in July 

1974. A total of 27 O. mykiss representing three age classes were collected (11: 48-53 mm FL; 15: 86-97 mm FL; 1: 173 mm FL) 

(Strohschein 1974).

In June 1976 (a drought year), DFG visually surveyed West Union Creek between the mouth and a twin natural falls. YOY and 

age 1+ and 2+ O. mykiss were observed in intermittent reaches from the mouth to 75 yards upstream of Kings Mountain Road 

(Cogger et al. 1976e). In July 1976, DFG followed up the stream survey on West Union Creek with an electrofishing survey. 

A total of 31 O. mykiss (43-224 mm FL) were collected upstream of Huddart Park and downstream of Kings Mountain Road 

(Cogger et al. 1976a). According to DFG, most of the salmonids electroshocked from isolated pools of West Union Creek were 

released into the large pools of upper San Francisquito Creek (Anderson 1976).

An isolated pool on West Union Creek near the confluence with Bear Creek was sampled in August 1984 as part of a fish 

distribution study. Four O. mykiss (51, 53, 106, 162 mm FL) were found in a three-meter reach, and another 12 (52-69 mm) in a 

five-meter pool immediately upstream (Leidy 1984).

In July 1985, DFG electrofished five West Union Creek sites above and below a diversion at 345 King’s Mountain Road. Sixtytwo O. mykiss (52-250 mm FL) were collected representing multiple age classes (Ford 1985b). The Department of Fish and Game 

also surveyed West Union Creek between the mouth and the twin falls in July 1985. Oncorhynchus mykiss (50-75 mm) were 
145

observed to be moderately abundant in pools from the mouth of West Union Creek to the second logjam above Squeler Gulch. A 

larger individual (100-125 mm) was seen upstream of Squeler Gulch (Ford 1985a).

The National Park Service (NPS) conducted snorkel surveys of West Union Creek sites in July 1996. The counts noted 143 

steelhead in nine surveyed pools totaling 132 meters in length. Steelhead were mostly between 30 and 89 mm, with larger 

individuals (>120 mm) recorded at only two sites. Juvenile O. mykiss densities varied from about 0.3-5.4 per square meter 

(Fong 2002). 

Leidy noted juvenile O. mykiss (50-75 mm TL) in pools between Huddart Park and the Phleger Estate fence in October 1999 

(Leidy 2002). In July and November 1999, NPS again conducted snorkel surveys coupled with electrofishing in West Union 

Creek. About 69 O. mykiss were collected representing YOY and age 1+ and 2+ fish (44-178 mm) (Fong 2002). Oncorhynchus 

mykiss currently reproduce in West Union Creek from its confluence with Bear Gulch Creek upstream to a natural waterfall that 

presents a complete barrier to migration (M. Stoecker pers. comm.).

Squeler Gulch Creek

Squeler Gulch Creek is tributary to West Union Creek. In a 1990 survey, Smith found juvenile O. mykiss in the lower 0.5 mile of 

the creek (J. Smith pers. comm.).

McGarvey Gulch Creek

McGarvey Gulch Creek is tributary to Bear Creek. In July 1974, DFG electrofished a 90 meter reach of McGarvey Gulch Creek 

downstream from the Woodside Road Bridge. The survey noted 11 YOY O. mykiss (48-53 mm FL), 15 age 1+ (86-97 mm) and 

one larger individual (173 mm) (Strohschein 1974).

Stream surveys conducted between 1999 and 2001 identified juvenile steelhead in the lower 0.3 miles of the McGarvey Gulch 

Creek (M. Stoecker pers. comm.). Anadromous O. mykiss currently utilize McGarvey Gulch creek up to a bridge apron and 

culvert located about 0.7 miles upstream from the mouth (M. Stoecker pers. comm.).

Corte Madera Creek

Corte Madera Creek is tributary to San Francisquito Creek via Searsville Lake. It drains the San Andreas rift zone area south of 

the lake in the vicinity of Portola Valley.

In a 1962 report, Skinner indicated that Corte Madera Creek was an historical migration route for steelhead (Skinner 1962). 

Oncorhynchus mykiss have been observed in Corte Madera Creek since at least the late 1970s (M. Stoecker pers. comm.). Three 

Corte Madera Creek locations were sampled in September 1981 as part of a fish distribution study. Fifty-two O. mykiss (35-86 

mm FL) were found in a ten-meter reach at Willowbrook Road. At the junction of Coal Creek, 26 O. mykiss (32-62 mm) were 

caught in a 25-meter metreach along with two larger O. mykiss (98, 137 mm). A 15 meter isolated pool at Portola Valley Road 

produced no fish (Leidy 1984). In the spring of 1991, an adult steelhead (740 mm) was observed jumping at the base of Searsville 

Dam (M. Stoecker pers. comm.).
146

Oncorhynchus mykiss were observed throughout Corte Madera Creek from Searsville Reservoir upstream to a point 400 feet 

upstream of the Coal Creek confluence during barrier surveys conducted between 1999-2001 (M. Stoecker pers. comm.). In May 

2002, the San Francisquito Watershed Council released a barrier survey including Corte Madera Creek. A private bridge apron 

adjacent to Willowbrook Drive and another downstream of the confluence with Damiani Creek (upstream from Searsville Lake) 

were described as impassable barriers to upstream migrating O. mykiss (Stoecker 2002).

Corte Madera Creek below Searsville Dam currently supports an anadromous O. mykiss population, and observations of juvenile 

O. mykiss have been made as recently as September 2003. A resident population exists above Searsville Reservoir upstream to the 

Old Alpine Road crossing (M. Stoecker pers. comm.).

Alambique Creek

The historical confluence of Alambique Creek with Corte Madera Creek was inundated by the construction of Searsville Lake. 

One Alambique Creek site was sampled in August 1981 as part of a fish distribution study. Two O. mykiss (45, 52 mm FL) were 

collected where the creek crosses La Honda Road (Leidy 1984). In May 2002, the culvert beneath Highway 84 was identified as 

an impassable barrier to upstream migration (Stoecker 2002).

Hamms Gulch Creek

Hamms Gulch is tributary to Corte Madera Creek. Oncorhynchus mykiss currently uses the lower 150 feet of Hamms Gulch Creek 

(M. Stoecker pers. comm.).

Damiani Gulch Creek

Damiani Gulch is one of the larger tributaries of Corte Madera Creek. Oncorhynchus mykiss are currently present in the lower 150 

feet of Jones Gulch Creek (M. Stoecker pers. comm.).

Coal Creek

Coal Creek is tributary to Corte Madera Creek. Surveys from 1999-2001 consistently found O. mykiss in the lower 250 feet of the 

stream (M. Stoecker pers. comm.).

Assessment: The San Francisquito Creek drainage historically supported a steelhead run that continues, albeit in limited 

numbers, to the present day. Rearing habitat on mainstem San Francisquito Creek was reduced by the construction of Searsville 

Dam in 1890. Habitat is available in Los Trancos Creek, in the lower reaches of West Union Creek and Bear Creek, and in the 

upper reaches of San Francisquito Creek (Cogger et al. 1976e).

Redwood Creek Watershed

Redwood Creek drains the primarily urbanized environs of Redwood City. It issues into San Francisco Bay at Redwood Point.
147

Redwood Creek

Two Redwood Creek sites were sampled in August 1981 as part of a fish distribution study. Neither the north branch nor the 

south branch site contained O. mykiss (Leidy 1984).

Arroyo Ojo

Two Arroyo Ojo sites were sampled in August 1981 as part of a fish distribution study. Oncorhynchus mykiss was not detected 

(Leidy 1984).

Assessment: Insufficient information exists to assess the historical distribution and current status of salmonids in the Redwood 

Creek watershed.

Cordilleras Creek Watershed

Cordillera Creek originates in the Pulgras-Ridge Open Space Preserve west of Redwood City. It drains a primary urbanized 

landscape before issuing into Smith Slough at the San Carlos Airport.

Cordilleras Creek

Three Cordilleras Creek sites were sampled in August 1981 as part of a fish distribution study. No O. mykiss were found by 

seining at any of the sites between Grant-Industrial Road and Cordilleras Road (Leidy 1984).

Assessment: Insufficient information exists to assess the historical distribution and current status of salmonids in the Cordilleras 

Creek watershed.

Belmont Creek Watershed

Belmont Creek drains urbanized portions of the cities of Belmont and San Carlos. It enters the San Francisco Bay via Belmont 

Slough in the vicinity of Foster City.

Belmont Creek

Three Belmont Creek sites were sampled in August 1981 as part of a fish distribution study. Oncorhynchus mykiss was not found 

at any of the sites between Industrial Road and Belmont Reservoir. The survey noted that Belmont Creek was highly disturbed 

(Leidy 1984).

Assessment: Insufficient information exists to assess the historical distribution and current status of salmonids in the Belmont 

Creek watershed.
148

Laurel Creek Watershed

Laurel Creek originates in the developed area west of the city of Belmont and east of Highway 92. The creek appears to enter a 

below-grade culvert between El Camino Real and Highway 101 that carries the creek to the San Francisco Estuary.

Laurel Creek

Five Laurel Creek sites were sampled in August 1981 as part of a fish distribution study. No O. mykiss were found during seining 

at the sites between Hillsdale Mall and the end of Laurelwood Road. However, high quality habitat was noted at the upper 

location, and the researcher noted that a diversion tunnel just downstream of the sampling area appeared to pose a total barrier to 

migration (Leidy 1984).

Assessment: Insufficient information exists to assess the historical distribution and current status of salmonids in the Laurel 

Creek watershed.

San Mateo Creek Watershed

Crystal Springs Reservoir, constructed in 1877 and operated by the SFPUC, separated upstream and downstream salmonid 

populations. The outlet of Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir is located near the junction of Crystal Springs Road and Interstate 

280. The creek flows then flows east to enter the San Francisco Bay near Seal Point Shoreline Park.

San Mateo Creek

In 1860, prior to the construction of San Andreas and Lower Crystal Springs reservoirs, O. mykiss specimens were collected from 

San Mateo Creek (Museum of Comparative Zoology 1860). 

San Mateo Creek was sampled in August 1981 as part of a fish distribution study. Seven O. mykiss (50-131 mm FL) were collected 

by net in a 20-meter reach below Sierra Drive near Crystal Springs School. A single 108 mm O. mykiss was found in a 30-meter 

metreach on Crystal Springs Road (0.6 miles downstream from Polhemus Road), and two O. mykiss (91, 106 mm) were captured 

in a ten-meter reach at the junction of Crystal Springs and Polhemus Roads. An additional site 0.1-mile reach upstream produced 

no O. mykiss (Leidy 1984).

Leidy electrofished San Mateo Creek immediately upstream from Crystal Springs Reservoir in March 1988 and found 11 O. 

mykiss (9: 100-130mm; 2: ~90mm) in a 30-meter reach (Leidy 2002). During a survey of peninsula watershed lands in November 

1991, O. mykiss was collected by electrofishing at two San Mateo Creek sites, the first immediately downstream of Mud Dam 

Lake and the second downstream of Crystal Springs Reservoir (Smith 1991). An additional six sites did not contain O. mykiss. 

The sampling was conducted during an extreme drought, which was said to have limited otherwise much more extensive habitat 

(Smith 1991). The survey report noted that the watershed lands around Crystal Springs Reservoir have been protected over a long 

period of time, offering the potential for retaining significant native fish populations (Smith 1991).
149

Leidy electrofished San Mateo Creek again in December 1993, finding O. mykiss at all four locations sampled (Leidy 2002). At 

Baywood Avenue, a 198 mm O. mykiss was the only fish in a 100-meter reach. However, upstream at Sierra Drive he caught 23 

O. mykiss (59-280 mm) and observed ten in the same size range in a 30-meter reach. At the Tartan Trail Drive crossing, 13 O. 

mykiss (71-225 mm) were collected in a 50-meter reach, and five were observed in the same size range. And at Arroyo Court, just 

upstream from the De Ana Camp Historical Marker, Leidy caught two O. mykiss (192, 202mm) in a 30-meter reach.

Polhemus Creek

Polhemus Creek was sampled in August 1981 as part of a fish distribution study. Seven O. mykiss (196-322 mm FL) were 

collected in a ten-meter pool below a culvert located 0.3 miles upstream from the junction of Crystal Springs Road and Polhemus 

Road. Nine O. mykiss (72-122 mm) were found in a series of steep cascade pools about 160 feet downstream. The surveyors 

judged the culvert to be a migration barrier, which was supported by the absence of fish at an upstream location (Leidy 1984).

Assessment: The San Mateo Creek watershed historically supported O. mykiss, and small numbers of anadromous steelhead may 

use the area below Crystal Springs Reservoir. Additional sampling is recommended to characterize the O. mykiss resources of the 

reservoir and tributary areas upstream.

Sanchez Creek Watershed

Sanchez Creek drains urbanized areas in the vicinity of the cities of Hillsborough and Burlingame. It enters the San Francisco 

Estuary west of Coyote Point County Park.

Sanchez Creek

One Sanchez Creek site was sampled in August 1981 as part of a fish distribution study. No O. mykiss were found at the South 

Pacific Railroad Crossing and at Front View Avenue in Hillborough (Leidy 1984).

Assessment: Insufficient information exists to assess the historical distribution and current status of salmonids in the Sanchez 

Creek watershed.

Easton Creek Watershed

Easton Creek drains urbanized areas north of Hillsborough and west of Burlingame. The creek appears to enter a below-grade 

culvert in the vicinity of El Camino Real that carries flows to the San Francisco Estuary.

Easton Creek

Easton Creek was sampled near Roosevelt School as part of a fish distribution study in September 1981. No fish of any kind were 

encountered (Leidy 1984).
150

Assessment: Insufficient information exists to assess the historical distribution and current status of salmonids in the Easton 

Creek watershed.

Mills Creek Drainage

Mills Creek drains developed areas south of Millbrae. The creek appears to be channelized between the Southern Pacific Railroad 

right of way and the estuary to the east.

Mills Creek

A 1958 stream survey identified O. mykiss in Mills Creek (CDFG 1958). Mills Creek was sampled by pole-seine at California 

Drive in September 1981 as part of a fish distribution study. No O. mykiss were found (Leidy 1984).

Assessment: Insufficient information exists to assess the historical distribution and current status of salmonids in the Mills Creek 

watershed.

Colma Creek Watershed

Colma Creek originates in the town of Colma, draining portions of Colma, San Bruno and South San Francisco. It enters the San 

Francisco Estuary south of Point San Bruno.

Colma Creek

Two Colma Creek sites were sampled in September 1981 as part of a fish distribution study. No O. mykiss were collected, and 

field notes state the creek was very disturbed (Leidy 1984).

In May 2002, Leidy surveyed Colma Creek between the mouth and headwaters. No O. mykiss were observed, nor was suitable 

habitat present (Leidy 2002).

Assessment: Insufficient information exists to assess the historical distribution of salmonids in the Colma Creek watershed. The 

watershed currently does not contain suitable habitat to support salmonids.
151

Watershed Stream/ Tributary

Yrs. Surveyed/ Quant. Data

Max. Period of Record

Data

Type

Life Hist. Stage/No. Yrs. Data

Anad.Life-CyclePossible

O. mykiss Evidence 

of Pop. Decline

Current Pop.Status

References(Pers. Comm.) Hist. Current

San Francisquito Creek

San Francisquito 12/4 1905- 2002 0, 1, 2, 3 J/7; R/1; M/1 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3

4, 6, 9, 11, 12, 16, 17, 19, 24-26 (1, 3)

Los Trancos 15/4 1976- 2003 1, 2, 3 J/14; R/9; M/1 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 1, 7, 16, 17, 20, 22 (3)Bear 11/7 1974- 2003 1, 2 J/8; R/3; M/2 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 1-3, 6, 8, 16, 27, 28 (3)Dry 1/1 1999 1 J/1 Y DF DF - 1 (3)

Bear Gulch 4/2 1981- 2003 3 J/4; R/1; M/1 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 16, 25 (3)

West Union 6/6 1976- 2003 1, 2, 3 J/6; R/4 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 1, 6, 10, 13-16, 27 (3)Squeler Gulch 1/0 1990 1 J/1 N DF DF - 1, 2 (2)

McGarvey Gulch 4/1 1974- 2003 1, 2 J/4; R/1 Y DF DF - 1, 2, 3 27(3)

Corte Madera 3/2 1981- 2003 1, 3 J/2; M/1 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 16, 25 (3)

Alambique 1/1 1981 3 J/1 N DF PB - 1 16, 25

Hamms Gulch 1/0 2003 1 - N DF DF - 1 (3)Damiani Gulch 1/0 2003 1 - N DF DF - 1 (3)

Table VI-2. Distribution status of O. mykiss in San Francisco Estuary streams of San Mateo and San Francisco Counties, Californiaa
152

Watershed Stream/ Tributary

Yrs. Surveyed/ Quant. Data

Max. Period of Record

Data

Type

Life Hist. Stage/No. Yrs. Data

Anad.Life-CyclePossible

O. mykiss Evidence 

of Pop. Decline

Current Pop.Status

References(Pers. Comm.) Hist. Current

Coal 1/0 1999- 2001 1 - N DF DF - 1 (3)

Redwood Creek Redwood 1/0 0 1981 3 - N UNK NP - 0 16

Arroyo Ojo 1/0 0 1981 3 - N UNK NP - 0 16

Cordilleras Creek Cordilleras 1/0 0 1981 3 - N UNK UNK - 0 16Belmont Creek Belmont 1/0 0 1981 3 - N UNK UNK - 0 16Laurel Creek Laurel 1/0 0 1981 3 - N UNK UNK - 0 16San Mateo Creek San Mateo 4/4 1860- 93 2, 3 J/3; R/1 UNK DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 16-18, 23

Polhemus 1/1 1981 3 J/1; R/1 UNK DF PB - 0 16

Sanchez Creek Sanchez 1/0 0 1981 3 - UNK UNK UNK - 0 16Easton Creek Easton 1/0 0 1981 3 - UNK UNK UNK - 0 16Mills Creek Mills 2/0 1958 1981 1, 3 - UNK DF UNK Y 0 5, 16Colma Creek Colma 2/0 0 2002 1, 3 - N UNK NP - 0 16, 17

a Table headings and codes are defined in the Methods section of this report.
153

1. Anderson, K. R., CDFG. 1976. Memo to Fisheries Management Region 3. Re: Fish Population Sampling, San 

Francisquito Creek Drainage (West Union, Bear, Los Trancos, and San Francisquito Creeks), San Mateo County; July 

1976. Dated July 30.

2. Anderson, K. R., CDFG. 1979. Memo to Fisheries Management Region 3. Re: Fish Population Sampling, Bear Creek, 

San Mateo County; August 9, 1979. Dated September 19.

3. Bordenave, L., and J. Ford, DFG. 1985. Stream Survey Bear Creek. Report dated June 21 & 27.

4. CDFG. 1953. Letter to N. Cross. Re: San Francisquito Creek, Santa Clara County. Dated November 16.

5. CDFG. 1958. Stream Survey Mills Creek.

6. Cogger, M., R. Curtis, and G. Scoppettone. 1976a. Fish Survey Reports. CDFG.

7. Cogger, M., R. Curtis, and G. Scoppettone. 1976b. Los Trancos Creek, San Mateo County. CDFG.

8. Cogger, M., R. Curtis, and G. Scoppettone, CDFG. 1976c. Stream Survey Bear Creek. Report dated June 24.

9. Cogger, M., R. Curtis, and G. Scoppettone, CDFG. 1976d. Stream Survey San Francisquito Creek. Report dated July 1, 

2, and 5.

10. Cogger, M., R. Curtis, and G. Scoppettone, CDFG. 1976e. Stream Survey West Union Creek. Report dated June 29.

11. Dillinger, W. C., CDFG. 1961. Letter to J. P. Sinclair. Re: San Francisquito Creek, San Mateo/Santa Clara Counties. 

Dated December 5.

12. Emig, J. W., and T. Chapman, CDFG. 1981. Stream Survey San Francisquito Creek. Report dated June 30.

13. Fong, D. 2002. Summer Stream Habitat and Fish Surveys for West Union Creek, 1996 & 1999, Golden Gate National 

Recreation Area. National Park Service.

14. Ford, J., CDFG. 1985a. Stream Survey west Union Creek and tributaries. Report dated October 10.

15. Ford, J., CDFG. 1985b. Memo to file. Re: West Union Creek, San Mateo County - water diversion at 345 King’s 

Mountain Road, Woodside. Dated September 13.

16. Leidy, R. A. 1984. Distribution and Ecology of Stream Fishes in the San Francisco Bay Drainage (and associated 

unpublished data, 1981-1984). Hilgardia 52(8).

17. Leidy, R. A., USEPA. 2002. Unpublished stream survey data 1992-2002.

18. Museum of Comparative Zoology. 1860. Ichthyology collection nos. MCZ 7123:4 MCZ 68471:4 Eight coho salmon 

collected from San Mateo Creek by Alexander Agassiz. Harvard University.

19. Nielsen, J. L. 2000. Microsatellite Analysis of San Francisquito Creek Rainbow Trout. Alaska Biological Science Center.

20. Paulsen, I. L., CDFG. 1979. Letter to S. L. Millich. Dated April 25.

21. SCBWMI. 2001. Watershed management plan, Volume One unabridged, watershed characteristics report, Chapter 7: 

natural setting (amended December 2003). Santa Clara Basin Watershed Management Initiative.

22. Skinner, J. E. 1962. Fish and Wildlife Resources of the San Francisco Bay Area.

23. Smith, J. J. 1991. Summary of fish sampling results for the streams of San Francisco Water Department’s peninsula 

watershed lands (near Crystal Springs reservoirs). SFWD.

24. Snyder, J. O. 1905. Notes on the fishes of the streams flowing into San Francisco Bay, California. Pages 327-338 in

Report of the commissioner of fisheries.

25. Stoecker, M. 2002. Salmonid Migration Barriers/Impediments in the San Francisquito Creek Watershed, San Francisco 

Bay, CA. San Francisquito Creek Watershed Council.

References
154

26. Strohschein, W. E., CDFG. 1966. Memo to file. Re: Investigation of drainage channel at Stanford Dam on San 

Francisquito Creek, Santa Clara County. Dated March 21.

27. Strohschein, W. E., CDFG. 1974. Memo to Fisheries Management Region 3. Re: San Francisquito Creek drainage, San 

Mateo County; streamflow measurements and fish sampling activities. Dated August 23.

28. Torres, S. G., and I. L. Paulsen, CDFG. 1978. Memo to Fisheries Management Region 3. Re: Fish Population 

Sampling, Bear Creek Drainage, San Mateo County; June 29, 1978. Dated August 9.

1. Abel, J., SCVWD, interview with B. Harvey, CEMAR, March 21, 2002, in San Jose, CA, regarding anadromous 

salmonid observations in Santa Clara Country streams tributary to the San Francisco Bay.

2. Smith, J., San Jose State University, telephone conversation with G. Becker, CEMAR, October 1, 2003, regarding 

steelhead and rainbow trout distribution in streams of Santa Clara and San Mateo counties.

3. Stoecker, M., telephone conversation with B. Harvey, CEMAR, September 18, 2003, regarding observations of steelhead 

in the San Francisquito drainage.

Personal Communications 
155

SAN MATEO COUNTY & SAN FRANCISCO COUNTY MAPS

Historical status of Oncorhynchus mykiss in streams of San Mateo County & San Francisco County, Caliornia. 

Current status of Oncorhynchus mykiss in streams of San Mateo County & San Francisco County, Caliornia. 
156
161

MARIN COUNTY

Coyote Creek Watershed

Coyote Creek originates on the eastern face of the Marin Peninsula range and flows generally east to enter the San Francisco 

Estuary in Richardson Bay. The Coyote Creek watershed consists of about 3.6 square miles. Oakwood Valley Creek joins Coyote 

Creek from the south in the lower Tamalpais Valley. 

Coyote Creek

According to local residents, Coyote Creek supported steelhead prior to the construction of a U.S. Army Corps flood project 

in 1965 (L. Lewis pers. comm.). One location on a branch of Coyote Creek at the GGNRA trailhead along Tennessee Valley 

Road was sampled in September 1981 as part of a fish distribution study. No salmonids were found (Leidy 1984). Leidy sampled 

Coyote Creek near the terminus of Northern Avenue in October 1993 and did not find any fish (Leidy 2002). Marin County 

PWA staff indicates that salmonids do not presently use Coyote Creek (L. Lewis pers. comm.).

Assessment: Coyote Creek likely supported steelhead historically. However, flood control projects and other watershed factors 

appear to have made the creek unusable by O. mykiss populations.

Arroyo Corte Madera Del Presidio Watershed

Arroyo Corte Madera del Presidio drains the east side of Mount Tamalpais and areas including and around the town of Mill 

Valley. The creek drains a watershed of about six square miles and its tributaries include Old Mill Creek, Reed Creek, Widow 

Reed Creek and Warner Creek. A fish passage assessment performed in 2002-2003 notes that several culverted portions of the 

arroyo impede fish passage and should be modified (Ross Taylor and Assoc. 2003). The reach immediately upstream from the Old 

Mill Creek confluence was ranked as a high priority passage improvement project. 

Arroyo Corte Madera del Presidio

In January 1946, DFG visually surveyed several sites on Arroyo Corte Madera del Presidio. Oncorhynchus mykiss in good 

condition were identified at Montford Avenue and at Sunnyside Avenue. Two dead O. mykiss (100-125 mm) were found at the 

Park Avenue bridge (Shapovalov 1946a).

In July 1963, DFG visually surveyed the entire length of Arroyo Corte Madera del Presidio and its tributaries. Small numbers of 

fingerling and YOY steelhead were observed (10 per 30 meters) ranging in size from 50-150 mm, but predominantly 50 mm in 

length (Brackett 1963). The survey report noted that 3.5 miles of Corte Madera del Presidio are utilized for spawning and rearing 

purposes, and cited the creek as an important spawning and nursery area for steelhead and possibly salmon (Brackett 1963).

In August 1965, DFG visually surveyed Arroyo Corte Madera del Presidio, finding many “excellent” spawning areas and frequent, 

well-shaded pools. Oncorhynchus mykiss averaged approximately 75 per 30 meters of channel, and a sample of 20 fish ranged 
162

in size from 46-71 mm (Culley and Fox 1965). The creek was said to be a good spawning and nursery area for steelhead trout 

(Culley and Fox 1965).

In 1981,Arroyo Corte Madera del Presidio was sampled by dipnet at Locust Road. Eleven O. mykiss (52-109 mm FL) were 

collected (Leidy 1984).

As part of a restoration feasibility study, several Arroyo Corte Madera sites were sampled by electrofishing in October and 

November 1994. Oncorhynchus mykiss was collected near downtown Mill Valley and in Miller Grove Park, while downstream sites 

did not produce salmonids (Rich 1995). Population density at the two sites with O. mykiss were 0.7 per square meter and less than 

0.1 per square meter, respectively. At the downtown Mill Valley site, O. mykiss found ranged from 40-90 mm in length, with one 

individual at 140-150 mm. The Miller Grove Park site had O. mykiss between 40 and 160 mm, with three fish between 170 and 

200 mm. Three or four age classes were represented in the sample (Rich 1995).

In July 1997, Leidy electrofished Arroyo Corte Madera del Presidio at four locations and found at least four age classes of O. 

mykiss present (Leidy 2002). At La Gama Street he caught two O. mykiss (135, 150 mm FL) in a 30-meter reach. Immediately 

downstream of Park Avenue in Mill Valley, he caught 15 O. mykiss (100-307 mm) at an estimated density of 25 per 30 meters of 

stream. A 20-meter reach just downstream from Presidio Road yielded four O. mykiss (59-173 mm). Additionally, Leidy caught 

12 O. mykiss (47-195 mm) in a 30-meter reach centered at West Blithedale Road (Leidy 2002).

Willow Reed Creek (Widow Creek)

Willow Reed Creek drains Homestead Valley and enters Arroyo Corte Madera del Presidio from the west. According to records of 

the Mill Valley Historical Society, Blithedale Dam was constructed on Widow Creek in the 1870s. The dam was equipped with a 

fish ladder known to pass anadromous salmonids (Rich 1995). 

During observations in the summer of 2004, staff from Marin County noted YOY and age 1+ O. mykiss in Willow Reed Creek (L. 

Lewis pers. comm.). Successful O. mykiss reproduction is assumed to be occurring in the creek.

Warner Creek

Warner Creek originates near the Mill Valley Golf Club on the slopes north of Mill Valley. The creek drains an area of about 5.2 

square miles. 

In July 1963, DFG visually surveyed the entire length of Arroyo Corte Madera del Presidio Creek and its tributaries, including 

Warner Creek. Small numbers of fingerling and YOY steelhead were observed (10 per 30 meters) ranging in size from 50-150 

mm, but predominantly 50 mm in length (Brackett 1963).

Leidy electrofished Warner Creek at Boyle Park off East Blithedale and Elm Boulevard in 1997. No O. mykiss were found (Leidy 

2002). During observations in the summer of 2004, staff from Marin County noted YOY O. mykiss in Warner Creek (L. Lewis 

pers. comm.). Successful O. mykiss reproduction is assumed to be occurring in the creek.
163

Old Mill Creek

Old Mill Creek drains the southeastern slopes of Mt. Tamalpais and joins Arroyo Corte Madera del Presidio in the town of Mill 

Valley. A fish passage evaluation performed in 2002-2003 noted that the culverted reach of Old Mill Creek beneath the post office 

in Mill Valley is a severe barrier to migration of all life stages of steelhead (Ross Taylor and Assoc. 2003). According to records 

of the Mill Valley Historical Society, Cascade Dam, located on Old Mill Creek above the confluence with Cascade Creek, was 

constructed in the 1870s (Rich 1995). The dam constitutes a complete barrier to upstream fish passage. 

A January 1946 DFG survey reported natural propagation of O. mykiss in Old Mill Creek as “fair” in the lower reach to “good” 

in the middle reach (Shapovalov 1946b). According to the survey report, steelhead were hampered in their ascent by an inclined 

concrete apron at the Cascade Drive bridge in Old Mill Park (Shapovalov 1946b). The Cascade Reservoir dam was identified as a 

complete barrier to migration (Shapovalov 1946b).

In July 1963, DFG visually surveyed Arroyo Corte Madera del Presidio Creek and its tributaries, including Old Mill Creek. Small 

numbers of fingerling and yearling steelhead were observed throughout the Arroyo Corte Madera del Presidio system (10 per 30 

m), ranging in size from 50-150 mm, with most fish measuring approximately 50 mm (Brackett 1963).

In September 1981, a dip-net survey of three sites on Old Mill Creek found 15 O. mykiss approximately 0.5 miles above the 

junction of Cascade Drive and Lowell Avenue (Leidy 1984). Fish ranged in size from 62-116 mm, with one individual 174 mm 

in length recorded. At the Cascade Drive crossing near Josephine St., seven O. mykiss ranged in size from 50-71 mm. At Locust 

Road, 11 O. mykiss ranged from 52-109 mm (Leidy 1984).

As part of a restoration feasibility study, several Old Mill Creek sites were sampled by electrofishing in October and November 

1994. Oncorhynchus mykiss was collected at multiple sites, with mostly YOY represented in the sample (Rich 1995). These O. 

mykiss were predominantly between 40 and 200 mm in length, with one individual between 250 and 260 mm. Three or four age 

classes were represented in the Old Mill Creek population (Rich 1995).

In July 1997, Leidy electrofished Old Mill Creek approximately 0.5 miles below Cascade Dam. He found 11 O. mykiss (47-69 

mm FL) at an estimated density of 15 per 30 meters of stream (Leidy 2002). Steelhead YOY were found in Old Mill Creek during 

observations between 1998 and 2001 (Jones 2001).

Cascade Creek

Cascade Creek joins Old Mill Creek from the north approximately 0.4 mile below Cascade Dam. In July 1963, DFG visually 

surveyed the entire length of Arroyo Corte Madera del Presidio Creek and its tributaries, including Cascade Creek. Small numbers 

of fingerling and yearling steelhead were observed throughout the Arroyo Corte Madera del Presidio system (10 per 30 meters). 

Fish ranged in size from 50-150 mm, but were predominantly 50 mm in length (Brackett 1963).

In September 1981, two sites were dip-netted on Cascade Creek, but no O. mykiss were found (Leidy 1984). Leidy sampled 

Cascade Creek at the Old Mill Creek confluence in October 1993. No fish of any kind were found. 
164

As part of a restoration feasibility study, Cascade Creek was sampled in October and November 1994. One O. mykiss was 

collected above the culvert at the entrance to the Cascade Falls trail (Rich 1995). In July 1997, Leidy electrofished a 20 meter 

reach of Cascade Creek upstream of the Old Mill Creek confluence and found five O. mykiss (50-75 mm FL) at an estimated 

density of 10 per 30 meters (Leidy 2002).

Assessment: Arroyo Corte Madera del Presidio and its tributaries historically supported both O. mykiss. Steelhead continue to 

enter the system and reproduce successfully.

Oncorhynchus mykiss abundance in the watershed appears to be limited by lack of water (Rich 1995). According to a restoration 

feasibility study for the Arroyo Corte Madera del Presidio drainage, Old Mill Creek provides the best remaining salmonid habitat 

in the watershed (Rich 1995).

Corte Madera Creek Watershed

The Corte Madera Creek watershed is 28 square miles and includes unincorporated portions of Marin County, the city of 

Larkspur, and the towns of Corte Madera, Ross, San Anselmo and Fairfax. Main stem Corte Madera Creek is formed by the 

union of San Anselmo and Sleepy Hollow Creeks, and flows generally southeast to enter the Bay at a point about nine miles north 

of the Golden Gate Bridge, just south of Point San Quentin.

Between 1967 and 1971, the Corps channelized a two-mile portion of Corte Madera Creek from Kentfield near its mouth to its 

inception at the confluence of San Anselmo and Sleepy Hollow Creeks. The concrete channel extends up the lower portions of 

all direct tributaries to Corte Madera Creek in this reach, including Ross, Sleepy Hollow, San Anselmo, and Fairfax creeks. The 

upper portion of this channel blocks migration to all spawning areas in the watershed, according to a 2002-2003 fish passage 

evaluation (Ross Taylor and Assoc. 2003).

Corte Madera Creek

In January 1960, DFG visually surveyed Corte Madera Creek from its mouth to the confluence with San Anselmo Creek. 

Although no fish were observed during the survey, residents estimated a run of 500-1,000 steelhead each year (Allen 1960a). 

According to DFG, the upper half of Corte Madera Creek is used by steelhead for both spawning and as a nursery area (Allen 

1960a). The DFG report also speculated that the proposed channelization would cause destruction of the nursery area and 

eliminate the steelhead run (Allen 1960a).

Unsigned reports of minnow-seine surveys dating from 1963 to 1974 indicate that sampling regularly recorded O. mykiss in Corte 

Madera Creek (DFG 1963-1974). Sampling results are listed in Table VII-1.
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Table VII-1. Corte Madera Creek minnow-seine sampling results, 1963-1974

Oncorhynchus mykiss

Date Location No. Size Range

November 1963 Lagunitas Rd. bridge 29 Fry

November 1963 ~2 mi. downstream from Lagunitas 

Rd. bridge

 0 --

May 1965 Ross/San Anselmo border and also

Ross near bridge at fire station

36 --

October 1967 Ross near bridge 3 81-98

October 1968 Ross upstream from bridge 8 47-80

October 1968 Ross downstream from bridge 27 44-133

October 1969 Ross near bridge at fire station 3 64-81

September 1971 Lagunitas Rd. bridge 72 38-83

September 1972 Ross near bridge at fire station 19 50-85

September 1973 Ross near bridge at fire station 10 --

October 1974 Ross near bridge at fire station 5 64-95

(Source: DFG 1963-1974)

In July 1968, DFG visually surveyed Corte Madera Creek from its mouth to the San Anselmo confluence. Oncorhynchus mykiss

were observed at a density of 75 per 30 meters of channel, ranging in size from 50-100 mm TL (Michaels and Thomson 1968). 

The survey reported that the limiting factors to the fishery included low stream flows and development. In addition, the survey 

recommended that the creek be managed as a steelhead spawning and nursery stream (Michaels and Thomson 1968).

In September 1969, DFG estimated population densities and sizes of O. mykiss, and evaluated habitat in Corte Madera Creek and 

its tributaries. Electro In February 1976, DFG visually surveyed Corte Madera Creek between the Lagunitas Road Bridge and 

the denil fishway to determine the extent of salmonid migration and spawning during a drought year. No salmonids were seen. 

However, the local game warden reported seeing several salmonids successfully negotiating the fishway below Lagunitas Road 

(Scoppettone 1976).

In September 1980, DFG visually surveyed Corte Madera Creek from the concrete-lined channel in Ross upstream to its 

confluence with San Anselmo Creek. Forty diversions were counted, all for private homes. A few YOY steelhead were observed, 

but their location was not specified (Eimoto and Walkup 1980). The survey report noted that the Corte Madera Creek drainage 

sustained a steelhead resource, although diversions along the creek were believed to have contributed to portions of the creek 

going dry that historically had perennial flow (Eimoto and Walkup 1980).

In September 1981, a pole-seine survey found two O. mykiss (58, 72 mm FL) downstream of Madrone Drive (Leidy 1984). Corte 

Madera Creek was surveyed by RWQCB in July 1992. Seine netting and visual observation identified 11 O. mykiss, all in deep 

shaded pools toward the lower end of the creek (Marshall et al. 1994).
166

In July 1993, Leidy electrofished Corte Madera Creek immediately upstream from the fish ladder opposite the post office in Ross. 

He caught one O. mykiss (110 mm FL). At the Sylvan Road crossing, opposite the Ross fire department, he caught four O. mykiss

(75-107 mm) and observed an additional ten in the same size range. Leidy estimated density at 25 per 30 meters of stream. In 

August, Leidy also electrofished Corte Madera Creek at Creek Park downstream from the pedestrian bridge and also immediately 

downstream of Winship Road. He found no O. mykiss at these sites (Leidy 2002).

In August 1997, Leidy again electrofished Corte Madera Creek at a site opposite the Ross postal office. A 30-meter reach yielded 

four O. mykiss (62-300 mm) at an estimated density of five per 30 meters (Leidy 2002).

Friends of Corte Madera Creek funded an electrofishing survey of Corte Madera Creek that occurred in August 1999. A total of 

15 O. mykiss (68-110 mm FL) were found at four of 11 sites totaling 164 meters of stream sampled (Rich 1999).

Larkspur Creek

Larkspur Creek is tributary to Cote Madera Creek, and drains the area between the towns of Kentfield and Greenbrae. It enters 

Corte Madera Creek from the north near the uppermost extent of that creek’s tidal portion.

In September 1981, Larkspur Creek was sampled by dip net at the terminus of Water Way off Madrone Avenue. Two O. mykiss

(51-121 mm FL) were collected (Leidy 1984).

Tamalpais Creek

Tamalpais Creek flows west to east along Woodland Road and joins Corte Madera Creek southeast of the College of Marin in 

Kentfield. Staff from DFG electrofished Tamalpais Creek in August 1969 upstream of the Evergreen Street Bridge. A total of 21 

O. mykiss (60-90 mm) were collected in a 30-meter reach (Jones 1969). The DFG report stated the area extending from Ridge 

View Road downstream to a Corps flood control project as containing nursery habitat, and estimated the steelhead population in 

the stream to be 552 based on a density of 21 per 30 meters (Jones 1969).

In July 1998, Leidy sampled a 30-meter reach of Tamalpais Creek centered on the lowermost Woodland Road crossing. He 

collected two O. mykiss (65, 87 mm FL) (Leidy 2002). Steelhead YOY were found in Tamalpais Creek during observations in 

2000 and in 2001 (Jones 2001). In April 2002, Leidy and Lewis observed a single juvenile O. mykiss (estimated 75-100 mm TL) 

off Woodland Road near Laurel Way (Leidy and Lewis 2002). 

Murphy Creek

Murphy Creek joins Corte Madera Creek northwest of the College of Marin in Kentfield. In April 2002, Leidy observed Murphy 

Creek at three locations near Hillside Avenue, at Bridge Road, and at Redwood Road. No O. mykiss were found (Leidy and 

Lewis 2002).
167

Ross Creek

Ross Creek is formed by the confluence of Phoenix and Bill Williams Creeks on the northeastern slopes of Mt. Tamalpais and 

enters Corte Madera Creek in the town of Ross. Phoenix Reservoir is an impassable barrier to upstream fish migration.

In January 1960, DFG visually surveyed Ross Creek from its confluence with Corte Madera Creek upstream to Phoenix 

Reservoir. No fish were observed at the time of the survey. However, residents reported that steelhead runs still occurred in some 

years (Allen 1960c). The survey report noted that prior to the construction of Phoenix Reservoir, Ross Creek was an important 

spawning and nursery tributary of Corte Madera Creek. Since construction of the reservoir, the stream dried out below the 

reservoir by mid-summer (Allen 1960c).

In August 1969, DFG electrofished a 30 meter reach near Ross Creek Park. A total of 109 O. mykiss (36-76 mm) were collected, 

yielding a density estimate of 113 per 30 meters (Jones 1969). The DFG report stated that a steelhead nursery area was available 

downstream from Phoenix Lake Dam extending to near the Glenwood Road Bridge, and that almost 3,000 juvenile steelhead 

were estimated to inhabit this reach (Jones 1969).

In July 1997, Leidy electrofished a 12 meter reach downstream from the Phoenix Park parking lot and found seven O. mykiss (67-

180 mm FL) (Leidy 2002). Friends of Corte Madera Creek funded an electrofishing survey of Ross Creek in November 1999. 

Seven O. mykiss (82-164 mm FL) were found at one of two sites totaling 19 meters of stream sampled (Rich 1999). Steelhead 

YOY were also observed in Ross Creek in 2000 (Jones 2001).

In April 2002, Leidy and Lewis observed Oncorhynchus spp. to be common (25-200 individuals) at the entrance to Natalie Coffin 

Greene Park (Leidy and Lewis 2002). Two size classes of juveniles were present (~10-15 mm TL and ~25-30 mm TL). The smaller 

size class was identified as O. mykiss.

Sleepy Hollow Creek

Sleepy Hollow Creek drains Sleepy Hollow along Butterfield Road and joins with San Anselmo Creek to form Corte Madera 

Creek in the town of San Anselmo. As noted in a 2002-2003 passage evaluation, a box culvert at Deer Hollow Road seriously 

impedes upstream migration (Ross Taylor and Assoc. 2003). Modifying the culvert and removing Raven Dam, located about one 

mile upstream, would increase access to suitable habitat upstream substantially (Ross Taylor and Assoc. 2003).

In January 1960, DFG visually surveyed Sleepy Hollow Creek from the mouth to the headwaters and found it to be an excellent 

steelhead spawning and nursery area (Allen 1960e). No fish were noted during the survey, and residents reported that no steelhead 

run occurred in the winter immediately prior to the survey (Allen 1960e). Typically, moderate use by steelhead for spawning and 

rearing was expected (Allen 1960e).

A September 1969 DFG memorandum reported 1.5 miles of juvenile O. mykiss rearing area in Sleepy Hollow Creek with a 

population density of 39 per 30 meters (Jones 1969). Juvenile steelhead were reported 100 yards immediately upstream from San 

Anselmo Creek and from Arroyo Road Bridge upstream to a point about 200 yards upstream from Butterfield Road bridge (Jones 

1969). Electrofishing caught 36 O. mykiss (31: 50-110 mm; 5: 115-190 mm) in a 30-meter reach. The stream was estimated to 

contain over 3,000 O. mykiss (Jones 1969).
168

In September 1981, a pole-seine survey was conducted upstream of the Butterfield Drive bridge. Seven O. mykiss (58-97 mm FL) 

were collected (Leidy 1984).

In October and November 1999, Friends of Corte Madera Creek funded an electrofishing survey of Sleepy Hollow Creek. A 

total of 23 O. mykiss (65-308 mm FL) were found at 11 of 39 sites that represented 378 meters of stream sampled (Rich 1999). 

Steelhead YOY also were observed in Sleepy Hollow Creek in 2000 (Jones 2001).

San Anselmo Creek

San Anselmo Creek is fed by several tributaries near the town of Fairfax. It joins Sleepy Hollow Creek in the town of San Anselmo 

and forms Corte Madera Creek. The Saunders Avenue crossing was noted as a migration impediment of high priority for 

modification in a 2002-2003 fish passage evaluation (Ross Taylor and Assoc. 2003). Both an existing fish ladder and the concrete 

channel reach immediately downstream appear to impede migration.

Oncorhynchus mykiss were collected from San Anselmo Creek in the town of San Anselmo in 1936. At this location, the stream 

was described as well shaded with no period of excessive dryness (Fry 1936).

Staff from DFG surveyed San Anselmo Creek in January 1960 between the mouth and 0.25 miles above the Cascade Creek 

confluence. No fish were observed, but the survey report noted local residents’ accounts that moderate steelhead runs occurred 

approximately every other year (Allen 1960d). At least 90 percent of the nursery area was reported to be located in the lower half 

of the stream (Allen 1960d).

San Anselmo Creek was electrofished by DFG in August 1969 at the Pastori Avenue Bridge. A total of 183 O. mykiss (175: 41-

110 mm; 8: 115-140 mm) were collected in a 30-meter reach, resulting in a population density estimate of 219 per 30 meters 

(Jones 1969). Steelhead juveniles were said to inhabit the two miles of the creek between the confluence with Fairfax Creek 

and the Winship Avenue Bridge (on Corte Madera Creek just upstream from its confluence with Ross Creek). The steelhead 

population in San Anselmo Creek was estimated to be more than 23,000 individuals (Jones 1969).

In July 1997, Leidy electrofished a ten-meter reach of San Anselmo Creek at a diversion dam near the end of Pacheco Avenue. He 

found four O. mykiss ranging in size from 73-140 mm FL (Leidy 2002).

Friends of Corte Madera Creek funded an electrofishing survey of San Anselmo Creek that occurred in September and October 

1999. A total of 97 O. mykiss (43-198 mm FL) were found at 12 of 24 sites that represented 216 meters of stream sampled. Sixtyseven of the O. mykiss were found in the headwaters at three sites (a combined 18.3 meters of sampled reach) above the confluence 

with Cascade Creek (Rich 1999). Five juvenile O. mykiss (75-90 mm FL) were observed in a shallow isolated pool just upstream 

from the bridge on Meadow Way in July 2003 (Harvey 2003).

Fairfax Creek

Fairfax Creek is a tributary to San Anselmo Creek that flows generally south to enter San Anselmo Creek in the town of Fairfax. It 

consists of about 2.5 miles of channel. A 2002-2003 fish passage assessment noted a 458-foot box culvert immediately upstream 
169

from the confluence with San Anselmo Creek at Bolinas Avenue. Although a serious impediment to fish passage, the culvert was 

listed as a lower priority modification project than others in the watershed due to high cost (Ross Taylor and Assoc. 2003).

In January 1960, DFG visually surveyed Fairfax Creek from the mouth to the headwaters. No fish were observed during the 

survey. The DFG report noted that the creek was a steelhead spawning and nursery tributary that had largely been destroyed by 

lowering of the water table through heavy groundwater pumping (Allen 1960b).

A 1969 DFG survey of steelhead in Corte Madera Creek and its tributaries concluded that the culvert at the mouth of Fairfax 

Creek was a passage barrier that precluded use by steelhead. No direct observations were made on the creek (Jones 1969).

In July 1997, Leidy electrofished a site immediately downstream of the Fairfax Park footbridge and found no O. mykiss (Leidy 

2002). In 2002, Marin County staff noted O. mykiss in Fairfax Creek believed to be resident (L. Lewis pers. comm.).

Cascade Creek (Corte Madera Creek watershed)

Cascade Creek is the uppermost headwater tributary to San Anselmo Creek. It drains the south face of White Hill and enters San 

Anselmo Creek from the north. Cascade Falls is a natural barrier that limits use by steelhead to the lower 0.4 mile of Cascade 

Creek.

In September 1969, DFG visually estimated the density of O. mykiss in Cascade Creek at 98 per 30 meters (Jones 1969). 

Steelhead were said to occur from the Cascade Creek falls downstream to the confluence with San Anselmo Creek (Jones 1969). 

The estimated number of O. mykiss in Cascade Creek was almost 1,300 (Jones 1969).

Friends of Corte Madera Creek funded an electrofishing survey of Cascade Creek that occurred in September 1999. A total of 26 

O. mykiss (39-152 mm FL) were found at the three sites sampled that represented a combined length of 19 meters (Rich 1999).

Assessment: The Corte Madera Creek watershed historically supported steelhead runs and continues to support O. mykiss

populations in its main stem and in various tributaries. The most important Corte Madera Creek tributary in terms of salmonid 

production appears to be San Anselmo Creek. In 1960, DFG determined that San Anselmo Creek contained much of the 

spawning and rearing habitat in the Corte Madera Creek watershed (Allen 1960d). Abundance estimates reported by DFG in 

1969 suggested that San Anselmo Creek supported about 75 percent of the juvenile O. mykiss believed to occur in the drainage 

(Jones 1969). Other tributaries with steelhead populations are Ross, Sleepy Hollow and Cascade Creeks.

Sampling within the last ten years consistently indicates multiple O. mykiss age classes in the Corte Madera Creek watershed, 

suggesting good natural propagation. This drainage appears to have considerable ecological importance to Marin County and to 

the San Francisco Estuary in general for its ability to contribute regionally to steelhead numbers. Efforts to improve fish passage 

in the Corte Madera Creek channel would allow in-migration to suitable spawning and rearing habitat in Corte Madera 

Creek tributaries.
170

Miller Creek Watershed

Miller Creek drains an area of 12 square miles with headwaters above the Gallinas Valley and proceeds through the town of 

Marinwood, entering San Pablo Bay at John F. McInnis County Park. 

Miller Creek

In September 1981, four sites on Miller Creek were electrofished as part of a fish distribution study. At a site upstream from the 

junction of Lucas Valley Road and Sequeira Road, more than 50 O. mykiss (38-86 mm FL) were caught. Seven O. mykiss (48-162 

mm FL) with silver coloration were found at Las Gallinas Avenue (Leidy 1984). 

In July 1993, Leidy electrofished Miller Creek and found O. mykiss at four out of five locations (Leidy 2002). He found one O. 

mykiss (179 mm FL) in a pool upstream from Las Gallinas Avenue. Downstream of the Miller Creek Road crossing in Marinwood 

Park he caught three O. mykiss (126, 129, 150 mm) in a 16-meter reach and estimated density at five per 30 meters of stream. 

Upstream of the lowest Lucas Valley Road crossing, a 30-meter reach yielded four O. mykiss (63-254 mm). Downstream from 

the Upper Lucas Valley Road crossing, a 46-meter reach produced 13 O. mykiss (69-157 mm). Leidy found no O. mykiss when 

he electrofished immediately upstream from Hwy. 101 (Leidy 2002). At least four O. mykiss age classes were identified in Miller 

Creek.

In June 1997, Leidy again electrofished Miller Creek upstream from Highway 101. He found two O. mykiss (170, 225 mm 

FL), and estimated their population density at five per 30 meters (Leidy 2002). Leidy also caught 15 O. mykiss (50-80 mm) 

downstream from Mt. Shasta Drive, where he estimated density at 20 per 30 meters of stream. In October 2001, NMFS 

electrofished Miller Creek downstream of the Mt. Lassen Drive Bridge. A total of 87 O. mykiss were recorded with a size range of 

55-201 mm FL (Fish et al. 2001).

Assessment: The Miller Creek drainage suffers from a shortage of survey information, although O. mykiss clearly inhabited the 

watershed historically and populations have been found in recent sampling. Multiple age classes occur in Miller Creek, and O. 

mykiss production from the system is likely to constitute a relatively small but important part of regional production. The habitat 

function of this creek system should be protected to ensure continued contribution to the regional fishery. 

Pacheco Creek Watershed

Pacheco Creek originates on the eastern end of Big Rock Ridge and flows east to Highway 101, where it turns north, entering 

Novato Creek at Pacheco Pond in the town of Ignacio. The Pacheco Creek watershed is about 2.1 square miles.

Pacheco Creek

In September 1981, Miller Creek was electrofished as part of a fish distribution study at Alameda del Prado immediately upstream 

from Highway 101. No O. mykiss were found (Leidy 1984). According to Marin County PWA staff, salmonids presently do not 

use Pacheco Creek (L. Lewis pers. comm.).
171

Assessment: Pacheco Creek is not is not used presently by salmonids.

Arroyo San Jose Watershed

Arroyo San Jose is formed by two streams draining the northeastern slopes of Big Rock Ridge, south of the town of Navato. 

The arroyo’s watershed is about 5.7 square miles. It enters a lagoon known as Bel Marin Keys in the town of Ignacio, which is 

connected to San Pablo Bay by the historic Novato Creek channel and a series of canals within Hamilton Airforce Base. A 2002-

2003 fish passage evaluation noted two areas of concrete flood control channel and weirs, both near Ignacio Boulevard, as creating 

“impassable condition for all species and life stages” (Ross Taylor and Assoc. 2003).

Arroyo San Jose

In September 1981, two sites on Arroyo San Jose were electrofished as part of a fish distribution survey. Three O. mykiss (61, 149, 

161 mm FL) were found at Enfrente Boulevard, while no fish of any kind were found at Indian Way. (Leidy 1984). 

In June 1997, Leidy electrofished Arroyo San Jose opposite the Novato Business Park, at the end of Digital Drive. No O. mykiss

were found. However, adult steelhead were observed in Arroyo San Jose in 2000 and 2001 (Jones 2001).

Assessment: This relatively small watershed has been found to support multiple age classes of O. mykiss in the past and recent 

observations of adult spawners suggest current use, although successful hatching and rearing of juveniles has not been verified. 

Further investigation is recommended to inform management of the drainage as salmonid spawning and rearing habitat. 

Novato Creek Watershed

This is the northernmost Marin County watershed as well as the largest drainage in the county covering 44 square miles. Novato 

Creek drains into a lagoon known as Bel Marin Keys and then flows east to enter the Estuary immediately south of the Highway 

37 bridge near Black Point.

Novato Creek

As part of a fish distribution study, Novato Creek was sampled by pole seine and dip net during September, 1981. No O. mykiss

were found at the three locations sampled between 7th Street in downtown Novato and the Novato Reservoir spillway 

(Leidy 1984).

Leidy electrofished seven sites on Novato Creek in June 1997. He found one O. mykiss (195 mm FL) in a 15-meter reach 

downstream from Diablo Avenue (Leidy 2002). In a ten meter reach along Hicks Valley Road approximately one mile below 

Stafford Lake Dam, he caught two O. mykiss (90, 130 mm). Immediately upstream he found four O. mykiss (55-65 mm) in a 30-

meter reach. No O. mykiss were found when electrofishing at a 15 meter reach at the upper end of tidal influence, at a 20 meter 

reach immediately below the water treatment plant discharge at Stafford Lake Dam, or at a 12 meter reach above Stafford Lake 

(Leidy 2002).
172

In July 1997, Leidy electrofished a 30 meter reach at Hicks Valley Road within Miwok Park and caught 12 O. mykiss (52-152 

mm) (Leidy 2002). Adult steelhead were observed in Novato Creek in 2000 and 2001 (Jones 2001). In April 2002, Leidy and 

Lewis observed abundant (>200 individuals) O. mykiss juveniles (25-35 mm TL) in a reach extending from the confluence with 

Bowman Canyon Creek downstream 150 meters (Leidy and Lewis 2002).

Arroyo Avichi

Arroyo Avichi flows northeast off the north slope of Big Rock Ridge and covers 1.8 square miles. Arroyo Avichi was sampled by 

dipnet at South Novato Boulevard in September 1981 as part of a fish distribution survey. No fish of any kind were found 

(Leidy 1984). 

Warner Creek

Warner Creek is formed by the confluence of Vineyard Creek and Wilson Creek in the town of Novato. It flows east 

approximately 1.5 miles parallel to Novato Creek before the two creeks merge. Warner Creek was sampled by dip net and pole 

seine at McClay Road and at Diablo Road as part of a September 1981 fish distribution survey. No O. mykiss were encountered at 

either location (Leidy 1984).

Vineyard Creek

Vineyard Creek drains an area of 1.7 square miles. The creek flows northeast off the northwestern end of Big Rock Ridge, joining 

with Wilson Creek to form Warner Creek in the city of Novato. 

In April 2002, Leidy and Lewis observed abundant (>200 individuals) O. mykiss juveniles (20-30 mm TL) in a reach extending 

100 meters upstream from Mill Road (Leidy and Lewis 2002). Leidy also observed O. mykiss juveniles (25-30 mm TL) to be 

common (25-200 individuals) downstream from the concrete apron at the intersection of Santa Maria Drive and Brooke Drive. 

No fish were observed upstream of this concrete apron/invert, suggesting that it posed a complete barrier to upstream movement 

of fish.

Bowman Canyon Creek

Bowman Canyon Creek flows south out of Bowman Canyon, joining Novato Creek west of the city of Novato. In September 

1981, Bowman Canyon Creek was sampled upstream of Hicks Valley Road by dip-net as part of a fish distribution survey. Three 

O. mykiss (61, 82, 86 mm FL) were collected (Leidy 1984). Steelhead YOY were observed in Bownman Canyon Creek in 1998 

(Jones 2001). In April 2002, Leidy and Lewis observed O. mykiss juveniles (20-30 mm TL) to be common (25-200 individuals) 

from Novato Boulevard downstream to the confluence with Novato Creek (Leidy and Lewis 2002).

Assessment: The Novato Creek watershed has not been sampled adequately, although it certainly supported, and continues to 

support, anadromous O. mykiss populations. Multiple O. mykiss age classes have been found during recent sampling, and the 

drainage appears to offer spawning and rearing habitat despite being the driest of the Marin County drainages.
173

Watershed Stream/ Tributary

Yrs. Surveyed/ Quant. Data

Max. Period of Record

Data

Type

Life Hist. Stage/No. Yrs. Data

Anad.Life-CyclePossible

O. mykiss Evidence 

of Pop. Decline

Current Pop.Status

References(Pers. Comm.) Hist. Current

Coyote Creek Coyote 1/0 0 1981 0, 1, 3 - N PB NP Y 0 15, 16 (1)

Arroyo Corte Madera del Presidio 

Arroyo Corte Madera del Presidio 

6/6 1946- 97 1, 2, 3 J/6; R/2 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 6-8, 15, 16, 20, 22, 24

Willow Reed 1/0 1870s- 2004 1 J/1 Y DF DF - 1,2,3 21 (2)

Warner 3/1 1963 2004 1, 3 J/2 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 6, 17 (2)

Old Mill 5/4 1946- 97 1, 2, 3 J/5; R/2 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 6, 14-16, 20, 22, 25Cascade 5/1 1963- 97 1, 2, 3 J/2 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 6, 15, 16, 20

Corte Madera Creek Corte Madera 17/10 1960- 99 0, 1, 2, 3 J/11; R/1 N DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 1, 8, 9, 13, 15, 17-19, 20, 21, 23

Larkspur 1/1 1981 3 J/1 UNK DF UNK - 0 15

Tamalpais 3/2 1969- 2002 1, 2 J/3 N DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 13, 14, 17

Murphy 1/0 0 2002 1 - N UNK UNK - 17

Ross 6/3 1960- 2002 0, 1, 2 J/4; R/1 N DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 3, 13, 14, 16, 17, 21

Sleepy Hollow 4/3 1960- 99 0, 2, 3 J/3; R/2 N DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 5, 13-15, 16, 21

Table VII-2. Distribution status of O. mykiss in San Francisco Estuary streams of Marin County, Californiaa
174

Watershed Stream/ Tributary

Yrs. Surveyed/ Quant. Data

Max. Period of Record

Data

Type

Life Hist. Stage/No. Yrs. Data

Anad.Life-CyclePossible

O. mykiss Evidence 

of Pop. Decline

Current Pop.Status

References(Pers. Comm.) Hist. Current

San Anselmo 5/4 1936- 2003 1, 2 J/4; R/1 N DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 4, 11-13, 16, 21Fairfax 3/0 1960 2002 1 J/1 N DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 2, 13, 17 (2)Cascade 2/2 1969- 99 1, 2 J/2 N DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 4, 14, 21

Miller Creek Miller 4/4 1981- 2001 2 J/4; S/1; R/3 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3, 10, 15, 16Pacheco Creek Pacheco 1/0 0 1981 2 - N PS NP - 0 15(1)

Arroyo San Jose 

Arroyo San Jose 3/2 1981- 2001 2 J/1 Y DF DF Y 1 14, 15

Novato Creek Novato 3/1 1997- 2002 2 J/2 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 14-17

Arroyo Avichi 1/0 0 1981 3 - UNK UNK UNK - 0 15

Warner 1/0 0 1981 3 - UNK UNK UNK - 0 15Vineyard 1/0 2002 1 J/1 Y DF DF - 1, 2, 3 17

Bowman Canyon 2/1 1981- 2002 1, 2 J/2 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 14, 15, 17

a Table headings and codes are defined in the Methods section of this report.
175

1. Allen, J. T., CDFG. 1960a. Stream Survey Corte Madera Creek. Report dated January 18.

2. Allen, J. T., CDFG. 1960b. Stream Survey Fairfax Creek. Report dated January 15.

3. Allen, J. T., CDFG. 1960c. Stream Survey Ross Creek. Report dated January 15.

4. Allen, J. T., CDFG. 1960d. Stream Survey San Anselmo Creek. Report dated January 15.

5. Allen, J. T., CDFG. 1960e. Stream Survey Sleepy Hollow Creek. Report dated January 15.

6. Brackett, G. K., CDFG. 1963. Stream Survey Arroyo Corte Madera del Presidio Creek. Report dated July 16.

7. Culley, C., and B. Fox, CDFG. 1965. Stream Survey Arroyo Corte Madera del Presidio Creek. Report dated August 10.

8. DFG? 1963-1974. Corte Madera Creek Fish Sampling Results, 1963-1974.

9. Eimoto, D., and P. Walkup, CDFG. 1980. Stream Survey Corte Madera Creek/San Anselmo Creek. Report dated 

September 10.

10. Fish, H., S. Gough, C. Bergeron, and R. A. Leidy, NOAA-NMFS. 2001. Steelhead Tissue Collection Data Form. 

Report dated October 31.

11. Fry, D. H., Jr. 1936. Life history of Hesperoleucus venustus (Snyder). California Fish and Game 22(2): 65-98.

12. Harvey, B. N., CEMAR. 2003. Personal observations of steelhead, 1996-2003.

13. Jones, W. E., CDFG. 1969. Memo to Region 3 Water Projects Files. Re: Corte Madera Creek, Marin County - 

Steelhead population survey. Dated November 25.

14. Jones, W. E., NMFS. 2001. Draft NMFS California anadromous fish distributions, California coastal Salmon and 

Steelhead current stream habitat distribution table.

15. Leidy, R. A. 1984. Distribution and Ecology of Stream Fishes in the San Francisco Bay Drainage (and associated 

unpublished data, 1981-1984). Hilgardia 52(8).

16. Leidy, R. A., USEPA. 2002. Unpublished stream survey data 1992-2002.

17. Leidy, R. A., and L. Lewis. 2002. Unpublished Marin County stream surveys. USEPA, Marin County DPW.

18. Marshall, J., C. Denisoff, and D. Hopkins, RWQCB, San Francisco Bay Region. 1994. Corte Madera watershed 

resource evaluation and information report. Report dated January.

19. Michaels, J., and B. Thomson, CDFG. 1968. Stream Survey Corte Madera Creek. Report dated July 25.

20. Rich, A. A. 1995. Feasibility study to rehabilitate the fishery resource of the Arroyo Corte Madera del Presidio 

watershed, Mill Valley, California. A.A. Rich and Associates, San Anselmo, CA.

21. Rich, A. A., Friends of Corte Madera Creek Watershed. 1999. Electrofishing data sheets August-October 1999 for Corte 

Madera Creek watershed resource report.

22. Ross Taylor and Assoc. 2003. Marin County stream crossing inventory and fish passage evaluation-final report. County 

of Marin - Department of Public Works, McKinleyville, CA.

23. Scoppettone, G., CDFG. 1976. Memo to Fishery Management Region 3. Re: The status of steelhead and silver salmon 

spawning success in Redwood, Pine Gulch, Lagunitas, and Core Madera Creeks, Marin County; Mid-February, 1976. 

Dated March 25.

24. Shapovalov, L., CDFG. 1946a. Stream Survey Arroyo Corte Madera del Presidio Creek. Report dated January 29.

25. Shapovalov, L., CDFG. 1946b. Stream Survey Old Mill Creek. Report dated January 29.

References
176

1. Lewis, L., telephone conversation with G. Becker, CEMAR, September 12, 2003, 2003, regarding salmonid population 

and habitat observations for Marin County.

2. Lewis, L., interview with G. Becker, CEMAR, May 25, 2005, regarding O. mykiss distribution in Marin County streams.

Personal Communications
177

MARIN COUNTY MAPS

Historical status of Oncorhynchus mykiss in streams of Marin County, Caliornia. 

Current status of Oncorhynchus mykiss in streams of Marin County, Caliornia. 
178
183

SONOMA COUNTY

Petaluma River Watershed

The Petaluma River watershed lies within portions of Marin and Sonoma Counties. The river flows in a northwesterly to 

southeasterly direction into San Pablo Bay.

Petaluma River

In a 1962 report, Skinner indicated that the Petaluma River was an historical migration route and habitat for steelhead (Skinner 

1962). At that time, the creek was said to be “lightly used” as steelhead habitat (Skinner 1962).

In July 1968, DFG surveyed portions of the Petaluma River accessible by automobile from the upstream limit of tidal influence to 

the headwaters. No O. mykiss were observed (Thomson and Michaels 1968d).

Leidy electrofished upstream from the Corona Road crossing in July 1993. No salmonids were found (Leidy 2002).

San Antonio Creek

San Antonio Creek is a tributary of Petaluma River and drains an area of approximately 12 square miles. The channel is the 

border between Sonoma and Marin Counties.

In a 1962 report, Skinner indicated that San Antonio Creek was an historical migration route for steelhead (Skinner 1962). 

In July 1968, DFG visually surveyed San Antonio Creek from the San Antonio Slough upstream to Chileno Valley Road. Fishery 

value was deemed poor due to intermittent summer flows, scarce spawning gravel and suspected dairy effluent. No O. mykiss were 

observed (Michaels and Thomson 1968).

In September 1981, Leidy electrofished three sites on San Antonio Creek between Highway 101 and Chileno Valley Road. No O. 

mykiss were found (Leidy 1984).

Adobe Creek (Casa Grande Creek)

Adobe Creek originates on the southwest face of Sonoma Mountain, flowing south and west to its confluence with the Petaluma 

River. A 1968 DFG visual survey of Adobe Creek found juvenile O. mykiss (50-150 mm) at an estimated density of 150 per 

30 meters of stream. This survey also found two ten-foot diversion dams that were complete barriers to fish migration. Several 

impoundments were noted on tributary streams as well (Thomson and Michaels 1968a).

In 1987, students of Casa Grande High School rescued approximately 2,000 steelhead planted earlier that year from isolated pools 

in Adobe Creek (Furrer 2003). 
184

Juvenile O. mykiss were rescued from Adobe Creek in June 1993 (Emig 1993). Beginning in 1993, the students of Casa Grande 

High School operated a hatchery that supplemented naturally occurring O. mykiss populations with steelhead derived from 

Feather River stocks (Furrer 2003).

In November 1997, Leidy electrofished Adobe Creek approximately 100 meters upstream from the footbridge in Rancho Adobe 

State Park and caught 17 O. mykiss (74-198 mm FL) (Leidy 2002).

Lynch Creek

Lynch Creek drains the west face of Sonoma Mountain, joining the Petaluma River in the city of Petaluma. In July 1968, DFG 

visually surveyed Lynch Creek by car with frequent stops for closer inspection. Although no fish were seen, the survey report cites 

residents’ reports of a small run of steelhead in the stream. The surveyors recommended that the stream be managed as a steelhead 

spawning and nursery area (Thomson and Michaels 1968c).

Staff from DFG reports a sighting of an adult O. mykiss in Lynch Creek in summer 1998 (W. Cox pers. comm.). In May 2000 

DFG noted 3 YOY during an informal survey of the creek (W. Cox pers. comm.). 

Washington Creek

Washington Creek originates in the lower foothills north of the city of Petaluma and runs a short distance to the Petaluma River. 

In July 1968, DFG visually surveyed Washington Creek from the mouth up to a four-foot fall located approximately 200 feet 

upstream from Adobe Road. No fish were observed, and the channel was largely dry (Michaels and Thomson 1969). Staff from 

DFG reports that Washington Creek does not support an O. mykiss population currently (W. Cox pers. comm.). 

Willow Brook 

In July 1968, DFG visually surveyed Willow Brook Creek from the mouth to the headwaters. The channel was primarily dry 

with warm, intermittent pools that appeared to be drying completely. No O. mykiss were observed. Because of poor summer 

conditions, DFG considered Willow Brook to have no fishery value (Thomson and Michaels 1968e). Staff from DFG reports that 

Willow Brook may support an O. mykiss population in some years (W. Cox pers. comm.). 

Lichau Creek

Lichau Creek flows west out of the Sonoma Mountains, then south past the town of Penngrove. In July 1968, DFG visually 

surveyed Lichau Creek from the mouth to the headwaters. Approximately ten juvenile O. mykiss (50-180 mm) were found in 

two small headwater pools (Thomson and Michaels 1968b). Although no barriers were observed in the main channel, dams were 

observed in some tributary streams. Staff from DFG reports that Lichau Creek may support an O. mykiss population in some 

years (W. Cox pers. comm.). 

Assessment: The Petaluma River watershed historically supported steelhead runs, although the habitat available in the system 

is of substantially lesser importance than the Sonoma Creek system to the east. The river has been referred to by DFG staff as 
185

“Petaluma Dead-End Slough” for the low habitat value of tributaries to the watershed upstream of the tidal portion (W. Cox pers. 

comm.). 

Sonoma Creek Watershed

The Sonoma Creek watershed encompasses 170 square miles including the relatively narrow north-south trending Sonoma Valley. 

The creek enters the San Francisco Estuary at the northernmost part of San Pablo Bay. Major tributaries to the upper reaches of 

the creek include Calabazas, Stuart, Graham, Asbury and Bear Creeks.

Sonoma Creek

Staff from DFG conducted a visual stream survey of Sonoma Creek in August 1946 from the mouth to a natural falls in the 

headwaters, a distance of about 52 miles. Staff found both sea-run steelhead and resident O. mykiss in the system, noting natural 

propagation of O. mykiss as evidenced by the common presence of juvenile fish (65-100 mm TL) (Shapovalov and Bruer 1946). 

According to the survey report, steelhead ascend Sonoma Creek to at least one mile upstream of “U station” which is located 

about 0.6 miles upstream of Golden Bear Lodge.

According to a DFG summary report, 3,580 fingerling steelhead were rescued from Sonoma Creek in 1954 (Pintler 1956). 

Rescued fish apparently were moved to other areas within the Sonoma Creek watershed that had wetted stream channel 

throughout the dry season.

A visual stream survey of Sonoma Creek was conducted by DFG in February 1957. The survey report declared that the creek is 

utilized by steelhead as a spawning and nursery grounds and noted very good spawning areas throughout the Adobe Canyon and 

main branches down to Boyes Hot Springs and further downstream (Elwell 1957). Both flashboard dams and water diversions 

were said to occur along the length of the entire stream, but no permanent barriers. The surveyors said steelhead fingerlings (50-

75 mm TL) were quite common along the entire stream length and recommended management as a steelhead spawning and 

nursery ground (Elwell 1957).

Sonoma Creek rescue efforts by DFG in 1958 produced 910 fingerling steelhead in 1958 (Allen 1958). During 1959, DFG 

rescued 2,507 fingerling steelhead from Sonoma Creek (Allen 1962). According to a DFG summary report, 44,544 fingerling 

steelhead were rescued from Sonoma Creek in 1961 (Rowell 1961). (As this figure represents an order-of-magnitude increase from 

other rescue totals, we consider it less reliable than previously reported numbers.) Rescued fish apparently were moved to other 

areas within the Sonoma Creek watershed that had wetted stream channel throughout the dry season.

In a 1962 report, Skinner indicated that Sonoma Creek was an historical migration route and habitat for steelhead (Skinner 

1962). At that time, the creek was said to be “lightly used” as steelhead habitat (Skinner 1962).

Staff from DFG responded to a landowner inquiry regarding a fish kill at the confluence of Sonoma Creek and Calabazas Creek in 

May 1965. The subsequent report noted a count of 271 dead steelhead juveniles (64-196 mm TL) (Kastner 1965). A 1965 DFG 

letter report stated that Sonoma Creek is inaccessible to steelhead about 1.5 miles upstream of the confluence with Bear Creek 

due to a 12+ meter fall, and described resident O. mykiss existing upstream of the falls (Meyer 1965). In two 1965 letters, DFG 
186

staff state that Sonoma Creek and all of its tributaries support a “fair” run of steelhead trout, estimated at 500 individuals or more 

(Greenwald 1965). The letters also cite a limited summer fishery for young steelhead throughout the upper reaches of the stream.

A 1966 DFG report summarized steelhead resources in the Sonoma Creek watershed, citing the upper reaches of the watershed 

as having a substantial summer trout fishery for juvenile steelhead and resident trout (Rockwood 1966). The report describes 

good to excellent spawning gravels and some adequate nursery areas in the drainage. According to the report, the prime spawning 

areas for steelhead are upstream from Boyes Hot Springs, while the prime nursery areas are upstream from Glen Ellen (Rockwood 

1966). The report estimated the size of the steelhead run in Sonoma Creek to be about 500 individuals annually with great 

variation (Rockwood 1966).

Surveys performed in July 1966 by DFG staff indicated that mainstem Sonoma Creek contained about 15 miles of cold water 

stream accessible to steelhead trout upstream of Glen Ellen and downstream of the natural falls (Rockwood 1966). Oncorhynchus 

mykiss densities within this reach were estimated to be 15-60 per 30 meters. The survey report recommends establishing minimum 

flows in Sonoma Creek of five cubic feet per second to enhance O. mykiss habitat.

In 1977, DFG published a natural resources assessment of the Napa Marsh in which they estimated an annual steelhead run of 

approximately 1,200 adult fish in Sonoma Creek (Michaels 1977). Mainstem Sonoma Creek was sampled for fish with seines and 

dip nets at two locations in September 1981. Oncorhynchus mykiss were collected at a site immediately downstream of the junction 

of Warm Springs Road and Highway 12 (17: 71-143 mm FL) and at a location just downstream of the entrance to Sugerloaf 

Ridge State Park (17: 40-85 mm FL) (Leidy 1984).

Leidy sampled Sonoma Creek at numerous locations in June, July and August of 1993. Oncorhynchus mykiss collection results 

during this effort are in Table VIII-1 below. 
187

Table VIII-1. Sampling results, Sonoma Creek, June-August 1993

Oncorhynchus mykiss

Location No. Size Range

(mm)

Estimate Density

(per 30 m)

Near Madrone Rd. bridge 2 80-107 5

Near Agua Caliente Rd. bridge 3 115-130 5

Stable in Sugarloaf Ridge State Park 15 90-235 25

Upstream of falls, Sugarloaf State Park 12 51-230 --

Downstream of falls, Sugarloaf State Park 7 69-237 10

Hwy. 12 ~ 0.5 mi. downstream Watmaugh Rd. 

bridge

0 -- --

Riverfront Rd. at Walnut Ave. 1 180 --

Mouth of Second Napa Slough 0 -- --

Boyes Rd. crossing 1 70 5

Leveroni Blvd, bridge 2 92, 132 5

Sonoma St. Hospital 17 -- 30

Hwy. 126 crossing 2 200, 226 5

(Source: Leidy 2002)

Leidy’s sampling produced records of both anadromous and resident O. mykiss occurring in mainstem Sonoma Creek with 

multiple age classes represented. The Sugarloaf Ridge State Park was found to contain excellent rearing habitat and fish in good 

condition. The Sonoma State Hospital site also had excellent spawning and rearing habitat for O. mykiss (Leidy 2002).

The Southern Sonoma County Resource Conservation District published the Sonoma Creek Habitat Inventory in December 

1996. The report included the results of electofishing surveys performed in 1995 and 1996 on upper Sonoma Creek. The fish 

sampling found steelhead at five sites on mainstem Sonoma Creek as presented in Table VIII-2.
188

Table VIII-2. Electrofishing results, Sonoma Creek, 1995-96

Oncorhynchus mykiss

Location Age Class

(years)

No.

Arnold Dr. bridge, Glen Ellen -- 6

Graham Creek confluence YOY

1+

4

7

1 mi. upstream Warm Springs/Bennet Valley Rds. -- 10

0.25 mi. upstream Lawndale Ave. bridge YOY

1+

2+

22

2

1

Bear Creek confluence YOY

1+

2+

71

4

1

(Source: SSCRCD 1996)

A summary statement issued with the report of electrofishing results characterized Sonoma Creek at the entrance to Sugerloaf 

Ridge State Park as being in the “trout zone” (after Moyle 1976), with conditions transitioning to warmer water and lower 

gradient downstream (SSCRCD 1996). The report further recommended management of Sonoma Creek as an anadromous, 

natural production stream.

Electrofishing was performed in October 2002 in various Sonoma Creek reaches. Data from sampling in four reaches indicate that 

multiple O. mykiss age classes are present in the creek (52-152 mm FL) (SEC 2002).

Fowler Creek

Fowler Creek is formed by the joining of Carriger and Felder Creeks. From this confluence, the creek runs in a southeasterly 

direction about two miles to Sonoma Creek. Some investigators appear to have referred to Carriger Creek as Fowler Creek and to 

Fowler Creek as Carriger Creek.

During the summer of 1986 approximately 275 O. mykiss fry and 5 1+ and 2+ fish were transferred by citizens from a desiccating 

pool on lower Fowler Creek off Fowler Creek Road to an unknown location on Fowler Creek near the lowermost crossing of 

Grover Street in the George Ranch area (Friends of Sonoma Creek 1987).

Rodgers Creek

The headwaters of Rodgers Creek begin on the southwest slopes of the Sonoma Mountains and drain in a southeasterly direction 

for a distance of 6.5 miles before joining Fowler Creek approximately 0.75 miles its confluence with Sonoma Creek. Together, 

Rodgers and Fowler Creeks form the longest tributary to Sonoma Creek. The drainage basin is approximately 6.2 square miles.
189

In 1958, DFG visually surveyed Rodgers Creek at the intersection of Arnold Road and Stage Gulch Road. No salmonids were 

observed (CDFG 1958). A visual stream survey of several reaches of Rodgers Creek in 1965 noted large numbers of juvenile O. 

mykiss present upstream of the “dairy” upstream from the Temelec, Inc. development (Meyer 1965). In a 1965 letter, the DFG 

noted that Rodgers Creek contained a small population of YOY steelhead limited by low summer flows (Greenwald 1965).

A visual stream survey of the Rodgers Creek watershed conducted by DFG in 1966 estimated YOY O. mykiss density at 10-20 fish 

per 30 meters in a reach downstream of a flashboard dam located approximately three miles upstream from the Sonoma Creek 

confluence (Rockwood 1966). Apparently the flashboard dam acted as an almost complete barrier to the upstream movement of 

fish. In the area 1-2.5 miles upstream from the Fowler Creek confluence, no salmonids were observed. Upstream of the flashboard 

dam, O. mykiss (100-250 mm) density was estimated at 1-2 fish per pool. Some “fair” spawning habitat was identified, while 

nursery habitat was “adequate” upstream of the lowermost 3.5 miles of stream. Overall, the survey noted that removal of the flash 

board dam could provide good spawning and nursery areas to anadromous fish (Rockwood 1966).

A 1966 DFG memorandum rated Rodgers Creek as a “fair” steelhead stream, with “good” to “excellent” nursery habitat from a 

point 1.6 miles upstream from the mouth to the headwaters (Evans 1966). The memorandum states that at a point approximately 

1.9 miles upstream from where Rodgers Creek joins Fowler Creek, there is “excellent” nursery habitat with O. mykiss YOY 

estimated at a density of 10-20 per 30 meters (Evans 1966).

In 1975, DFG conducted a visual stream survey along a four-mile reach of Rodgers Creek from approximately 2.2 miles 

downstream from the headwaters to just upstream of the confluence with Fowler Creek. The upstream reach contained O. mykiss

(51-178 mm TL) at an estimated density of 25-50 per 30 meters (Coleman and Van Zandt 1975). Fifty percent of this reach was 

said to be suitable for spawning O. mykiss, while the lower portion of the creek contained very little spawning habitat (Coleman 

and Van Zandt 1975). The survey report recommended management as a spawning and nursery area for steelhead.

As part of a fish distribution survey, a 20-meter reach of Rodgers Creek at the West Watmaugh Road crossing was sampled 

in September 1981. No fish were recorded (Leidy 1984). The stream channel was noted as extensively trampled by cattle and 

upstream diversions appeared to have caused dewatering of portions of the stream. Staff from the Sonoma Ecology Center noted 

juvenile O. mykiss in Rodgers Creek in spring 2004 (W. Pier pers. comm.).

Felder Creek

Felder Creek and Carriger Creek join to form Fowler Creek. Interviews with local landowners have established the historical use 

of Felder Creek by O. mykiss (W. Pier pers. comm.).

As part of a fish distribution survey, a 20-meter reach of Felder Creek approximately 0.2 miles downstream from the paved end of 

Felder Road was sampled in September 1981. No salmonids were recorded (Leidy 1984). Staff from the Sonoma Ecology Center 

noted juvenile O. mykiss in Felder Creek in spring 2004 (W. Pier pers. comm.).

Carriger Creek

The headwaters of Carriger Creek consist of three intermittent streams draining the Sonoma Mountains. The creek flows in a 

southeasterly direction for a distance of eight miles before joining Felder Creek. The junction of Carriger and Felder Creeks forms 
190

Fowler Creek, which runs another two miles to its confluence with Sonoma Creek. The drainage basin is approximately 10.5 

square miles.

In a 1953 DFG fish rescue, 4,679 fingerling steelhead were moved from Carriger Creek (Pintler 1954). According to a DFG 

summary report, 7,060 fingerling steelhead were rescued from Carriger Creek in 1954 (Pintler 1956). Rescued fish apparently 

were moved to other areas within the Sonoma Creek watershed that had wetted stream channel throughout the dry season. Fish 

rescues conducted by DFG in1958 included 1,131 juvenile steelhead (Allen 1958). In 1961, 4,641 fingerlings were rescued 

(Rowell 1961).

In a 1962 report, Skinner indicated that Carriger Creek was an historical migration route and habitat for steelhead (Skinner 

1962). At that time, the creek was said to be “lightly used” as steelhead habitat (Skinner 1962).

A visual stream survey of several reaches of Carriger Creek in 1965 noted juvenile O. mykiss under the first downstream Grove 

Street crossing, as well an abundant juvenile population within a small, unnamed tributary entering Carriger Creek from a 

southwesterly direction just downstream of the bridge (Meyer 1965). In a 1965 letter, DFG called YOY steelhead in the creek 

“abundant” (Greenwald 1965).

A visual stream survey of the Carriger Creek watershed conducted by DFG in July 1966 estimated YOY O. mykiss at a density of 

20-40 per 30 meters within a reach approximately 5.5-8.5 miles upstream from Sonoma Creek (Rockwood 1966). Unpublished 

files from DFG indicate that a barrier was constructed on Carriger Creek in the spring of 1966 that prevented fish migration 

upstream. Staff from DFG recommended addition of a fishway to allow passage. During a site visit in April 1966, DFG noted 

numerous young steelhead upstream of and downstream of the dam located just upstream of the lowermost Grove Street crossing 

(Jones 1966). Two dead O. mykiss estimated at 150-200 mm TL had been reported between rocks on the lower side of the dam.

Carriger Creek was visually surveyed by DFG from its headwaters to the confluence with Felder Creek in March 1976. 

Oncorhynchus mykiss (25-127 mm TL) were observed in the headwaters section at a density of 10-15 fish per 30 meters, and 

some spawning and nursery habitat were rated “excellent” (Steitz and Johnson 1976). The middle section also had “excellent” 

spawning and rearing habitat, with O. mykiss (51-178 mm TL) at 15-40 fish per 30 meters (Steitz and Johnson 1976). A dead 

adult steelhead (559 mm FL) was found at the downstream terminus of the channel culvert at the Grover Road crossing (Steitz 

and Johnson 1976). At the confluence of Felder Creek, 5-15 O. mykiss (51-203 mm) were seen per 30 meters, and spawning and 

nursery habitat were “limited” (Steitz and Johnson 1976). The Carriger Creek survey report recommended management as a 

steelhead spawning and nursery area (Steitz and Johnson 1976).

A fish distribution survey was conducted in September 1981 along a 10-meter reach of Carriger Creek, approximately 0.5 miles 

south from the Canyon Road crossing. Three O. mykiss (58-149 mm FL) were collected, and O. mykiss juvenile density was 

estimated at 10 per 30 meters (Leidy 1984).

Leidy sampled a 30-meter reach of Carriger Creek in December 1997 upstream from the O’Brien Road Bridge. He collected 

four steelhead between 46-238 mm FL, all in excellent condition (Leidy 2002). Leidy noted that Carriger Creek at this location 

contained good spawning and excellent rearing habitat for steelhead. A minimum of three steelhead year classes were seen during 

the sampling event (Leidy 2002).
191

Dowdall Creek

Dowdall Creek is an intermittent stream that flows in a southeasterly direction from the Sonoma Mountains for a distance 

approximately four miles to where it joins Sonoma Creek. The drainage basin is approximately 1.5 square miles.

During a stream survey conducted in 1977, DFG did not observe any fish (Rowser and Fong 1977). However, the survey report 

noted that a local resident observed an unknown number of steelhead in the creek under Riverside Road prior to the construction 

of a diversion to Dowdall Creek. Apparently, the diversion acts to bypass stream flows away from the lower mile of Dowdall 

Creek. The report rated Dowdall Creek as having little value as nursery or spawning habitat for fish due to the poor condition 

of potential spawning areas and barriers to upstream fish migration from vegetation growth in the lower two miles of streambed 

(Rowser and Fong 1977).

Agua Caliente Creek

The headwaters of Agua Caliente Creek begin as several tributaries on the southwest slopes of Bismark Knob and Hogback 

Mountain, and combine to flow in a west to southwest direction approximately 5.6 miles to the confluence with Sonoma Creek. 

The creek drains approximately ten square miles.

Between 1953 and 1961, DFG, State Hatchery and Wildlife Protection personnel rescued fish in drying portions of Agua 

Caliente Creek. The rescue data is summarized in Table VIII-3.

Table VIII-3. Fish rescued from Agua Caliente Creek, 1953-1961

Year Total fish rescued Size range

1953 3,206 1-2.5

1954 16,835 1.5

1961 4,600 -

(Source: Pintler 1954; Pintler 1956; Rowell 1961)

A visual survey of several reaches of Agua Caliente Creek in July 1965 noted steelhead in scattered pools at the end of Lomita 

Avenue off Arnold Drive (Meyer 1965). A visual survey also was conducted in August 1965 covering 7.5 miles from the Sonoma 

Creek confluence to the headwaters (Fox 1965). The survey report described juvenile steelhead (20-80 mm TL) density of about 

25 per 30 meters, with individuals in “good condition.” The survey report called Agua Caliente Creek a good spawning and 

rearing stream and recommended management to support steelhead habitat (Fox 1965).

In a 1965 letter, DFG noted that Agua Caliente Creek contained salmonid nursery habitat and supported a small population 

of YOY steelhead (Greenwald 1965). A visual stream survey of the Agua Caliente Creek watershed conducted by DFG in 1966 

estimated YOY O. mykiss at densities of greater than 50 fish per 30 meters along 1.5 miles (Rockwood 1966). Other reaches 

had densities ranging from 1 per 30 meters to 1 fish per 90 meters (Rockwood 1966). Overall, the survey concluded that Agua 

Caliente Creek was of little importance to anadromous fishes due mainly to poor spawning and rearing habitat availability 

(Rockwood 1966).
192

According to data complied by the Sonoma Ecology Center, O. mykiss were observed in Agua Caliente Creek in August and 

September 2001 (SEC 2003). Both YOY and age 1+ fish were noted.

Hooker Creek

The headwaters of Hooker Creek consist of two small perennial to intermittent, south to southwest flowing tributaries that join 

to flow west to the confluence with Sonoma Creek. Hooker Creek is over five miles in length and drains approximately 4.6 square 

miles, including the Wilson Creek watershed.

About two miles of Hooker Creek was visually surveyed by DFG in June 1966. No fish were observed, and the survey report 

stated that the creek lacked importance as a nursery area for anadromous fish (Rockwood 1966).

In 1977, DFG conducted a visual stream survey of Hooker Creek from its confluence with Sonoma Creek upstream a distance of 

five miles. According to the survey report, residents adjacent to Hooker Creek reported that trout had existed in the creek in the 

past but had not been seen within the previous two years. The report noted that the creek was probably a “fair” steelhead stream at 

one time (Spingla and Webb 1977a).

According to data complied by the Sonoma Ecology Center, O. mykiss were observed in Hooker Creek in May, June and July 

2002 (SEC 2003). Both YOY and age 1+ fish were noted.

Wilson Creek

Wilson Creek is a tributary to Hooker Creek draining primarily grape fields and numerous smaller tributaries, including Butler 

and Withman Creeks, originating in local canyons.

In April 1977, DFG visually surveyed Wilson creek from the mouth to the headwaters. Because of unusually low rainfall, flow 

was isolated to the headwaters with intermittent pools between the mouth and Madrone Road. No fish were found, but DFG 

staff speculated that Wilson Creek might have served as steelhead rearing habitat in years with normal flows (Spingla and Webb 

1977b). Staff from the Sonoma Ecology Center also expect that Wilson Creek supported O. mykiss historically (W. Pier pers. 

comm.).

Mill Creek

Mill Creek flows east out of the Sonoma Mountains from west of the town of Elridge. It joins Sonoma Creek in the vicinity of the 

Sonoma State Hospital.

Leidy sampled Mill Creek in December 1997. A 30-meter reach approximately 100 feet downstream of the road crossing at 

Sonoma State Hospital had seven O. mykiss (55-145 mm FL) (Leidy 2002).

According to data complied by the Sonoma Ecology Center, O. mykiss were observed in Mill Creek in June 2001 (SEC 2003). 

Both YOY and age 1+ fish were noted.
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Asbury Creek

Asbury Creek is a perennial stream that begins on the north slopes of Sonoma Mountain and flows northeasterly for a distance 

of approximately 2.5 miles to its confluence with Sonoma Creek. The drainage basin of Asbury Creek and its tributaries is 

approximately five square miles.

A visual stream survey by DFG in July 1966 estimated YOY steelhead density at 1-5 fish per 30 meters in the lower 1.5 miles of 

stream and noted that local residents had observed small numbers of steelhead migrating to spawn during the two to three years 

prior to 1966 (Rockwood 1966). However, the report rated Asbury Creek of minor importance to steelhead due to relatively poor 

spawning and rearing habitat quality (Rockwood 1966).

A 1996 survey noted a 25 meter concrete flume located immediately upstream of the Sonoma Creek confluence as a potential 

barrier to fish passage during high stream flows (SSCRCD 1996). Researchers cited long-time residents who indicated that 

Asbury Creek was a productive steelhead stream at one time and associated steelhead population declines with installation of the 

culvert. A diversion pipe about two miles upstream also was termed a barrier to anadromous fish. Between the confluence and the 

diversion pipe, six steelhead (1 age 0+; 5 age 1+) were seen by the survey team (SSCRCD 1996). Surveyors characterized rearing 

habitat in the lower reaches of Asbury Creek as “limited,” with spawning habitat “impacted by fine sediment.” Upper reaches 

were said to comprise good spawning habitat, with spring-fed flows in the headwaters providing cool summer water temperatures 

(SSCRCD 1996).

Calabazas Creek

The headwaters of Calabazas Creek begin as several perennial drainages that join and run in a west-southwest direction through 

Nunns Canyon 5.2 miles to the confluence with Sonoma Creek. A natural barrier to anadromous fish passage exists approximately 

1.5 miles upstream of the confluence. The drainage basin is approximately 7.7 square miles.

Calabazas Creek was surveyed by DFG from the mouth upstream approximately three miles to the headwaters in January 1961. 

Staff from DFG seined nine O. mykiss (76-178 mm TL)(Day 1961). Spawning areas for O. mykiss were observed to be suitable 

throughout the entire stream, with the most suitable spawning habitat located from Dunbar Road upstream for a distance of 1.5 

miles. The survey concluded that Calabazas Creek is a “fairly good” spawning stream for steelhead in the lower and middle reaches 

and recommended that Calabazas Creek continue to be managed as a steelhead spawning and nursery area (Day 1961).

In a 1962 report, Skinner indicated that Calabazas Creek was an historical migration route for steelhead (Skinner 1962). A visual 

stream survey of the Calabazas Creek watershed was conducted by DFG in 1966. Staff estimated YOY O. mykiss at a density of 

5-40 fish per 30 meters within a 3.5-mile reach upstream from the mouth to a series of impassable falls (Rockwood 1966). Some 

“excellent” spawning habitat was found, and the creek was called one of the better steelhead spawning and nursery tributaries to 

Sonoma Creek (Rockwood 1966).

Staff from DFG conducted a visual survey of Calabazas Creek in June 1974. While sampling locations are not provided in the 

survey record, the report concludes that Calabazas Creek is one of the more important steelhead spawning and rearing areas 

within the Sonoma Creek watershed (Jones 1974). The report noted that a “good” population of juvenile steelhead was present.
194

In September 1975, DFG performed visual surveys of Calabazas Creek along a five-mile reach from the mouth to the headwaters. 

Density of O. mykiss in the middle section was estimated to be 100 fish per 30 meters (Tyler and Coleman 1975). The survey 

report noted that Calabazas Creek provided good steelhead spawning and nursery area, but that steelhead were limited to the 

lower and middle areas by barriers and warm stream temperatures. The report recommended that Calabazas Creek be maintained 

as a steelhead spawning and nursery stream (Tyler and Coleman 1975).

Leidy sampled Calabazas Creek in June 1993. The sampling occurred at two reaches, one upstream and one downstream from 

the Atwood Ranch pump house. He collected 32 O. mykiss between 34-155 mm FL, all in excellent condition. Leidy visually 

estimated juvenile O. mykiss density to be 20 fish per 30 meters in a 200-meter reach upstream from the pump house (Leidy 

2002). This reach of Calabazas Creek was said to contain high quality spawning and rearing habitat. At a 30-meter reach 

upstream from the Highway 129 bridge, four O. mykiss (54-72 mm FL) were collected (Leidy 2002).

In September1993Leidy sampled three additional reaches in the headwater and middle sections of the Calabazas Creek watershed. 

The uppermost sampling site was located approximately 1.5 miles upstream from an impassable bedrock falls. No fish were 

collected at this site (Leidy 2002). The second site was a large pool at the base of the falls approximately 1.5 miles upstream 

from the mouth, where Leidy collected juvenile and adult O. mykiss (17: 68-217 mm FL). At a site approximately 0.4 miles 

downstream from the bedrock falls, Leidy found O. mykiss (25: 39-185 mm FL) and estimated density of juveniles at 15 fish 

per 30 meters (Leidy 2002). Overall, Calabazas Creek was found to contain good spawning and excellent rearing habitat for O. 

mykiss, and at least four-year classes were noted (Leidy 2002).

Calabazas Creek was electrofished between the confluence with Sonoma Creek and a point 3.5 miles upstream in July of 

1996. The survey team found five juvenile steelhead (3 age 0+; 1 age 1+; 1 age 2+) in a 183-meter reach downstream from the 

confluence of Stuart Creek. A second reach was electrofished downstream from Dunbar Road, resulting in a sample of 30 juvenile 

steelhead (27 age 0+; 3 age 1+). The survey report also notes visual observations of several steelhead trout on the Atwood Ranch in 

April 1996 and sightings of three age classes consistently throughout the creek (SSCRCD 1996).

Upstream portions of Calabazas Creek were characterized as being likely trout habitat and portions nearer the Sonoma Creek 

confluence as more characteristic of the “roach zone” (after Moyle 1976). A series of bedrock falls 3.5 miles from the confluence 

with Sonoma Creek were deemed barriers to migrating fish, and no fish were observed at locations upstream. The survey report 

concluded that Calabazas Creek contained “fair to good” salmonid habitat and recommended management as a steelhead stream 

(SSCRCD 1996).

Leidy again surveyed Calabazas Creek in July 1997. He collected seven O. mykiss (62-216 mm FL) in a 30-meter reach near 

Atwood Ranch (Leidy 2002). Electrofishing was performed in October 2002 in various Calabazas Creek. Juvenile O. mykiss (52-

75 mm FL) were noted in the creek, indicating reproduction (SEC 2002).

Stuart Creek

Stuart Creek originates as several small drainages near the northwest slopes of Mt. Veeder and flows in a southwest to westerly 

direction approximately five miles to its confluence with Calabazas Creek. The Stuart Creek watershed is approximately five 

square miles.
195

A visual stream survey of the Stuart Creek watershed conducted by DFG in June 1966 estimated YOY O. mykiss density at 10-

30 per 30 meters within a 2.2-mile reach from the mouth upstream to a series of impassable falls (Rockwood 1966). A pool 

downstream of a flashboard dam 1.2 miles from the confluence with Calabazas Creek had at least two-year classes of O. mykiss

(20-30 YOY; 15: 100-150 mm TL).

A visual stream survey of Stuart Creek was conducted by DFG in October 1975 from its confluence with Calabazas Creek 

upstream a distance of 3.1 miles. A natural falls was noted about 1.9 miles upstream of the confluence, apparently serving as a 

passage barrier for anadromous fish. Oncorhynchus mykiss (50-254 mm TL) were observed upstream of the falls at a density of 

approximately 10 per 30 meters of stream. These fish were believed to be resident O. mykiss derived from 1930s stocking efforts 

(Holstine et al. 1975). Downstream of the falls, O. mykiss (102-152 mm TL) were observed at a density of 1 per 30 meters of 

stream (Holstine et al. 1975). The report concluded that Stuart Creek was a poor steelhead spawning stream, but contained “fair” 

nursery habitat (Holstine et al. 1975).

According to data complied by the Sonoma Ecology Center, O. mykiss were observed in Stuart Creek in June 1995 (SEC 2003). 

Both YOY and age 1+ fish were noted.

Visual surveys were conducted on Stuart Creek in July 1996, and the condition of anadromous fish habitat was assessed. The 

surveys were conducted between the confluence with Sonoma Creek and the waterfall 1.9 miles upstream. The lower portions of 

the creek from the confluence with Calabazas Creek to approximately 1.5 miles upstream contained salmonids (age 0+ and 1+) in 

low numbers, while upstream reaches were observed to have “good” numbers in each of three age classes (0+, 1+, 2+) (SSCRCD 

1996). In general, lower portions of Stuart Creek were considered to have “poor” or “marginal” salmonid habitat due to channel 

dewatering, with upper reaches in good condition and containing some of the best habitat in the Sonoma Creek watershed 

(SSCRCD 1996).

Trinity Creek

Trinity Creek enters Calabazas Creek from the east upstream of Stuart Creek. Staff from the Sonoma Ecology Center believe that 

Trinity Creek likely supported O. mykiss historically. In a 2004 fish passage survey, staff noted O. mykiss in this creek (W. Pier pers. 

comm.).

Redwood Creek

Redwood Creek enters Calabazas Creek from the east upstream of Trinity Creek. Staff from the Sonoma Ecology Center have 

evidence that Trinity Creek supported O. mykiss historically. In a 2002 survey, staff noted O. mykiss in this creek (W. Pier pers. 

comm.).

Graham Creek

The headwaters of this perennial stream consist of three small drainages that originate on the northern slopes of Sonoma 

Mountain in Jack London State Park. These tributaries join to flow northeast approximately 1.9 miles to the confluence with 

Sonoma Creek near the intersection of Warm Springs Road and Sonoma Mountain Road. The drainage basin is approximately 

two square miles.
196

A 1946 visual stream survey by DFG noted that steelhead migrated upstream to a concrete diversion dam approximately 0.7 miles 

upstream from the confluence with Sonoma Creek (Curtis 1946). The DFG report characterized the portion of Graham Creek 

immediately upstream from Sonoma Creek as having “a few” salmonid spawning areas.

A visual stream survey by DFG in December 1959 reported only the lower 0.2 miles of Graham Creek as available to spawning 

steelhead due to complete barriers formed on the stream by water users (Day 1959). The biologist’s assessment of the stream was 

that it would contribute considerably to the steelhead runs of Sonoma Creek if migration barriers were removed (Day 1959). 

At the time of the survey, only small numbers of resident O. mykiss (50-200 mm TL) were seen in the creek. Staff from DFG 

estimated that steelhead would be able to use 2.5 miles of Graham Creek upstream of the mouth with barrier removal.

During another visual stream survey by DFG in February 1960, staff observed a spawning pair of steelhead in a riffle 

approximately 100 feet downstream from the Glen Ellen Water Company Dam (Day 1960). In April of 1960, DFG observed 

juvenile steelhead in “fair” numbers (38-50 mm TL) at various points from Warm Springs Creek Road upstream to the Glen Ellen 

Water Company dam (Day 1960).

A visual stream survey of the Graham Creek watershed conducted by DFG in July 1966 estimated YOY O. mykiss density to be 

5-10 per 30 meters (Rockwood 1966). Habitat was deemed only “fair” for spawning and “adequate” for rearing. However, the 

survey noted that Graham Creek had the potential to be a good spawning and nursery area for anadromous fish with the removal 

of two barriers that blocked access to an additional one mile of stream. Resident trout were observed upstream of the barriers 

(100-200 mm TL) (Rockwood 1966).

In 1976, DFG conducted a visual stream survey of Graham Creek from the confluence with Sonoma Creek upstream a distance 

of approximately 2.5 miles. Juvenile steelhead (to 127 mm TL) were recorded at a density of 50 per 30 meters between the mouth 

and a 2.5-meter concrete dam (Pinkham 1976b). Upstream of the dam, few fish were observed, mostly YOY and some larger O. 

mykiss (to 200 mm TL). Oncorhynchus mykiss were present from this lowermost dam upstream to a 12-foot bedrock fall located 

about 2.5 miles upstream from Sonoma Creek. Spawning habitat for salmonids was rated as “fair” to “good” throughout the 

middle stream reaches and nursery habitat as “excellent” (Pinkham 1976b). The survey report recommended management as a 

steelhead spawning and nursery stream.

A 15-meter reach of Graham Creek approximately 0.5 miles upstream from the Warm Springs Road crossing was sampled as part 

of a fish distribution study in September 1981. Three O. mykiss were collected (59-132 mm FL), and the density of O. mykiss

juveniles was visually estimated at 10 per 30 meters (Leidy 1984).

Leidy surveyed a 60-meter reach of Graham Creek upstream of Jack London State Park in October 1994. He collected 17 resident 

O. mykiss (47-190 mm FL).

Staff from DFG electrofished Graham Creek in the summer of 1996, finding steelhead at two locations: one just upstream from 

the confluence with Sonoma Creek and one in Jack London State Park. The first site yielded 30 juveniles (26 age 0+; 2 age 1+; 2 

age 2+) in a 30-meter reach, while the second had 36 juveniles (18 age 0+; 15 age 1+; 3 age 2+) in a 60-meter reach. No salmonids 

were observed upstream of where a 14-foot log and debris/rock falls appeared to impede further passage. The report characterized 

Graham Creek as completely within the “trout” zone (after Moyle 1976) but found mostly “fair to poor” salmonid habitat due to 
197

a lack of suitable pools, shelter and depth needed for rearing, as well as spawning habitat impacted by fine sediment. However, the 

report recommended management as an anadromous, natural production stream (SSCRCD 1996).

Electrofishing was performed in October 2002 in Graham Creek. Data from sampling indicate that multiple O. mykiss age classes 

(46-165 mm FL) are present in the creek (SEC 2002).

Yulupa Creek

Yulupa Creek is a small, perennial stream that runs from the Sonoma Mountains in an easterly direction to its confluence with 

Sonoma Creek about 2.5 miles south of Kenwood. The Yulupa Creek watershed is approximately five square miles. The creek has 

two principal forks, with the south fork consisting of about 2.8 miles of channel and the north fork and its intermittent tributaries 

accounting for another 4.3 miles of stream.

A visual stream survey of the Yulupa Creek watershed was conducted by DFG in 1966. The density of YOY O. mykiss was 

estimated at 5-10 per 30 meters (Rockwood 1966). Some spawning habitat was called “fair,” while nursery habitat was mostly 

“unsuitable” or “adequate.” The survey report noted that each year local residents observed very few adult steelhead and that a 

flash board dam on the south fork was a barrier to upstream migration except during high stream flows.

Another visual stream survey of the Yulupa Creek watershed conducted by DFG in 1976 noted steelhead ranging in length from 

10-28 mm TL. Fish were seen on the south fork downstream of a flash board near the confluence of the two forks as well as on 

the north fork about 650 feet upstream from this confluence (Pinkham 1976d). Steelhead density was visually estimated to be 10 

per 30 meters. The survey report also indicated that resident O. mykiss were observed upstream of an earthen road crossing on the 

north fork. The report noted that the south fork of Yulupa Creek contained potentially “good” steelhead spawning and rearing 

habitat, but that barriers such as dams and low stream flows limited utilization of these habitats (Pinkham 1976d).

A 20 meter reach of Yulupa Creek approximately 400 meters upstream from the Warm Springs Road crossing was sampled as 

part of a fish distribution survey in September 1981. Three O. mykiss (72-173 mm FL) were collected (Leidy 1984). During 

the summer of 1986, approximately 125 O. mykiss fry were transferred by local citizens from a desiccating pool on the upper 

south fork of Yulupa Creek near Kieser Ranch Road to two unknown downstream locations with perennial flow (Coleman and 

Sanchietti 1987).

Kunde Creek

Kunde Creek enters Sonoma Creek from the east upstream of Yulupa Creek. Staff from the Sonoma Ecology Center believe that 

Kunde Creek likely supported O. mykiss historically. In a 2004 survey, staff noted O. mykiss in this creek (W. Pier pers. comm.).

Fisher Creek

Fisher Creek enters Sonoma Creek from the east upstream of Kunde Creek. Staff from the Sonoma Ecology Center believe that 

Fisher Creek likely supported O. mykiss historically. In a 2004 survey, staff noted O. mykiss in this creek (W. Pier pers. comm.).
198

Unnamed Tributary to Sonoma Creek near Kenwood

This small, intermittent stream drains about two square miles of the southwest slopes of Mt. Hood in Sonoma County. The 

tributary intersects Lawndale Road, Highway 12 and Pythian Road near Kenwood. A smaller tributary running easterly from the 

Sonoma Mountains joins the creek approximately 0.6 miles upstream from its confluence with Sonoma Creek. The headwater 

reach consists of two forks constituting approximately 1.5 miles of channel length.

Staff from DFG did not observe any fish during a stream survey conducted in May 1977 (Webb and Boccone 1977). However, 

the survey noted that local residents had observed over a 30-year period adult steelhead migrating through, and spawning within, 

a two-mile stream reach beginning at the confluence of Sonoma Creek and continuing a distance of about one mile upstream 

from the Highway 12 crossing. Upstream from this point, a series of cascades and waterfalls apparently served as barriers to 

further upstream migration (Webb and Boccone 1977). The one-mile reach between Highway 12 and Sonoma Creek was rated 

as “good” steelhead spawning habitat. According to local residents, stream flows ceased in most years by June and water diversions 

sometimes completely dried the stream as early as late spring, stranding adult resident O. mykiss (Webb and Boccone 1977).

Bear Creek

The headwaters of Bear Creek consist of three small perennial streams originating on the northeast slopes of Mt. Hood and the 

north and west slopes of Bald Mountain that join to flow south approximately two miles to the confluence with Sonoma Creek. 

The drainage basin is approximately 1.6 square miles. A series of six bedrock falls five to ten feet high occur on the creek. The first 

falls, located approximately 0.5 miles upstream from the confluence of Sonoma Creek, is a barrier to the upstream movement of 

anadromous fish.

A visual stream survey of the Sonoma Creek watershed conducted by DFG in August 1946 noted that “sea-run” steelhead spawn 

in Bear Creek (Shapovalov and Bruer 1946). In 1965, DFG stated that upper Sonoma Creek including Bear Creek contained O. 

mykiss nursery habitat, and that YOY were abundant (Greenwald 1965). Stream survey notes for the Sonoma Creek watershed 

compiled by DFG during the summer of 1966 note that Bear Creek contains “good” spawning and rearing habitat and a “good” 

O. mykiss population estimated at between 10-20 per 30 meters (Greenwald 1965).

A visual stream survey of Bear Creek was performed in June 1976 from the confluence upstream a distance of 1.2 miles. Steelhead 

YOY (100-130 mm TL) were reported in pools about 0.2 miles upstream of the Sonoma Creek confluence (Pinkham 1976a). The 

average density of fish was estimated to be 20 per 30 meters. The survey report called Bear Creek one of the few tributaries in the 

Sonoma Creek watershed providing good steelhead spawning and rearing habitat, and recommended management as one of the 

most important spawning and nursery streams in the watershed (Pinkham 1976a).

Leidy sampled various portions of Bear Creek in July and September 1993. In a 40-meter reach near the Sonoma Creek 

confluence, he collected 12 O. mykiss (38-208 mm FL) and visually estimated juvenile density at 30 per 30 meters (Leidy 

2002). During the September survey, Leidy collected juvenile and adult O. mykiss (25: 35-164 mm FL) in a 24 meter reach 

approximately 0.2 miles upstream from the confluence with Sonoma Creek, and estimated juvenile density at 40 per 30 meters 

(Leidy 2002). Leidy found at least three O. mykiss year classes in Bear Creek during these sampling events. Bear Creek was found 

to contain good spawning and excellent rearing habitat for O. mykiss although the aerial extent was said to be limited by the small 
199

size of the stream. Cool water temperatures and constant stream flow during the summer months are typical due to the presence 

of seeps in the lower reach of the stream, and create good habitat conditions.

In 1996, DFG electrofished a Bear Creek site upstream from the Sonoma Creek confluence. One hundred ten juvenile steelhead 

(92 age 0+; 13 age 1+; 5 age 2+) were counted in a 90-meter reach (SSCRCD 1996). No steelhead YOY were seen upstream of 

an eight-foot bedrock fall located about 0.3 miles upstream of the Sonoma Creek confluence, and the researcher speculated that 

the fall was a barrier to upstream migration. Oncorhynchus mykiss assumed to be resident were observed upstream of the barrier 

(SSCRCD 1996).

Staff from DFG noted that Bear Creek offered the highest steelhead production capacity for its length (approximately 0.3 miles) 

of any Sonoma Creek watershed tributary. Favorable water temperature and canopy conditions were cited as contributing to 

the quality of salmonid habitat (SSCRCD 1996). The survey report concluded that Bear Creek should be managed as a 

steelhead stream.

Electrofishing was performed in October 2002 in Bear Creek. Data from sampling indicate that multiple O. mykiss age classes 

(38-138 mm FL) are present in the creek (SEC 2002).

Assessment: Sonoma Creek appears to have been an important contributor to regional steelhead resources based on the presence 

of runs of 500 individuals as late as 1965. Rescue data from 1954 also provide insight into the potential production of the system. 

Combined, Sonoma Creek, Agua Caliente Creek, and Carriger Creek produced a minimum of 27,475 juvenile O. mykiss in that 

year (Pintler 1956). These fish were derived from both anadromous stocks and fish rescued in previous years. 

Populations of O. mykiss are consistently found in surveys of mainstem Sonoma Creek and its tributaries in the last ten years, and 

the presence of multiple year classes indicates natural propagation. A Sonoma Ecology Center sponsored assessment of salmonid 

habitat conditions, conducted in the Sonoma Creek watershed between June and December 1998, found that neither water 

temperature nor spawning gravel were factors limiting steelhead production based on sampling at several locations throughout the 

mainstem and at locations on Carriger, Calabazas, Graham and Bear Creeks (Katzel and McKnight 2001; McKnight and Katzel 

2000). Sonoma Creek tributaries known to offer steelhead habitat include Agua Caliente Creek, Calabazas Creek and Stuart 

Creek. Bear Creek and the Sugarloaf Ridge State Park area provide additional important habitat resources.

Declines in the abundance of O. mykiss populations of the Sonoma Creek watershed and restriction of the species’ distribution 

have been noted in various survey reports and in interviews with long-time Sonoma County residents. Causative factors most 

likely include dam construction, effects of deforestation, water withdrawals, and past over-fishing. Additional studies related to 

fisheries enhancement are currently being conducted under the auspices of the Sonoma Ecology Center that will improve the 

understanding of the distribution of O. mykiss in the watershed.

Schell Creek Watershed

The watershed areas of two tributaries, Arroyo Seco and Nathanson Creek, which originate on the Sonoma/Napa divide north 

and east of the city of Sonoma, constitute the majority of the Schell Creek drainage. Schell Creek is a 3.4-mile channel that begins 

on the floor of Sonoma Valley south of the city of Sonoma and flows in a south-southeast direction through agricultural fields 
200

until it issues into the tidally influenced Schell and Steamboat Sloughs within the Sonoma Creek/Napa River wetland complex. 

Schell Creek, Nathanson Creek and Arroyo Seco combine to form a drainage basin of 21.2 square miles.

Schell Creek

In June 1976, DFG conducted a visual stream survey of Schell Creek from the confluence with Schell Slough to the headwaters. 

The survey report cited Schell Creek as only a migratory corridor for O. mykiss known to spawn in the upstream reaches of Arroyo 

Seco and Nathanson Creek (Pinkham 1976c). Urbanization and agricultural development were cited as causing adverse impacts to 

the habitat value of the creek.

As part of a fish distribution study, a site on Schell Creek was sampled by pole-seine in September 1981. No O. mykiss were found 

(Leidy 1984). Based on the results of a 2004 survey by the Sonoma Ecology Center, O. mykiss are known to use Schell Creek 

currently (W. Pier pers. comm.).

Arroyo Seco

Arroyo Seco is one of two main tributaries (with Nathanson Creek) of Schell Creek. A 1966 DFG report cited O. mykiss YOY 

observed in the upper sections of Arroyo Seco (Rockwood 1966). Fishermen sighted spawning O. mykiss in Arroyo Seco in winter 

2004 (W. Pier pers. comm.).

Haraszthy Creek

Haraszthy Creek is an intermittent tributary to Arroyo Seco that flows for a distance of 2.9 miles before joining Arroyo Seco. The 

Haraszthy Creek watershed is approximately 2.5 square miles.

Staff from DFG conducted a visual survey of Haraszthy Creek in June 1977 from the mouth to just upstream of Thornsberry 

Road, a distance of approximately three miles. No fish were observed during the survey, but the report noted “potentially good” 

spawning habitat approximately 0.5 miles upstream from its confluence with Arroyo Seco (Webb 1977). The DFG report 

recommended that Haraszthy Creek downstream of Haraszthy Falls be managed as steelhead spawning habitat. 

We did not find evidence of recent use by O. mykiss. However, the creek may be accessed currently by spawning O. mykiss and is 

proximate to other streams known to be used (W. Pier pers. comm.).

Nathanson Creek

Nathanson Creek drains primarily south from Hogback Mountain for a distance of 7.5 miles before joining Schell Creek. The 

Nathanson Creek watershed is 15 square miles.

A visual survey of several reaches of Nathanson Creek in July 1965 noted the presence of “small” mykiss in the upper reaches 

upstream from the city of Sonoma (Meyer 1965). In a 1965 letter, DFG noted that Nathanson Creek contained a small 

population of young steelhead within the three miles of permanent stream (Greenwald 1965). A DFG survey in June 1966 found 

YOY O. mykiss in the upper section of Nathanson Creek but did not report size or density information (Rockwood 1966).
201

In 1974, DFG conducted a visual survey of Nathanson Creek from the mouth upstream about 7.5 miles. Juvenile O. mykiss

(51-178 mm TL) were visually estimated at a density of 20 per pool in the reach downstream of a 60-foot natural falls. The 

falls are located about 2.5 miles upstream from the Lovall Valley Road crossing (Lincoln 1974). Oncorhynchus mykiss also were 

observed upstream of the falls, but no estimate of the number or size range of these fish is given. The survey report recommended 

management of the reach downstream of the falls as spawning and rearing habitat for steelhead (Lincoln 1974).

Nathanson Creek was sampled at East Napa Street in September 1981 as part of a fish distribution study. No O. mykiss were 

found (Leidy 1984). In spring 2002, O. mykiss fry were seen in Nathanson Creek, and several year classes were seen in spring 

2005 (W. Pier pers. comm.).

Assessment: Natural propagation of anadromous salmonids occurred in the Schell Creek watershed, particularly in Nathanson 

Creek, until at least 1976 and still occurs. However, insufficient recent information exists to assess the current contribution of this 

drainage to regional steelhead resources. 
202

Watershed Stream/ Tributary

Yrs. Surveyed/ Quant. Data

Max. Period of Record

Data

Type

Life Hist. Stage/No. Yrs. Data

Anad.Life-CyclePossible

O. mykiss Evidence 

of Pop. Decline

Current Pop.Status

References(Pers. Comm.) Hist. Current

Petaluma River Petaluma 2/0 1962- 1993 1, 2 - Y DF DF Y 1 23, 42, 50

San Antonio 2/0

0

1981

1, 2 - N DF PS Y 0 22, 28, 42

Adobe (Casa 

Grande) 3/2 1968- 97 1, 2, 3 J/3; R/1 Y DF DF - 1, 2, 3 11, 15, 23, 47,

Lynch 2/1 1968- 2000 0, 1 J/1 UNK DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 49 (1)

Washington 1/0 0 1968 1 - N UNK NP - 0 29(1)

Willow Brook 1/0 0 1968 1 - UNK UNK PS - 0 51(1)

Lichau 1/1 1968 1 J/1; R/1 UNK DF PS Y 0

48(1)

Sonoma Creek Sonoma 8/6 1946- 2002 0, 1, 2, 3 J/7; R/4; M/1 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 1, 2, 16, 20, 22, 23, 26, 27, 35-37, 39, 41, 42, 45, 57

Fowler 1/1 1986 3 J/1; R/1 UNK DF PB Y 0 14

Rodgers 6/2 1958- 2004 0, 1, 2 J/4; R/2 Y DF DF Y 1,2,3 1, 3, 5, 12, 16, 22, 26, 36 (2)

Felder 2/0 1970s- 2004 0,1,3 J/1 Y DF DF - 1,2,3 22 (2)

Carriger 5/3 1962- 97 1, 2, 3 J/5; R/2; M/1 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 1, 16, 18, 22, 23, 26, 34-37, 42, 46

Table VIII-4. Distribution status of O. mykiss in San Francisco Estuary streams of Sonoma County, Californiaa
203

Watershed Stream/ Tributary

Yrs. Surveyed/ Quant. Data

Max. Period of Record

Data

Type

Life Hist. Stage/No. Yrs. Data

Anad.Life-CyclePossible

O. mykiss Evidence 

of Pop. Decline

Current Pop.Status

References(Pers. Comm.) Hist. Current

Dowdall 1/0

prediversion 

1977

0, 1 - UNK PB NP Y 0 38 (2)

Agua Caliente 3/3 1965- 2002 0, 1 J/3 UNK DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 13, 16, 26, 34-37, 40

Hooker 3/1

pre1975

2002

0, 1 J/1 UNK DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 36, 40, 43

Wilson 1/0 0 1977 1 - UNK PB UNK - 0 44 (2)

Mill 2/2 1997- 2002 1, 2 J/2 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 23, 40

Asbury 2/2 1966-96 0, 1 J/2; M/1 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 36, 45

Calabazas 7/7 1961- 2002 1, 2, 3 J/7; R/4 Y DF DF - 1, 2, 3 9, 19, 23, 36, 39, 42, 45, 52

Trinity 1/0 2004 1 J/1 Y PB DF - 1, 2 (2)

Redwood 2/0 1980s- 2002 1 J/2 Y DF DF - 1, 2 (2)

Stuart 4/3 1966- 96 1, 2 J/4; R/3 Y DF DF - 1, 2, 3 17, 36, 40, 45

Graham 9/8 1946- 2002 0, 1, 2 J/8; R/5; M/2 Y DF DF - 1, 2, 3 6-8, 22, 31, 36, 39, 45

Yulupa 4/3 1966- 86 0, 1, 2 J/3; R/2; M/1 UNK DF PB Y 1 4, 22, 33, 36 
204

Watershed Stream/ Tributary

Yrs. Surveyed/ Quant. Data

Max. Period of Record

Data

Type

Life Hist. Stage/No. Yrs. Data

Anad.Life-CyclePossible

O. mykiss Evidence 

of Pop. Decline

Current Pop.Status

References(Pers. Comm.) Hist. Current

Kunde 1/0 2004 1 M/1 Y PB DF - 1 (2)

Fisher 2/0 2002- 2004 1 M/1 Y PB DF - 1 (2)

Unnamed 

Trib. near 

Kenwood

1/0 1947- 77 0, 1 - UNK DF UNK - 0 54

Bear 7/6 1946- 2002 0, 1, 2 J/5; R/3; M/1 Y DF DF - 1, 2, 3 16, 21, 23, 25, 30, 35, 39, 41, 45

Schell Creek Schell 3/0 2004 1,3 M/1 Y DF DF Y 1 22, 32 (2)

Arroyo Seco 2/0 1966- 2004 1 J/1; M/1 Y DF DF - 1 36 (2)

Haraszthy 1/0 0 1977 1 - UNK PS PS - 0 53 (2)

Nathanson 6/3 1965- 2005 1, 3 J/5; R/1 Y DF DF - 1, 2, 3 16, 22, 24, 26, 36 (2)

a Table headings and codes are defined in the Methods section of this report.
205

1. Allen, J. T. 1958. Fish rescue report, 1958, Region 3. CDFG.

2. Allen, J. T. 1962. Fish rescue report, 1959, Region 3. CDFG.

3. CDFG. 1958. Field Note: Rodgers Creek. CDFG, Yountville.

4. Coleman, D., and F. Sanchietti, Friends of Sonoma Creek. 1987. Memo to B. Cox, CDFG. Dated June 20.

5. Coleman, M., and M. S. Van Zandt, CDFG. 1975. Stream Survey Rodgers Creek. Report dated July 29.

6. Curtis, B. 1946. Stream Survey Graham Creek. CDFG.

7. Day, J. S., CDFG. 1959. Stream Survey Graham Creek. Report dated December 4.

8. Day, J. S., Unpublished. 1960. Field Note: Graham Creek, Sonoma County.

9. Day, J. S., CDFG. 1961. Stream Survey Calabazas Creek.

10. Elwell, R. F., CDFG. 1957. Stream Survey Sonoma Creek. Report dated February 4.

11. Emig, J. W., CDFG. 1993. Letter to T. Furrer, and United Anglers of Casa Grande High School. Dated November 5.

12. Evans, W. A., CDFG. 1966. Memorandum: WA 22456, Rodgers Creek, Sonoma County, Temelec Recreation, Inc, 

Applicant. Report dated June 24.

13. Fox, B., CDFG. 1965. Stream Survey Agua Caliente Creek. Report dated August 24.

14. Friends of Sonoma Creek. 1987. Letter to W. Cox, CDFG. Re: Observations of fish in Fowler Creek. Dated June 20.

15. Furrer, T. Website: United Anglers of Casa Grande. Accessed July 16, 2003. http://www.uacg.org/

16. Greenwald, W., CDFG. 1965. Letter to CE Busby. Report dated October 15.

17. Holstine, C., R. Tyler, and M. Coleman, CDFG. 1975. Stream Survey Stuart Creek. Report dated October 17.

18. Jones, W. E., CDFG. 1966. Memorandum: Fish Barrier, Carriger Creek, Sonoma County. Report dated April 14.

19. Jones, W. E., CDFG. 1974. Memorandum: Calabazas Creek, Sonoma County. Report dated June 13.

20. Kastner, C., CDFG. 1965. Memorandum: Fish Kill. Report dated May 18.

21. Katzel, M. and O. McKnight. 2001. Spawning gravel suitability assessment, Sonoma Creek watershed. Sonoma Ecology 

Center, Sonoma, CA.

22. Leidy, R. A. 1984. Distribution and Ecology of Stream Fishes in the San Francisco Bay Drainage (and associated 

unpublished data, 1981-1984). Hilgardia 52(8).

23. Leidy, R. A., USEPA. 2002. Unpublished stream survey data 1992-2002.

24. Lincoln, B., CDFG. 1974. Stream Survey Nathanson Creek. Report dated September 12.

25. McKnight, O. and M. Katzel. 2000. Sonoma Creek watershed assessment: 1998 water temperature monitoring. Sonoma 

Ecology Center, Sonoma, CA.

26. Meyer, F. A., CDFG. 1965. Survey of Sonoma Creek and Tributaries. Report dated July 6.

27. Michaels, J. 1977. The natural resources of Napa Marsh. Madrone Associates for CDFG.

28. Michaels, J., and B. Thomson, CDFG. 1968. Stream Survey San Antonio Creek (partial). Report dated July 9.

29. Michaels, J., and B. Thomson, CDFG. 1969. Stream Survey Washington Creek (July, 1968). Report dated June 24.

30. Pinkham, C., CDFG. 1976a. Stream Survey Bear Creek. Report dated July 15.

31. Pinkham, C., CDFG. 1976b. Stream Survey Graham Creek. Report dated August 13.

32. Pinkham, C., CDFG. 1976c. Stream Survey Schell Creek. Report dated June 24.

33. Pinkham, C., CDFG. 1976d. Stream Survey, Yulupa Creek. Report dated July 23.

34. Pintler, H. E. 1954. Fish rescue results, 1953, Region 3. CDFG.

35. Pintler, H. E. 1956. Fish rescue results, 1954, Region 3. CDFG.

References
206

Personal Communications

36. Rockwood, K. 1966. A Reconnaissance Report of Proposed Water Projects in the Sonoma Creek Drainage, Sonoma 

County. CDFG.

37. Rowell, J. H., Jr. 1961. Fish rescue report, 1961, Region 3. CDFG.

38. Rowser, B., and D. Fong, CDFG. 1977. Stream Survey Dowdall Creek. Report dated August 25.

39. SEC. 2002. Unpublished electrofishing field forms. SEC, Sonoma, CA.

40. SEC. 2003. Salmonid observations, 1995-2002. SEC, Sonoma, CA.

41. Shapovalov, L., and R. Bruer, CDFG. 1946. Unpublished stream survey. Report dated August 14.

42. Skinner, J. E. 1962. Fish and Wildlife Resources of the San Francisco Bay Area.

43. Spingla, S., and J. Webb, CDFG. 1977a. Stream Survey Hooker Creek. Report dated April 14.

44. Spingla, S., and J. Webb, CDFG. 1977b. Stream Survey Wilson Creek. Report dated April 7.

45. SSCRCD. 1996. Sonoma Creek Habitat Inventory. SSCRCD, Petaluma.

46. Steitz, C., and R. Johnson, CDFG. 1976. Stream Survey Carriger Creek. Report dated March 25.

47. Thomson, B., and J. Michaels, CDFG. 1968a. Stream Survey Adobe Creek.

48. Thomson, B., and J. Michaels, CDFG. 1968b. Stream Survey Lichau Creek.

49. Thomson, B., and J. Michaels, CDFG. 1968c. Stream Survey Lynch Creek.

50. Thomson, B., and J. Michaels, CDFG. 1968d. Stream Survey Petaluma Creek.

51. Thomson, B., and J. Michaels, CDFG. 1968e. Stream Survey Willow Brook.

52. Tyler, R., and M. Coleman, CDFG. 1975. Stream Survey Calabazas Creek.

53. Webb, J., CDFG. 1977. Stream Survey Haraszthy Creek. Report dated June 16.

54. Webb, J., and V. Boccone, CDFG. 1977. Stream Survey Unnamed Stream (Tributary to Sonoma Creek).

1. W. Cox, Department of Fish & Game, telephone conversations with G. Becker, CEMAR, on June 27, 2005, regarding 

O. Mykiss distribution in Sonoma County streams.

2. W. Pier, Sonoma Ecology Center, interview with G. Becker, CEMAR, on May 25, 2005 in Sonoma, California regarding 

O. mykiss distribution in Sonoma County streams.
207

SONOMA COUNTY MAPS

Historical status of Oncorhynchus mykiss in streams of Sonoma County, Caliornia. 

Current status of Oncorhynchus mykiss in streams of Sonoma County, Caliornia. 
208
213

NAPA COUNTY

Huichica Creek Watershed

The Huichica Creek watershed is in the southwest corner of Napa County. The creek flows in a generally southern direction 

into Hudeman Slough, which enters the Napa River via the Napa Slough. Huichica Creek consists of approximately eight miles 

of channel.

Huichica Creek

In March 1966 and in the winters of 1970 and 1971, DFG identified O. mykiss in Huichica Creek (Hallett and Lockbaum 1972; 

Jones 1966, as cited in Hallett, 1972). In December 1976, DFG visually surveyed Huichica Creek from the mouth to Route 121 

and concluded that the area surveyed offered little or no value as spawning or nursery grounds for anadromous fish. However, the 

area was said to provide passage to more suitable areas upstream (Reed 1976).

In January 1980, DFG visually surveyed Huichica Creek from Route 121 upstream to the headwaters. Oncorhynchus mykiss

ranging from 75–150 mm in length were numerous and were estimated at a density of 10 per 30 meters (Ellison 1980). The 

survey noted a six-foot falls approximately 1.75 miles upstream of Highway 121 as likely to be a complete barrier to upstream 

movement of steelhead (Ellison 1980).

A site on Huichica Creek at Highway 121 was sampled as part of a fish distribution study in September 1981. Two O. mykiss (79, 

87 mm FL) were collected by dip net from a ten-meter reach (Leidy 1984).

In April 1983, DFG electrofished three stations on Huichica Creek. A site 1.5 miles upstream of Route 121 and another at Route 

121 contained O. mykiss (42-252 mm FL) at densities estimated to be 3 per 30 meters. Oncorhynchus mykiss also were identified 

downstream of Route 121 but not collected (Jong 1983). In September 1985, DFG electrofished the same three stations on 

Huichica Creek. Two O. mykiss (~197 mm FL) were caught about 1.5 miles upstream of Route 121, while three O. mykiss (~214 

mm) were collected at Route 121. No O. mykiss were found downstream of Route 121 (Gray 1985).

In July 1988, DFG electrofished Huichica Creek at Route 121 and caught 19 O. mykiss ranging from 60-186 mm FL (Montoya 

1988a). In November 1989, DFG electrofished an established site approximately 1.5 miles upstream of Route 121 as well as a 

new site approximately 0.75 mile upstream of Route 121 at the confluence of an unnamed tributary. The established site yielded 

three O. mykiss, ranging in size from 95–110 mm FL. The new site yielded six O. mykiss (90–120 mm FL) (Gray 1989a).

Ecotrust and FONR surveyed Huichica Creek between May and September 2002. Relative density of steelhead was noted 

between 1 and 3, with 3 indicating greater than one individual per square meter. Oncorhynchus mykiss were observed in numerous 

Huichica Creek reaches, with five reaches having density level “3” (Ecotrust and FONR 2002).

Assessment: Huichica Creek appears to have hosted a steelhead run historically. In 1980, DFG categorized Huichica Creek as a 

moderate size drainage providing steelhead spawning and nursery habitat (Ellison 1980). Recent surveys in Huichica Creek by 

FONR and Ecotrust established that O. mykiss persists in the drainage, including areas of high relative density.
214

Napa River Watershed

Mainstem Napa River consists of about 40 miles of channel and covers 426 square miles. The river enters San Pablo Bay at the 

city of Vallejo. Lower Napa River is tidal to approximately 0.25 mile upstream of Trancas Bridge in the city of Napa. Major 

tributaries include Dry Creek, Redwood Creek, Sulphur Creek, Conn Creek, Soda Creek, Milliken Creek, and Napa Creek. 

Kimball Canyon Dam, near the headwaters of Napa River, is a complete barrier to upstream fish migration. The channel 

upstream from the dam is known as Kimball Canyon Creek.

A rare, watershed-wide steelhead resource analysis was performed by DFG in 1969 for the Napa River drainage. In the final 

document, DFG estimated the standing crop of juvenile steelhead at 87,300 to 144,600 fish (Anderson 1969f). According to 

DFG, this crop would result in an adult run of 580 to 960 steelhead given a return of 0.5 percent, or 1,160 to 1,930 steelhead 

based on a return of 1.0 percent (Anderson 1969f). The report also found larger populations of smaller-sized juvenile steelhead 

in the upper reaches of tributary streams, while lower reaches of tributary streams and isolated sections of Napa River supported 

smaller populations of larger-sized juveniles (Anderson 1969f). Mean juvenile fork length was about 25 mm less in upper reaches 

of tributary streams (64 mm) than in the mainstem Napa River (89 mm).

From October 1973 to February 1979, DFG conducted large-mesh and small-mesh gill-net surveys of fish in South, Dutchman, 

Devil’s and Hudeman sloughs in the Napa River Marsh with results provided in Table IX-1.

Table IX-1. DFG Oncorhynchus mykiss sampling in the Napa River Marsh, 1973-1979

Number Oncorhynchus mykiss Collected

1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979

South slough -- -- 3 -- -- 2 4

Dutchman slough -- 4 2 -- 1 1 --

Devil’s slough -- -- 1 1 -- -- 2

Hudeman slough 1 -- 5 6 -- 1 --

 Total 1 4 11 7 1 4 6

(Source: Kohlhorst 1973, 1976; Kohlhorst 1979).

Napa River

A 1959 DFG survey of the Napa River included mention of a creel survey during the winter of 1954-55. The creel survey found 

that almost 400 steelhead were harvested from the mouth upstream to Lincoln Bridge in the city of Calistoga (Fisher 1959c).

In June 1961, DFG visually surveyed the Napa River from one mile north of Calistoga downstream to Zinfandel Lane. In this 

11.5-mile reach, 26 YOY O. mykiss were observed up to about 75 mm in length (Day 1961b). Staff from DFG considered this 

reach of the Napa River to be the most important spawning and nursery area of the mainstem, but it was said to act primarily as a 

migration route for adult steelhead returning to spawn in the tributaries (Day 1961a).
215

In July 1965, DFG visually surveyed the Napa River and found it almost completely dry downstream of the Kimball Canyon 

Dam. No O. mykiss were observed in the few warm, isolated pools (Culley and Fox 1965). In February 1966, DFG surveyed two 

miles of the Napa River downstream of Kimball Canyon Dam and observed no fish (Brackett 1966a).

In July and August 1969, DFG electrofished seven stations on mainstem Napa River between the Blossom and Dry creek 

confluences. Oncorhynchus mykiss were collected at three stations near the Sulphur Creek confluence, with a total of 37 juvenile 

steelhead recorded (Anderson 1969a). Most of the steelhead were caught at Zinfandel Lane, including 30 fish ranging from 

69-122 mm FL. Steelhead densities were estimated at 39 per 30 meters at Zinfandel Lane and four per 30 meters at both Pratt 

Avenue and Pope Street. The report included an estimate of 3,000 juvenile steelhead in the standing crop of 1969 between 

Calistoga and Yountville (Anderson 1969a).

In August 1969, DFG electrofished the upper Napa River about 0.25 miles downstream of Kimball Canyon Dam. Steelhead 

ranged in size from 69-104 mm FL, and had an estimated population density of 24 per 30 meters (Anderson 1969b). At this 

time, the standing crop of juvenile steelhead in the Napa River upstream of Blossom Creek was estimated to be between 600 and 

2,500 fish (Anderson 1969f). In 1977 DFG published a natural resources assessment of the Napa Marsh in which the agency 

estimated the standing crop of juvenile steelhead from the Napa River drainage to be approximately 116,000 to 193,000 fish 

(Michaels 1977).

An employee of the Napa Water Department reported that he observed steelhead runs up to the base of Kimball Canyon Dam 

until the 1976 drought. After 1976, he observed only small trout in pools downstream of the dam (D. Anderson, pers. comm., 

cited in Leidy 2002).

In October 1988, DFG electrofished the Napa River from the confluence with Bell Canyon Creek downstream to Lodi Lane. No 

O. mykiss were caught (Montoya 1988c). In early October 1989, DFG set gill-nets in the Napa River downstream of the city of 

Napa and caught one steelhead (398 mm FL) (Gray 1989b).

Leidy found no O. mykiss when he electrofished four locations between Yountville and Calistoga in August and September 

1993, nor when he conducted otter-trawls at four locations in the Napa sloughs in July 1994 (Leidy 2002). In July 1997, Leidy 

electrofished a pool on the upper Napa River, immediately downstream of an arizona crossing at the Calistoga water treatment 

plant. He caught two O. mykiss (255, 210 mm FL) with a silvery appearance suggesting anadromy (Leidy 2002).

Leidy electrofished a Napa River site in Calistoga in August 1997 and did not encounter O. mykiss. Another site immediately 

upstream of the lower spillway at Pioneer Park did not produce O. mykiss (Leidy 2002).

In September 1998, the Corps and USFWS sampled 12 locations with 50-foot beach seines within the area of tidal influence on 

the Napa River in a reach from Lincoln Avenue in the city of Napa (RM 17.3) downstream to the Rocktram Steel Pipe Factory 

(RM 11.6). No salmonids were caught, but the report of the seining effort cited the typical steelhead run size (as of 1999) as 

being between about six thousand to a few hundred fish (Wilkinson 1999).
216

Carneros Creek

Carneros Creek drains an area of about nine square miles including a headwaters area consisting of the hills west of the city of 

Napa. It enters the Napa River at Cutting’s Wharf, south of the city of Napa (DCE 1999). 

In November 1958, DFG visually surveyed areas accessible by car on Carneros Creek between Cuttings Wharf and a point 6.5 

miles upstream. No fish were observed, but the local game warden and residents reported small runs of steelhead and a small 

resident trout fishery in the uppermost headwaters (Elwell 1958g).

In December 1976, DFG visually surveyed Carneros Creek from Cuttings Wharf to a point 3.0 miles upstream. This reach was 

reported as poor nursery habitat for steelhead, serving only as a migration route (Gillespie and Reed 1976).

In June 1981, DFG surveyed the lower 4.1 miles of Carneros Creek to locate stranded steelhead. Intermittent water was present 

throughout the surveyed reach, but no fish were observed. Three dams were found, two at ten feet high and another six feet high. 

All were considered complete barriers to migration (Harris and Ambrosins 1981b).

Ecotrust and FONR surveyed Carneros Creek between May and September 2002. Relative density of steelhead was noted 

between 1 and 3, with 3 indicating greater than one individual per square meter. Oncorhynchus mykiss were observed in numerous 

Carneros Creek reaches, with six reaches having density level “3” (Ecotrust and FONR 2002).

Suscol Creek

Suscol Creek consists of about eight miles of channel that drains the hills southeast of the city of Napa. It enters the lower Napa 

River about five miles south of the city of Napa.

In a 1949 letter, a landowner along Suscol Creek reported observing spawning steelhead in the winter and juveniles throughout 

the year (Berry 1949). The author noted perennial flows in the creek. In January 1955, DFG visually surveyed Suscol Creek in 

response to a proposed diversion for pasture irrigation. Oncorhynchus mykiss were observed and natural propagation was rated as 

“fair” (CDFG 1955).

In May 1973, DFG visually surveyed Suscol Creek from the mouth to the headwaters. Steelhead were observed throughout the 

stream, ranging in length from 25-205 mm, at estimated densities of 25-200 per 30 meters of stream (Reynolds 1973).

In January 1997, Leidy electrofished 30 meters of Suscol Creek between Devlin Road and highways 29/37. He caught eight O. 

mykiss ranging from 86–255 mm FL (Leidy 2002). The largest fish (178-255 mm) displayed smolt characteristics.

Ecotrust and FONR surveyed Huichica Creek between May and September 2002. Relative density of steelhead was noted 

between 1 and 3, with 3 indicating greater than one individual per square meter. Oncorhynchus mykiss were observed in six Suscol 

Creek reaches, with two reaches having density level “2” (Ecotrust and FONR 2002).
217

Tulucay Creek

Tulucay Creek consists of approximately eight miles of channel draining an area of 13 square miles. The creek enters the Napa 

River about 1.5 miles south of Imola Avenue (DCE 1999).

In November 1958, DFG surveyed points accessible by car on Tulucay Creek from the mouth to its headwaters. Oncorhynchus 

mykiss averaging 75-100 mm in length were noted but generally were scarce (Elwell 1958o). The report noted that Tulucay Creek 

supported nursery areas in the mid-section of the drainage adequate to sustain a population of trout (Elwell 1958f).

In June 1981, DFG visually surveyed Tulucay Creek from the mouth to the Green Valley Road crossing for the purpose of 

rescuing fish stranded by low flows. Several O. mykiss 75-200 mm were observed in perennial pools of the upper reach (Harris and 

Ambrosins 1981f). The Green Valley Road crossing was identified as a passage barrier.

In July 1992, DFG electrofished four Tulucay Creek sites downstream of the confluence with Murphy Creek. A pool at the Fourth 

Avenue Bridge contained one O. mykiss (240 mm FL) (Emig 1992a). The survey report noted that the population probably had 

been reduced because of low flows resulting from the lack of bypass requirements for upstream diversions (Emig 1992a).

Ecotrust and FONR carried out surveys in tributaries of the Napa River system in July and August 2001. Relative density of 

steelhead was noted between 1 and 3, with 3 indicating greater than one individual per square meter. One reach of Tulucay Creek 

was found to have O. mykiss at density level “1” (Ecotrust and FONR 2001).

Murphy Creek

Murphy Creek drains about one square mile directly east of the city of Napa. It is a perennial creek that joins Spencer Creek to 

form Tulucay Creek.

In June 1968, DFG investigated reports of a fish kill involving large numbers of Murphy Creek steelhead. During a subsequent 

survey, juvenile O. mykiss were observed between 38-100 mm in length at an estimated density of 20 per 30 meters of stream 

throughout the surveyed area (Jones 1968).

In August 1990, DFG electrofished pool sites upstream of the crossing at Shady Brook Lane. Five O. mykiss were caught ranging 

in size from 103-210 mm. An additional three to four O. mykiss (50-150 mm) were observed but not caught (Gray 1990d). 

The survey report noted a local resident’s statement that, until about 1970, many adult steelhead, typically 610-660 mm long, 

migrated up Murphy Creek.

In July 1992, DFG electrofished pools at two Murphy Creek sites. Oncorhynchus mykiss were found at both sites and ranged from 

126-249 mm (Emig 1992a).

Ecotrust and FONR carried out surveys in tributaries of the Napa River system in July and August 2001. Relative density of 

steelhead was noted between 1 and 3, with 3 indicating greater than one individual per square meter. Two reaches of Murphy 

Creek were found to have O. mykiss at density level “1” and one headwaters reach had level “2” (Ecotrust and FONR 2001).
218

Spencer Creek

Spencer Creek is tributary to Tulacay Creek and drains the area directly east of the city of Napa. Ecotrust and FONR carried out 

surveys in tributaries of the Napa River system in July and August 2001. Relative density of steelhead was noted between 1 and 

3, with 3 indicating greater than one individual per square meter. One headwater reach of Spencer Creek was found to have O. 

mykiss at density level “2” (Ecotrust and FONR 2001). Follow-up surveys were performed between June and September 2002. 

Oncorhynchus mykiss were found in one Spencer Creek reach (Ecotrust and FONR 2002).

Napa Creek

Napa Creek is formed by the confluence of Browns Valley Creek and Redwood Creek in Browns Valley west of the city of Napa. 

Napa Creek is contained almost wholly within the city of Napa. The combined drainage area of Napa Creek and its tributaries is 

15 square miles (DCE 1999).

In November 1958, DFG visually surveyed easily accessible reaches of Napa Creek from the confluence with the Napa River to 

the headwaters. No O. mykiss were found in the reach below the confluence of Redwood Creek and Brown Valley Creek (Elwell 

1958k).

Leidy sampled Napa Creek in January 1994 upstream of Jefferson Street. He did not find O. mykiss (Leidy 2002). Ecotrust and 

FONR carried out surveys in tributaries of the Napa River system in July and August 2001. Relative density of steelhead was 

noted between 1 and 3, with 3 indicating greater than one individual per square meter. Napa Creek was found to have O. mykiss

at density level “1” (Ecotrust and FONR 2001).

Browns Valley Creek

Browns Valley Creek consists of approximately 4.5 miles of channel flowing generally southeast to the city of Napa. It is tributary 

to Napa Creek.

In November 1958, DFG visually surveyed portions of Browns Valley Creek accessible by car. No fish were found. Because 

Browns Valley Creek typically dried by early spring, DFG considered this creek to have no fishery functions except contributing 

flows to Napa Creek (Elwell 1958l). In October 1966, DFG again visually surveyed Browns Valley Creek from the mouth to the 

headwaters. No O. mykiss were observed, and DFG reported that the creek did not support O. mykiss (McCurdy 1966).

Ecotrust and FONR carried out surveys in tributaries of the Napa River system in July and August 2001. Relative density of 

steelhead was noted between 1 and 3, with 3 indicating greater than one individual per square meter. One reach (of four) in 

Browns Valley Creek was found to have O. mykiss at density level “1” (Ecotrust and FONR 2001).

Redwood Creek

Redwood Creek is tributary to Napa Creek. It consists of approximately 13 miles of channel draining about 15 square miles.
219

In November 1958, DFG visually surveyed easily accessible reaches of Redwood Creek from the confluence with the Napa River 

to the headwaters. Oncorhynchus mykiss (75-100 mm average length) was found to be fairly common in the reach that sustained 

perennial flow, beginning just upstream of the junction of Browns Valley and Redwood roads and continuing upstream 3.5 miles 

to a natural falls. As a result, this reach of Redwood Creek was considered to be an excellent nursery ground for juvenile steelhead 

(Elwell 1958k).

In April 1965, the Napa Water Department inadvertently discharged chlorine into Redwood Creek, killing more than 10,000 

fingerling steelhead in a 1.5 mile reach (Greenwald 1965a). In June 1966, DFG visually surveyed portions of Redwood Creek 

accessible by automobile. Oncorhynchus mykiss were found at a density of 250-330 per 30 meters upstream of the Redwood and 

Mt. Veeder roads junction. Most of the fish sighted were YOY, with only a very few larger than 75 mm FL. Upstream of the 

confluence with Pickle Canyon Creek, YOY and other O. mykiss up to 230 mm in length were observed at an estimated density of 

70-100 per 30 meters. Two five-pound steelhead also were observed in the upper reach (Hicks and McCurdy 1966b). According 

to DFG, natural propagation appeared to be good throughout the section surveyed (Hicks and McCurdy 1966b).

In June 1967, DFG surveyed Redwood Creek upstream of the confluence of Redwood and Pickle Canyon creeks. Oncorhynchus 

mykiss density in two miles of the creek was estimated on average to be 25 per 30 meters. The greatest densities occurred 

immediately upstream of the Pickle Canyon Creek confluence, where O. mykiss density was estimated at 50 per 30 meters. Fish 

captured ranged between 25 and 75 mm in length (Thompson 1967b). Using population densities from earlier surveys, DFG 

estimated that 24,200 and 8,600 juvenile steelhead used 4.25 miles of Redwood Creek for “nursery purposes” in 1966 and 1967, 

respectively (Jones 1967).

In October 1969, DFG electrofished Redwood Creek one mile northwest of Mont La Salle School, near the end of Redwood 

Road. Of the 70 O. mykiss collected, 68 had fork lengths ranging from 38-76 mm (Anderson 1969c). A 112 mm and a 132 mm 

steelhead also were noted. Density was estimated at 75 per 30 meters. Based on the survey results, DFG estimated the 1969 

standing crop of steelhead juveniles to be between 21,400 and 29,700 fish in Redwood Creek and its tributaries (Anderson 

1969c).

In April 1977, DFG visually surveyed Redwood Creek from the mouth to near the headwaters. A small flowing reach near the 

mouth did not support live O. mykiss, although a dead adult steelhead was found at the upstream end of this reach. From five 

miles upstream of the mouth to the headwaters, O. mykiss (100–180 mm) were found at an estimated density of 10 per 30 meters 

(Gillespie and Rowser 1977). 

In October and November 1984, DFG visually surveyed Redwood Creek from the Redwood Road crossing near Dry Creek Road 

upstream to the end of Redwood Road. Oncorhynchus mykiss (50–125 mm) was observed most commonly in the main canyon 

upstream of the Mt. Veeder Road crossing (Emig 1984c).

In November 1985, DFG electrofished two Redwood Creek sites, one immediately downstream, the other extending 0.25 miles 

upstream from the intersection of Redwood and Mount Veeder roads. Two juvenile steelhead were caught, one 91 mm in length 

and the other 92 mm in length (Gray 1986c).
220

In June and July 1987, DFG visually surveyed Redwood Creek from Castle Rock to the mouth. Oncorhynchus mykiss was observed 

throughout the creek, with various age classes in the upper portion but very few YOY. In the lower part of the creek, most of the 

trout were YOY (Montoya 1987c). Oncorhynchus mykiss was estimated to average 65 mm in length (Montoya 1987c).

Leidy sampled 30-meter reaches at three Napa River locations in January 1994. About 0.3 miles upstream from Castle Rock, he 

caught 13 O. mykiss (50-132 mm FL) and two larger O. mykiss (245, 260 mm) (Leidy 2002). The lack of spotting on the sides 

and the condition of the anal and pectoral fins suggested anadromy in the larger fish. At Castle Rock, Leidy caught five O. mykiss

(57-93 mm) and observed six others reflecting two size classes (4: 60-100 mm; 2: 125-150 mm). The most downstream station, 

immediately downstream of the Redwood Road Bridge, produced three O. mykiss (104, 119, 122 mm).

Ecotrust and FONR carried out surveys in tributaries of the Napa River system in July and August 2001. Relative density of 

steelhead was noted between 1 and 3, with 3 indicating greater than one individual per square meter. Of 21 Redwood Creek 

reaches, eight were found to have O. mykiss at density level “1,” while five reaches had density level “2” and three reaches had level 

“3” (Ecotrust and FONR 2001). Follow-up surveys were performed between June and September 2002. Oncorhynchus mykiss were 

found in numerous Redwood Creek reaches, including two reaches at density level “2” (Ecotrust and FONR 2002).

Pickle Canyon Creek

Pickle Canyon Creek is tributary to Redwood Creek and consists of about 3.5 miles of channel. It drains a relatively undeveloped 

area southwest of the city of Yountville.

In June 1966, DFG visually surveyed Pickle Canyon Creek from the mouth to the headwaters. Numerous juvenile O. mykiss

(25-75 mm) and a few fish ranging from 150-250 mm in length were observed in the lower two miles of stream. Densities were 

estimated at 50-70 per 30 meters (Hicks and McCurdy 1966a). In June 1967, DFG again surveyed the entire creek length. 

Oncorhynchus mykiss densities were estimated at 25-30 per 30 meters in the lower two miles of stream. In the upper survey 

area, densities dropped to less than one fish per 30 meters (Thompson 1967a). Using population densities from earlier surveys, 

DFG estimated that 6,200 and 2,900 juvenile steelhead used two miles of Pickle Canyon Creek for rearing in 1966 and 1967, 

respectively (Jones 1967).

In May 1978, DFG electrofished four stations on Pickle Canyon Creek upstream and downstream of its confluence with an 

unnamed tributary. A total of 36 O. mykiss were caught at the four sites. Fish ranged in length from 61–84 mm FL (Baracco 

1978). Population densities were found to range between 6.5 and 11.5 per 30 meters of stream.

In June 1981, DFG surveyed the lower 3.2 miles of Pickle Creek to locate stranded steelhead juveniles for rescue. Most of the 

creek was dry, although a few steelhead juveniles were spotted in isolated pools (Ambrosins 1981c).

Ecotrust and FONR carried out surveys in tributaries of the Napa River system in July and August 2001. Relative density of 

steelhead was noted between 1 and 3, with 3 indicating greater than one individual per square meter. Of eight Pickle Canyon 

Creek reaches, two were found to have O. mykiss at density level “1,” while two reaches had density level “2” and two reaches had 

level “3” (Ecotrust and FONR 2001). Follow-up surveys were performed between June and September 2002. Oncorhynchus mykiss 

were found in two Pickle Canyon Creek reaches (Ecotrust and FONR 2002).
221

Milliken Creek

Milliken Creek drains an area of 30 square miles (DCE 1999). The city of Napa’s Lake Milliken dam was constructed on the creek 

in 1924 without a fishway and serves as an impassable barrier to upstream migration.

A June 1940 DFG lake survey report noted natural populations of steelhead having moderate success in Milliken Reservoir with 

YOY (50-65 mm) observed in inlet streams (Shapovalov 1940a). Draining of Milliken Reservoir in 1954 revealed only a few trout 

(Evans 1954). In 1958, DFG characterized the six miles of Milliken Creek downstream of the reservoir as useful for spawning by 

steelhead (Elwell 1958c).

In February 1959, DFG surveyed Milliken Creek upstream of Milliken Reservoir, including a two mile reach downstream of 

a 40 foot falls that served as a complete barrier to fish migration. Although no fish were observed, the dam’s caretaker reported 

spawning runs of O. mykiss from the lake upstream in Milliken Creek in late fall of that year (Fisher 1959b).

In May 1966, DFG visually surveyed Milliken Creek from the mouth upstream to Milliken Reservoir. One 405 mm O. mykiss

was found at the base of the Silverado Country Club Diversion Dam upstream from Atlas Peak Road. Between the diversion 

dam and Milliken Reservoir, O. mykiss were observed ranging from 50-150 mm and at an estimated density of 40 per 30 meters 

(Brackett 1966b). 

In March 1967, DFG visually surveyed Milliken Creek from the mouth to Milliken Reservoir. A 510 mm steelhead was observed 

at the base of the Silverado Country Club Diversion Dam (Thompson 1967c). 

In July 1975, DFG visually surveyed Milliken Creek from Milliken Reservoir upstream 3.6 miles. Downstream of a natural falls, 

O. mykiss ranging in size from 50-100 mm were observed at an estimated density of 5 per 30 meters. No O. mykiss were found 

upstream of the falls (Henry and Coleman 1975).

In November and December 1975, DFG visually surveyed Milliken Creek from the Silverado Country Club Diversion Dam to 

Milliken Reservoir. About two miles upstream of the country club, a 20-foot barrier was identified where the city of Napa built a 

diversion dam at a bedrock outcrop. No fish were found upstream of this barrier. Steelhead were observed ranging from 50-255 

mm downstream of the barrier, at an estimated density of 20 per 30 meters (Tyler and Holstine 1975).

In April and May 1980, DFG visually surveyed Milliken Creek from its mouth to the Napa Diversion Dam. This effort was 

followed up with an electrofishing survey at four stations. Upstream of the Napa City Diversion Dam, five O. mykiss were caught 

ranging from 115-199 mm FL. At the mouth of Milliken Canyon, 13 O. mykiss were caught ranging from 117–187 mm in 

length. Numerous O. mykiss fry were seen but not collected (Ellison et al. 1980).

In June 1981, DFG visually surveyed Milliken Creek from the mouth to the Silverado Country Club Diversion Dam in order to 

locate steelhead stranded by low flows. No steelhead were found (Ambrosins 1981b).

In July 1987, DFG visually surveyed Milliken Creek from its mouth to Milliken Reservoir, and recorded two O. mykiss (50, 380 

mm) (Montoya 1987b). In July 1988, DFG electrofished Milliken Creek at the Silverado Country Club and found 11 O. mykiss

from 61–268 mm (Montoya 1988b).
222

Leidy found no O. mykiss when electrofishing at the Trancos Road Bridge in August 1993 (Leidy 2002). However, in June 1998, 

he found O. mykiss at two other sites electrofished on Milliken Creek. At Atlas Peak Road, Leidy caught one O. mykiss (61 mm 

FL) and at Westgate Drive in the Silverado Country Club he caught two O. mykiss (50, 53mm FL) (Leidy 2002).

Ecotrust and FONR carried out surveys in tributaries of the Napa River system in July and August 2001. Relative density of 

steelhead was noted between 1 and 3, with 3 indicating greater than one individual per square meter. Of seven Milliken Creek 

reaches, three were found to have O. mykiss at density level “1,” while two reaches had density level “3” (Ecotrust and FONR 

2001). Follow-up surveys were performed between June and September 2002. Oncorhynchus mykiss were found in numerous 

Milliken Creek and Millien Creek tributary reaches, including three reaches at density level “3” (Ecotrust and FONR 2002).

Sarco Creek

Sarco Creek drains the area northeast of the city of Napa. Its mouth on Milliken Creek is located immediately upstream from 

Milliken Creek’s confluence with the Napa River.

In August 1987, DFG visually surveyed the lower five miles of Sarco Creek from the mouth to Mount George, and also the lower 

3.9 miles of a major unnamed tributary that joins Sarco Creek just upstream of its confluence with Milliken Creek. No O. mykiss

were observed in either creek (Montoya 1987d, 1987e).

In August 1990, DFG electrofished Sarco Creek at an area off Langley Park Lane. One O. mykiss (210 mm FL) was caught. Three 

O. mykiss of comparable size as well as two smaller individuals were observed but not caught (Gray 1990g). The survey report 

noted that the fish were presumed to be resident forms of an ancestral stock of steelhead.

In August 1993, Leidy electrofished Sarco Creek at the Trancos Road Bridge. No O. mykiss were found (Leidy 2002). Ecotrust 

and FONR carried out surveys in tributaries of the Napa River system in July and August 2001. Relative density of steelhead 

was noted between 1 and 3, with 3 indicating greater than one individual per square meter. Of two Sarco Creek reaches, one was 

found to have O. mykiss at density level “1” (Ecotrust and FONR 2001). Follow-up surveys were performed between June and 

September 2002. Oncorhynchus mykiss were found in five Sarco Creek reaches, including one reach at density level “2” (Ecotrust 

and FONR 2002).

Camp Creek

Camp Creek is tributary to Milliken Reservoir. In June 1940, DFG identified O. mykiss ranging from 50-65 mm in length in a 

flowing reach of Camp Creek just upstream of the mouth. According to the Milliken Reservoir caretaker, steelhead spawned in 

portions of the creek downstream from an impassable natural falls (Shapovalov 1941).

Salvador Outfall Channel

Salvador Outfall Channel is the local name for an otherwise unnamed tributary to the Napa River. Its confluence with the Napa 

River is located north of Trancas Avenue.
223

In March 1977, DFG surveyed approximately one mile of the Salvador Outfall Channel from Vintage High School to the mouth. 

Six adult steelhead were observed between Big Ranch Road and the mouth. Staff from DFG speculated that adult steelhead used 

this stream when low flows prevented access to more suitable upstream tributaries of the Napa River, but that flows and water 

quality were inadequate for juvenile fish (Baracco 1977).

Soda Creek

This Napa River tributary consists of approximately six miles of channel between the headwaters and the mouth. Soda Creek 

joins the Napa River approximately three miles north of the city of Napa. A natural falls occurs nearly three miles upstream of the 

mouth and appears to constitute a barrier to upstream migration.

In June 1940, DFG identified O. mykiss ranging from 50 to 75 mm in length near the mouth of an unnamed tributary of Soda 

Creek (Shapovalov 1940d). In November 1958, DFG visually surveyed Soda Creek from the mouth to the headwaters. Small 

numbers of O. mykiss ranging between 75 and100 mm in length were observed in the middle section of drainage that had 

recorded flows on this date (Elwell 1958n). The upper and lower reaches were dry at the time of the survey. In the survey report, 

DFG cited the local warden as saying that each year steelhead runs occurred that were smaller than only the Dry Creek and 

Redwood Creek runs. A 14-foot bedrock barrier was described near the junction of Soda Canyon and Soda Springs roads. (Elwell 

1958n).

A November 1958 DFG report noted that the lowermost three miles of Soda Creek was utilized by steelhead for spawning 

purposes (Elwell 1958e). The report also noted that the lowest one-mile portion of this reach maintained permanent flows and 

served as a nursery area for juvenile steelhead (Elwell 1958n).

In February 1964, ten female and four male steelhead kelts were rescued from a drying pool in Soda Creek approximately two 

miles upstream of the mouth. The rescued fish were transported to the Napa River. Additional fish were reportedly poached in the 

previous week (Jones 1964a).

In May 1980, Soda Creek was surveyed visually from the Silverado Trail to the headwaters. Three sites were electrofished. The 

first station, at the first junction with Soda Canyon Road, produced seven O. mykiss (52-67 mm). The second site, at Loma Vista 

Drive, had six O. mykiss (57-69 mm). The last site, approximately 2.3 mile upstream of the mouth, had 37 O. mykiss (60-279 

mm) (Ellison and Carnine 1980).

In December 1985, DFG caught 18 wild O. mykiss in Soda Creek while monitoring the movement of stocked steelhead. Sizes of 

fish ranged from 79-202 mm, and a 159 mm male was found to be sexually mature (Gray 1986a). Planted O. mykiss also were 

recovered during the survey. In February 1986, three wild O. mykiss (75-125 mm) and 104 planted steelhead were caught during 

a monitoring study (Gray 1986d). In May 1986, an additional 16 O. mykiss (180-270 mm) were caught, nine of which were 

assumed to be wild (Gray 1986e).

Ecotrust and FONR carried out surveys in tributaries of the Napa River system between June and September 2002. Oncorhynchus 

mykiss were found in four Soda Creek reaches (Ecotrust and FONR 2002).
224

Dry Creek

Dry Creek drains an area of 20 square miles (DCE 1999). From its headwaters near Bald Mountain, the creek flows generally 

southeast to its confluence with the Napa River north of the city of Napa.

In October 1969, DFG electrofished Dry Creek in the vicinity of Dry Creek Road. Steelhead ranged in size from 38-81 mm, with 

one 170 mm trout. Estimated density of fish was 92 per 30 meters (Anderson 1969a).

In June 1981, DFG electrofished Dry Creek and caught more than 200 steelhead ranging in size from 33-86 mm FL (Ellison 

1981c). In June 1981, DFG rescued 970 steelhead YOY, presumably trapped in drying portions of Dry Creek, and transferred 

them to the Silverado Field Operations Base (Baker 1981). Another 212 O. mykiss were reported dead.

In 1983, a DFG fish population survey included an estimate of steelhead density of 46 fish per 30 meters (Emig 1992b). In 

March 1987, DFG electrofished lower Dry Creek and caught a juvenile steelhead (50 mm FL). Several adult steelhead were seen 

spawning nearby (Gray 1987b).

Leidy electrofished Dry Creek in June 1996 and again in August 1997. In 1996, he caught 16 O. mykiss (58-210 mm FL) at the 

intersection of Oakville Grade and Dry Creek Road, and estimated trout density at 25 per 30 meters of stream. Leidy found four 

O. mykiss (110-210 mm) at the Highway 29 frontage road, with an estimated fish density of 10 per 30 m. In 1997, about one 

mile upstream from the lower one-lane bridge on Dry Creek Road, Leidy caught two O. mykiss (140, 147 mm) and estimated fish 

density at 5 per 30 meters. Immediately upstream, he collected five O. mykiss (125-142 mm) and estimated density at 10 per 30 

meters (Leidy 2002). 

Ecotrust and FONR carried out surveys in tributaries of the Napa River system in July and August 2001. Relative density of 

steelhead was noted between 1 and 3, with 3 indicating greater than one individual per square meter. Of 17 Dry Creek reaches, 

four were found to have O. mykiss at density level “1,” while six reaches had density level “2” and three reaches had level “3” 

(Ecotrust and FONR 2001). Follow-up surveys were performed between June and September 2002. Oncorhynchus mykiss were 

found in numerous Dry Creek and Dry Creek tributary reaches, including 31 reaches at density level “3” (Ecotrust and 

FONR 2002).

Hopper Creek

Hopper Creek is tributary to Dry Creek. A reservoir on Hopper Creek formerly supplied water supply for the city of Yountville 

and constituted the upper limit of the system for anadromous fish usage. The reservoir appears to have been constructed 

immediately upstream from a natural falls that acted as a passage barrier (Pinkham 1976).

In August 1976, DFG visually surveyed Hopper Creek from Highway 29 to its headwaters. No O. mykiss were observed, but local 

residents reported that the stream downstream of the reservoir supported runs of steelhead during high water years (Pinkham 

1976).

In June 1981, DFG visually surveyed the lower 1.9 miles of Hopper Creek to locate stranded steelhead juveniles for rescue. No O. 

mykiss were observed (Harris and Ambrosins 1981e).
225

Ecotrust and FONR carried out surveys in tributaries of the Napa River system in July and August 2001. One Hopper Creek 

reach was surveyed and O. mykiss were not observed (Ecotrust and FONR 2001). Staff from the Napa County Resource 

Conservation District report that the creek is likely to be used by O. mykiss in some years (J. Koehler pers. comm.).

Hinman Creek

Hinman Creek drains an area of about 2.5square miles and is tributary to Hopper Creek. Hinman Reservoir dam is a fish passage 

barrier occurring about 2.5 miles upstream from the mouth.

In June 1966, DFG visually surveyed Hinman Creek from the mouth to Hinman Reservoir. No O. mykiss were observed (Hicks 

1966). Hinman Reservoir was sampled by DFG using gill nets in November 1974 and again no O. mykiss were found in the 

fish assemblage. In January 1975, 25 O. mykiss 50–75 mm in length were found when Hinman Reservoir was drained. At this 

time, DFG also poisoned the creek immediately upstream of the reservoir and afterward found six dead O. mykiss. Dorsal fin 

deformation indicated that these fish were of hatchery origin (Week 1975).

In January 1984, DFG electrofished Hinman Creek near the Domaine Chandon property and found four O. mykiss ranging from 

50-160 mm in length (Gray 1990b). In April 1987, DFG electrofished the same reach of Hinman Creek but did not encounter 

O. mykiss (Gray 1990b). The survey report speculated that O. mykiss probably were present in the system. Staff from the Napa 

County Resource Conservation District report that the creek may be used by O. mykiss in some years (J. Koehler pers. comm.).

Segassia Canyon Creek

Segassia Canyon Creek is tributary to Dry Creek from the west. The creek appears to be less than one mile in length, draining the 

eastern slopes of Mt. Veeder.

Ecotrust and FONR carried out surveys in tributaries of the Napa River system between June and September 2002. Oncorhynchus 

mykiss were found in several Segassia Canyon Creek reaches, including one reach at density level “3” (Ecotrust and FONR 2002).

Wing Canyon Creek

Wing Canyon Creek is tributary to Dry Creek from the west. The creek appears to be less than one mile in length, draining the 

eastern slopes of Mt. Veeder.

Ecotrust and FONR carried out surveys in tributaries of the Napa River system between June and September 2002. Oncorhynchus 

mykiss were found in several Wing Canyon Creek and tributary creek reaches, including six reaches at density level “3” (Ecotrust 

and FONR 2002).

Campbell Creek

Campbell Creek is the local name for an otherwise unnamed tributary of Dry Creek. A February 1997 DFG field note reported 

that Campell Creek was known to have populations of steelhead (Emig 1997). 
226

In June 1996, Leidy electrofished an unnamed tributary of Dry Creek known locally as Carmel Creek or Campbell Creek 

immediately upstream of Oakville Grade Road. He caught ten O. mykiss averaging from 41-73 mm FL, and estimated population 

density at 20 per 30 meters (Leidy 2002).

Montgomery Creek

Montgomery Creek is a seasonal tributary to Dry Creek with a watershed of about two square miles. It drains a portion of the 

range forming the west side of the Napa Valley and flows generally north to join Dry Creek at the junction of Dry Creek and Mt. 

Veeder roads.

In December 1975, DFG visually surveyed Montgomery Creek from the mouth to the Mount Veeder Road crossing. No fish were 

observed. In the survey report DFG noted residents’ reports that the creek dried up early in spring (Holstine 1975).

Ecotrust and FONR carried out surveys in tributaries of the Napa River system in July and August 2001. Relative density of 

steelhead was noted between 1 and 3, with 3 indicating greater than one individual per square meter. Of three Montgomery 

Creek reaches and two reaches in a tributary, one reach was found to have O. mykiss at density level “2,” while two reaches had 

density level “3” (Ecotrust and FONR 2001).

Conn Creek

Conn Creek drains an area of 60 square miles (DCE 1999). Construction of the Conn Valley Reservoir (Lake Hennessey) in 1945 

completely curtailed access to more than eight miles of Conn Creek and numerous tributary streams, including Chiles, Moore, 

Sage and Fir creeks.

In September 1945, DFG observed large numbers of trout in the upper sections of Conn Creek (Ott 1945). In 1946, DFG noted 

that a moderately large population of trout, from fingerlings to 200 mm in length, was present in the tributary streams of Conn 

Valley Reservoir (Murphy 1949). In a May 1947 creel census, DFG found both hatchery and wild O. mykiss in the group taken 

by anglers from the reservoir. However, by 1948, practically no trout were present in the tributary streams (Murphy 1949). The 

Department of Fish and Game concluded that the trout fishery would not be self-maintaining even in years of “good” flows in 

spawning streams because of low survival of adults in the reservoir (Murphy 1949).

In February 1959, DFG made a cursory survey of eight sites near road access on Conn Creek upstream of Lake Hennessey. No O. 

mykiss were observed, but residents reported catching small numbers of O. mykiss up to 300 mm in length (Fisher 1959a).

In April 1979, DFG electrofished two sites above the reservoir on Conn Creek in relation to an oil spill. Approximately 400 feet 

upstream of Linda Falls, five O. mykiss were caught (131-192 mm FL). Behind the Angwin Fire Station on College Road, another 

seven O. mykiss were collected (95-157 mm). Additional O. mykiss were seen at both sites, but evaded capture (Cox 1979).

In September 1988, DFG electrofished two reaches on Conn Creek above the reservoir, near the Rossi Road Bridge. A total of 

seven O. mykiss were caught measuring 55-186 mm in length (Gray 1988a).
227

Leidy found O. mykiss downstream of the reservoir at two locations electrofished in July 1994. Just downstream from Domain 

Chandon vineyard he caught five O. mykiss (78-100 mm FL) with an estimated density at 10 per 30 meters of stream. At the 

confluence with Rector Creek, he collected two O. mykiss (75, 95 mm) and estimated density at 5 fish per 30 meters 

(Leidy 2002).

Ecotrust and FONR carried out surveys in tributaries of the Napa River system in July and August 2001. Two Conn Creek 

reaches were surveyed, and O. mykiss were not observed (Ecotrust and FONR 2001).

Rector Creek

Rector Creek is tributary to Conn Creek downstream of Hennessey Reservoir. It drains an area of 12 square miles (DCE 1999). 

Rector Reservoir, located immediately upstream of the Silverado Trail, is a complete barrier to upstream steelhead migration.

In December 1985, DFG electrofished a 300 meter reach of Rector Creek upstream of Rector Reservoir. A total of 41 O. mykiss

(52-116 mm FL) were caught and kept for disease analysis. One female and three males were found to be sexually mature (Gray 

1986b).

In March 1986 DFG electrofished Rector Creek between the Silverado Trail and the spillway of Rector Reservoir, which was 

spilling at the time of the survey. Three adult O. mykiss (approximately 305 mm FL) and 30 O. mykiss juveniles (100-150 mm) 

were caught. Some fish were silvery, indicating smolt transformation (Emig 1986).

In February 1988, DFG electrofished approximately 600 meters of Rector Creek upstream from the reservoir collecting O. mykiss

for bacterial kidney disease analysis. A total of 53 O. mykiss were caught ranging in size from 60-400 mm FL. According to DFG, 

the two largest individuals (315 and 400 mm) were in spawning condition (Gray 1988b). A 2004 survey found O. mykiss in 

Rector Creek (J. Koehler pers. comm.).

Chiles Creek

Chiles Creek originates in Chiles Valley and drains an area of about 20 square miles. The creek has a channel length between the 

headwaters and the mouth of approximately 7.8 miles. Chiles Creek is tributary to Conn Creek via Lake Hennesey and has one 

major tributary, Moore Creek.

In July 1945, the year Hennesey Dam was constructed, DFG sampled Chiles Creek upstream of the mouth of Moore Creek 

and caught O. mykiss to 75 mm in length (Curtis 1945a). In August 1945, several 100 mm O. mykiss were observed during a 

poisoning operation (Curtis 1945b). In September 1945, DFG found that the lower two miles of Chiles Creek were dry, but 

noted numerous O. mykiss upstream (Ott 1945).

In 1946, DFG noted that a moderately large population of trout, from fingerlings to 200 mm in length, was present in the 

tributary streams of Conn Valley Reservoir (Murphy 1949). By 1948, practically no trout were seen in the tributary streams 

(Murphy 1949).
228

Six O. mykiss were collected by DFG from Chiles Creek in April 1947. The fish ranged from 148-320 mm in length. Scale 

analysis demonstrated that they were not hatchery fish (CDFG 1947). The resulting report noted that the presence of large 

numbers of trout fingerlings indicated that steelhead stock had spawned in Chiles Creek that season (Curtis 1947a). A DFG 

note indicated that conservatively, 75,000 O. mykiss YOY were present in three miles of Chiles Creek examined in May 1947 

(Shapovalov 1948).

In August 1947, DFG found no trout at several sites upstream of the Whiskey Crossing Bridge (i.e., two miles upstream of the 

mouth), but found several 150-255 mm O. mykiss immediately downstream of the bridge (Curtis 1947a). In July 1949, thorough 

surveys in this reach revealed no YOY O. mykiss, although a few 150-255 mm O. mykiss were found just downstream of the 

Whiskey Crossing Bridge (CDFG 1950).

In August 1956, DFG visually surveyed Chiles Creek where access permitted, between the mouth and 0.5 mile upstream of the 

headwater fork. A few rainbow trout were seen in the middle flowing portion of the stream (Fisher 1956).

In September 1990, DFG electrofished one site on Chiles Creek along Chiles-Pope Valley Road near Mile Marker 2.75. One O. 

mykiss (150 mm FL) was caught and at least two of the same size were observed but evaded capture (Gray 1990a).

Moore Creek

Moore Creek flows generally south to join Chiles Creek about one and one-half mile east and upstream of Lake Hennessey. The 

creek’s headwaters are east of the town of Angwin and are perennial.

A July 1945 DFG field note reported O. mykiss in Moore Creek approximately 1.5 miles upstream of the Chiles Creek confluence 

(Curtis 1945c). In August 1945, DFG staff observed numerous trout in Moore Creek (Ott 1945).

In September 1990, DFG electrofished sites up- and downstream of a wooden bridge over the creek. A total of 30 O. mykiss were 

caught ranging from 48-146 mm FL (Gray 1990c).

Sage Creek

Sage Creek is tributary to Conn Creek via Lake Hennessey. The creek consists of approximately 5.2 miles of channel.

In June 1940, a DFG visual survey of the entire length of Sage Creek found steelhead (100-125 mm) to be common (Shapovalov 

1940c). In July 1945, DFG siene sampling on Sage Creek approximately four miles upstream of Chiles Creek produced only YOY 

O. mykiss (Curtis 1945a). A subsequent poisoning operation found 104 O. mykiss ranging from 40-65 mm in length, and one 75 

mm individual in an isolated pool (Curtis 1945b).

In 1946, DFG noted that a moderately large population of trout, from fingerlings to 200 mm in length, was present in the 

tributary streams of Conn Valley Reservoir (Murphy 1949). In August 1947, DFG found O. mykiss fingerlings to be fairly 

plentiful in Sage Creek at a reach about two miles upstream of the mouth (Curtis 1947b). By 1948, DFG noted that practically 

no trout were present in the tributary streams (Murphy 1949).
229

In March 1956, DFG received reliable reports that an O. mykiss spawning run occurred up Sage Creek from Lake Hennessey in 

the early spring (Evans 1956). In August 1956, DFG found O. mykiss ranging in size from 125-255 mm to be common in the 

middle section of the creek (Evans et al. 1956). Oncorhynchus mykiss were assumed to be derived from the steelhead stock that 

migrated into the reaches upstream from the lake prior to its filling (Evans et al. 1956).

In September 1990, DFG electrofished Sage Creek near the confluence of its tributary, Fir Canyon Creek. A total of six O. mykiss

were collected from the main channel and the tributary (Gray 1990f).

Leidy caught two O. mykiss (81, 160 mm FL) when he electrofished Sage Creek immediately upstream from the junction of Pope 

Valley and Sage Creek roads in July 1996 (Leidy 2002). 

Bale Slough

Bale Slough is a small Napa River tributary that enters the river from the west in the vicinity of Rutherford. According to DFG, 

Bale Slough serves primarily as a migration corridor for steelhead into and out of Bear Canyon Creek (Elwell 1958a).

In June 1981, DFG visually surveyed the lower one-mile of Bale Slough to locate stranded steelhead. The channel was dry and 

thus no fish were observed (Ambrosins 1981a). Juvenile O. mykiss were observed in Bale Slough in 2004 (J. Koehler pers. comm.).

Bear Canyon Creek

Bear Canyon Creek flows generally east from its headwaters near the Sonoma/Napa county border. The creek is perennial and is 

tributary to Bale Slough.

In October 1958, DFG visually surveyed the lower 4.5 miles of Bear Canyon Creek. Approximately 1.5 miles upstream of 

the confluence with Bale Slough, a 25-foot concrete dam at the Inglenook Winery was identified as a barrier to upstream 

migration. Oncorhynchus mykiss averaging 75 mm in length were fairly common in the 0.5-mile section of the creek with water 

in it downstream of the Inglenook Dam. Also, O. mykiss from 75–150 mm were common throughout the three miles surveyed 

upstream of the dam (Elwell 1958h). The survey noted that this stream was one of the better spawning reaches in the Napa River 

drainage (Elwell 1958h).

In May 1966, DFG surveyed Bear Canyon Creek downstream of the Inglenook dam. Steelhead juveniles at an estimated density 

of 15 per 30 meters were found in the 0.5-mile perennial reach directly downstream of the dam (CDFG 1966).

In September 1975, DFG surveyed the lower 3.3 miles of Bear Canyon Creek and the tributaries in this reach. Oncorhynchus 

mykiss were observed throughout the surveyed reach, but were most abundant upstream of the Inglenook Dam. Oncorhynchus 

mykiss ranged in size from 25–255 mm TL and averaged 75–100 mm (Henry and Van Zandt 1975). Density was estimated at 35 

fish per 30 meters throughout the surveyed section.

In regards to an application to divert water from Bear Valley Creek in 1995, DFG stated that Bear Valley Creek supported a run 

of steelhead trout (Turner 1995). Minimum in-stream flows were required as a condition of approval of the proposed diversion. 

The application was later withdrawn.
230

Sulphur Creek

Sulphur Creek drains an area of about ten square miles and consists of about 4.2 miles of channel (DCE 1999). It is perennial in 

its upper reaches and flows generally east from its headwaters near the Sonoma/Napa county border to join the Napa River east of 

the town of St. Helena.

In August 1941, a DFG survey noted O. mykiss in Sulphur Creek at the McLure Kelley Ranch. Residents reported a steelhead 

run. Stocking was not recommended, presumably because the lower reach was reported to dry up in July before reaching the Napa 

River (Curtis 1941a).

In 1957 the local game warden identified Sulphur Creek as one of the most important steelhead spawning tributaries to the Napa 

River (Elwell 1957b). The warden had observed steelhead in the 1.5 mile reach upstream from the bridge at Highway 29. In 

October 1958, DFG visually surveyed Sulphur Creek from the mouth to the headwaters. Oncorhynchus mykiss ranging from 50-

150 mm long were common in the lower section of the creek. The upper-most portion had fewer trout. The survey report noted 

that the lower portion of the creek was typically dry during the summer (Elwell and Jones 1958).

In August 1969 DFG electrofished Sulphur Creek at Sulphur Canyon Road. Steelhead density was estimated at 170 fish per 30 

meters of stream for the reach. A total of 164 fish were collected, with 35 measured fish having a size range of 33-86 mm FL and 

one larger individual measuring 135 mm (Anderson 1969f).

In May 1980, DFG visually surveyed Sulphur Creek from the mouth to the headwaters, and electrofished four sites. Six O. mykiss

ranging from 39-63 mm in length were caught in St. Helena near the confluence with the Napa River. Two O. mykiss (57 mm 

and 245 mm) were collected in Sulphur Canyon and 17 O. mykiss (33-270 mm) were caught at the headwater fork (Ellison and 

Hobson 1980).

In June 1981, DFG rescued 525 steelhead YOY trapped in a drying, intermittent reach of Sulphur Creek. Another 165 YOY 

steelhead (37-82 mm FL) died due to handling. The largest fish was positively identified as YOY by scale analysis (Ellison 1981b).

In July 1989, DFG electrofished three sites on Sulphur Creek from the White Sulphur Springs Resort to the confluence with Iron 

Mine Creek. All sites had juvenile steelhead measuring approximately 60 mm FL, with one individual at nearly 80 mm FL (Week 

1989).

Ecotrust and FONR carried out surveys in tributaries of the Napa River system in July and August 2001. Relative density of 

steelhead was noted between 1 and 3, with 3 indicating greater than one individual per square meter. Of five Sulphur Creek 

reaches and two reaches in a tributary, three reaches were found to have O. mykiss at density level “1,” while one reach had density 

level “2” (Ecotrust and FONR 2001). Follow-up surveys were performed between June and September 2002. Oncorhynchus mykiss 

were found in numerous Sulphur Creek reaches, including three reaches at density level “3” (Ecotrust and FONR 2002).
231

Heath Canyon Creek

Heath Canyon Creek is tributary to Sulphur Creek. According to staff at the Napa County Resource Conservation District, local 

landowners report the presence of O. mykiss in this stream historically (J. Koehler pers. comm.). A 2001 survey noted juvenile O. 

mykiss in Heath Canyon Creek (J. Koehler pers. comm.).

Iron Mine Creek

Iron Mine Creek is tributary to Sulphur Creek. In July 1989, DFG electrofished the lower 0.1 mile of Iron Mine Creek as well as 

a site on the Marston Vineyard near a water diversion. One O. mykiss (60 mm FL) was found approximately 300 yards upstream 

of the mouth (Week 1989). 

Staff from the Napa County Resource Conservation District report juvenile O. mykiss in the south fork of Sulphur Creek 

(Iron Mine Creek) currently. Snorkel survey and visual observations were made in 2001 and 2002, respectively (J. Koehler 

pers. comm.).

York Creek

York Creek originates on the western side of the Napa Valley and joins the Napa River near the city of St. Helena. St. Helena 

operates diversion facilities in the York Creek channel that divert water into a larger off-channel reservoir. The creek drains about 

six square miles and consists of approximately 7.2 miles of channel, including tributary reaches.

A 1941 DFG report noted anecdotal evidence of trout in York Creek upstream of a 12-foot dam in the middle reach of the creek 

(Curtis 1941b). In 1962, DFG determined that two diversion dams restricted all flow during the critical steelhead egg incubation 

period. A study was recommended to determine adequate flow releases to protect steelhead spawning and whether to require 

provision for fish passage at the dams (Day 1962).

In July 1973, DFG visually surveyed portions of York Creek from the mouth to the second diversion dam. No O. mykiss were 

observed (Nelson and Finlayson 1973). In June 1974, DFG again surveyed York Creek from the mouth to the upper end of 

St. Helena’s reservoir. Both YOY (estimated at over 100 per 30 meters) and age 1+ steelhead (20 per 30 meters) were abundant 

between the Spring Mountain Road Bridge in St. Helena and the upper reservoir (Bruns 1974).

In August 1975, DFG visually surveyed York Creek from the city of St. Helena reservoir upstream to the headwaters. 

Oncorhynchus mykiss juveniles (25-100 mm) believed to be from steelhead decent were observed at approximately 20 per 30 

meters throughout the surveyed reach (Henry 1975).

In June 1981, while locating stranded fish for rescue, DFG observed salmonids in York Creek near the Highway 29 crossing and 

the mouth (Ambrosins and Hams 1981). In April 1986, DFG electrofished a 150 meter reach upstream from the in-channel 

reservoir. A total of ten O. mykiss were caught ranging in size from 92-198 mm (Gray 1986f). The fish were assumed to be 

resident, as the two downstream dams were deemed impassable to steelhead (Gray 1986f).
232

In August 1992, DFG identified one dead O. mykiss in York Creek and discovered evidence of more dead O. mykiss that had been 

consumed by scavengers. The DFG report noted the presence of recent sediment deposition up to 18 inches deep, which likely 

resulted from operations at the city of St. Helena in-channel reservoir (Emig 1992c).

In September 2000, DFG electrofished York Creek downstream of the York dam along Spring Mountain Road. Juvenile steelhead 

were abundant and uniformly distributed throughout the entire reach (Cox 2000). The vast majority was YOY (40-100 mm), 

with lesser numbers of age 1+ (100-140 mm) and still fewer age 2+ and 3+ individuals (140-180 mm). The survey also revealed 

an unusually large number of older O. mykiss (200-250 mm), which was attributed to particularly good physical conditions (e.g., 

shade, pools, food, and instream cover) rather than anadromy (Cox 2000).

Ecotrust and FONR carried out surveys in tributaries of the Napa River system in July and August 2001. Relative density 

of steelhead was noted between 1 and 3, with 3 indicating greater than one individual per square meter. Of seven York 

Creek reaches, two were found to have O. mykiss at density level “1,” while two reaches had density level “2” (Ecotrust and 

FONR 2001).

Bell Canyon Creek (Howell Creek)

Bell Canyon Creek drains approximately 14 square miles. It enters the Napa River about 2.5 miles north of St. Helena. The 

creek historically was a perennial steelhead stream that maintained flow in the headwaters even after numerous diversions caused 

the lower reach to become intermittent. Bell Canyon Reservoir, constructed in 1958, blocked steelhead passage to the upper, 

perennial reaches. The dam is located about two miles upstream from the Napa River confluence.

In February 1957, DFG visually surveyed portions of Bell Canyon Creek accessible by car, from the mouth upstream about 3.5 

miles. No O. mykiss were observed, but residents stated that they had observed many small steelhead in the middle and lower 

sections of the creek in the early part of the year (Elwell 1957a).

In May 1958, DFG visually surveyed Bell Canyon Creek from the headwaters to a point approximately 3.5 miles upstream from 

the mouth. Oncorhynchus mykiss (40-50 mm) were common in the lower portion of the surveyed reach and appeared to be YOY 

(Elwell 1958i). A large population of O. mykiss (100-150 mm) that was deemed to be native stock was observed downstream of a 

natural falls about 5.5 miles upstream of the mouth (Elwell 1958i).

A May 1966 DFG field note identified O. mykiss (40-100 mm) at 5 per 30 meters in a flowing reach of Bell Canyon Creek 

downstream of Bell Canyon Reservoir. In another downstream reach with water in the channel, O. mykiss were estimated at 100 

per 30 meters. In the lower 30 meters of this reach, approximately 100 dead O. mykiss were found (Brackett and Duff 1966).

A 1967 DFG memorandum stated that 2.5 miles of Bell Canyon Creek were available to steelhead prior to construction of Bell 

Canyon Reservoir. The memo noted the obligation by DFG to substantiate their claim for a flow release of 5 cubic feet per second 

from the reservoir (Nokes 1967).

In June 1969, DFG visually surveyed two miles of Bell Canyon Creek from the mouth to the reservoir. Oncorhynchus mykiss (25-

365 mm) were observed in intermittently flowing reaches at densities of 50-100 fish per 30 meters. Maximum density was noted 

immediately upstream of the confluence of the south fork (Howell Creek) (Thompson and Michaels 1969). In July 1969, DFG 
233

conducted an electrofishing survey in the same reach. Steelhead (40-150 mm FL) were estimated at 86 fish per 30 meters at a 

site one mile downstream of the Bell Canyon Dam, and 34 fish per 30 meters at the confluence with the south fork. The report 

conservatively estimated a steelhead standing crop of 4,100 fish (Anderson 1969e).

A 1970 DFG memorandum regarding St. Helena water rights states that Bell Canyon Creek at that time supported an average 

annual run of approximately 40 to 50 adult steelhead. The memo included an estimate of run size prior to construction of the 

reservoir of about 100 adult fish (Greenwald 1970).

In July 1975, DFG visually surveyed Bell Canyon Creek from the mouth to the reservoir. Intermittently flowing reaches had O. 

mykiss from 13-100 mm in length, at approximately 25 fish per 30 meters (Coleman and Van Zandt 1975). In April 1978, DFG 

investigated a fish kill downstream of the Bell Canyon Reservoir chlorination facility. Staff found 106 dead YOY steelhead (mean 

length 57 mm) and one larger individual (~200 mm) (Cox 1978).

In July 1981, DFG observed steelhead juveniles at the Silverado Trail and the Glen Mountain Lane crossings, but found the mile 

of channel below the reservoir to be dry (Harris and Ambrosins 1981a). In June 1987, DFG visually surveyed Bell Canyon Creek 

from the mouth to the reservoir. Oncorhynchus mykiss were observed averaging 50 mm in length. Natural propagation of O. mykiss

was not considered “good” in the system (Montoya 1987a).

In August 1990, DFG electrofished Bell Canyon Creek sites to determine if the reach upstream of the reservoir contained O. 

mykiss. The survey area upstream from Angwin contained pools suitable as trout habitat, but no O. mykiss were observed (Gray 

1990h).

Ecotrust and FONR carried out surveys in tributaries of the Napa River system in July and August 2001. Relative density of O. 

mykiss was noted between 1 and 3, with 3 indicating greater than one individual per square meter. Of four Bell Canyon Creek 

reaches, one was found to have O. mykiss at density level “1” (Ecotrust and FONR 2001).

Mill Creek

Mill Creek consists of about 3.2 miles of channel draining about 1.75 square miles. The creek enters the Napa River about three 

miles north of St. Helena.

In July 1965, DFG visually surveyed the length of Mill Creek between the mouth and Stone Hill Winery. The stream was dry at 

the mouth, but the flowing middle reach had 150-200 O. mykiss fingerlings per 30 meters (Culley and Fox 1965). Survey notes 

from May 1966 indicated that DFG found O. mykiss (25-175 mm) at densities of 25-50 fish per 30 meters throughout the length 

of Mill Creek (Brackett and Duff 1966).

In August 1978, DFG visually surveyed Mill Creek from its mouth to one mile downstream of the headwaters. Oncorhynchus 

mykiss averaging 50 mm in length were observed with estimated densities of 25-50 fish per 30 meters in the upper and lower 

surveyed reaches, and 5-10 fish per 30 meters in the middle reach (Lee and Namba 1978a).

Ecotrust and FONR carried out surveys in tributaries of the Napa River system in July and August 2001. Relative density of 

steelhead was noted between 1 and 3, with 3 indicating greater than one individual per square meter. Of nine Mill Creek reaches, 
234

three were found to have O. mykiss at density level “1,” while two reaches had density level “2” and one reach had level “3” 

(Ecotrust and FONR 2001). Follow-up surveys were performed between June and September 2002. Oncorhynchus mykiss were 

found in numerous Mill Creek reaches, including two reaches at density level “3” (Ecotrust and FONR 2002).

Ritchie Creek

Ritchie Creek drains an area of 2.8 square miles and consists of approximately 3.5 miles of channel. The creek joins the Napa 

River approximately three miles south of the city of Calistoga.

In March 1964, DFG responded to reports of adult steelhead attempting to jump a diversion dam in Bothe-Napa Valley State 

Park. Up to ten adult steelhead had been seen by park officials at any one time attempting to pass the obstacle. Staff from DFG 

found an adult male (510 mm) and female (660 mm) that were moved upstream of the dam (Jones 1964b). In December 1965, 

DFG requested the State Division of Beaches and Parks remove or modify the dam for fish passage (Greenwald 1965b).

In July 1967, DFG visually surveyed Ritchie Creek between the mouth and the headwaters. Upstream of the eight foot diversion 

dam, juvenile steelhead (50 -75 mm) were estimated at a density of five individuals per 30 meters. Upstream from the Highway 

29 bridge, steelhead density was determined to be10 per 30 meters, and six measured fish ranged from 50-140 mm. Near the 

mouth, steelhead were estimated at 25 fish per 30 meters in pools, with the largest individual measuring approximately 250 mm 

(Thompson 1967d).

In August 1969, DFG electrofished Ritchie Creek at two locations. At a site just upstream of Highway 29, 40 O. mykiss were 

caught (43-152 mm FL), at an estimated density of 52 individuals per 30 meters. Upstream of the diversion dam, 56 O. mykiss

were caught, with lengths measuring from 46-79 mm excluding a 102 mm and a 122 mm fish. Density upstream of the dam was 

estimated at 71 fish per 30 meters. Based on the sampling results, a standing crop of 7,000 juvenile steelhead was estimated for 

Ritchie Creek (Anderson 1969d).

In October 1973, DFG visually surveyed Ritchie Creek from the mouth to the headwaters. Steelhead from 75–150 mm were 

observed at densities of 15 fish per 30 meters downstream of the diversion dam, and 40 fish per 30 meters upstream of the 

dam (Finlayson 1973). According to DFG, the creek at that time offered good spawning and nursery areas for steelhead trout 

(Finlayson 1973).

In July 1978, DFG visually surveyed Ritchie Creek from its mouth to the headwaters. Steelhead 50–100 mm in length were 

observed in the upper portions of the creek. Estimated population density was five fish per 30 meters (Lee and Namba 1978b).

In May 1984, DFG visually surveyed Ritchie Creek from its mouth to the headwaters. Juvenile O. mykiss were observed from 

immediately upstream of its confluence with the Napa River, to the upper reaches of the stream (Emig 1984d). In addition to 

numerous 40-50 mm juveniles attributed to a recent stocking event, additional O. mykiss ranging from 25–150 mm were believed 

to indicate that recent spawning of anadromous steelhead had occurred (Emig 1984d).

In December 1989, DFG electrofished Ritchie Creek upstream of the diversion dam within Bothe Napa Valley State Park. A total 

of seven O. mykiss were caught ranging from 57–148 mm FL (Gray 1990e).
235

A 1993 correspondence states the intention of California Department of Parks and Recreation in cooperation with DFG to 

remove the diversion dam on Ritchie Creek. The removal was to make an estimated two miles of spawning and rearing habitat 

available to steelhead (Hunter and Getty 1993).

Ecotrust and FONR carried out surveys in tributaries of the Napa River system in July and August 2001. Relative density of 

steelhead was noted between 1 and 3, with 3 indicating greater than one individual per square meter. Of seven Ritchie Creek 

reaches, three were found to have O. mykiss at density level “1,” while three reaches had density level “2” (Ecotrust and FONR 

2001). Follow-up surveys were performed between June and September 2002. Oncorhynchus mykiss were found in numerous 

Ritchie Creek reaches, including four reaches at density level “3” (Ecotrust and FONR 2002).

Dutch Henry Creek

Dutch Henry Creek consists of about 4.5 miles of stream channel and enters the Napa River near the midway point between 

Calistoga and St. Helena. It is characterized as having intermittent flow and has one notable tributary, Biter Creek.

In November 1958, DFG visually surveyed Dutch Henry Creek from the mouth to its headwaters. Although the lower channel 

was completely dry, O. mykiss averaging 75-125 mm in length were present in the intermittent, spring-fed pools in the middle and 

upper sections of the drainage (Elwell 1958j). A 1958 DFG evaluation stated that all of the approximately four miles of stream in 

the Dutch Henry Creek drainage was used by steelhead (Elwell 1958b). The evaluation noted that, except for intermittent springs 

in the upper portion of the drainage, the entire stream was dry in the summer-fall months (Elwell 1958b).

In June 1981, DFG visually surveyed 1.8 miles of Dutch Henry Creek upstream from its mouth. The channel was completely 

dry and no fish were found (Harris and Ambrosins 1981d). On two occasions in February 1987, DFG electrofished the creek 

immediately upstream and downstream of the Silverado Trail. During the first sampling, four O. mykiss were caught, ranging 

from 150-200 mm FL in size. The second sampling produced several O. mykiss, ranging in length from 50-75 mm. In the week 

between the sampling events, stream flow decreased from 3-4 cubic feet per second to 0 cubic feet per second (Gray 1987a). Staff 

of the Napa County Resource Conservation District reports observations of O. mykiss in Dutch Henry Creek in 2001 (J. Koehler 

pers. comm.).

Nash Creek

Nash Creek is tributary to the Napa River and drains a portion of the western slopes of the Napa Valley. Flow is intermittent, with 

springs present in the upper reaches.

In July 1965, DFG visually surveyed the approximately two-mile length of Nash Creek and found it completely dry (Culley and 

Fox 1965). The DFG surveyor stated there were no spawning or nursery areas in the creek.

In May 1974, DFG visually surveyed Nash Creek from the mouth to a diversion dam approximately 0.7 miles upstream. With 

the exception of the intermittent reaches adjacent to springs, the channel was dry. No fish were observed, but the DFG surveyor 

speculated that prior to water diversions, Dutch Henry Creek was capable of supporting steelhead runs (Lee 1974).
236

Diamond Mountain Creek

Diamond Mountain Creek is tributary to St. Helena Reservoir and consists of about 1.5 miles of channel. Both spawning and 

rearing habitats for O. mykiss have been identified in the creek (Culley and Fox 1965).

Ecotrust and FONR carried out surveys in tributaries of the Napa River system in July and August 2001. Relative density of 

steelhead was noted between 1 and 3, with 3 indicating greater than one individual per square meter. Diamond Mountain Creek 

was found to have O. mykiss at level “1” density (Ecotrust and FONR 2001).

Simmons Creek

Simmons Creek consists of about 3.5 miles of channel and joins the Napa River approximately one mile southeast of the town of 

Calistoga. Its headwaters are on the slopes of the Napa Valley northeast of Calistoga.

In November 1958, DFG visually surveyed the lower reaches of Simmons Creek by car and the upper reaches on foot. No fish 

were observed. The local game warden reported he had never seen steelhead in Simmons Creek. The DFG surveyor suggested the 

absence of fish was the result of the stream’s tendency to become dry as early as late April (Elwell 1958m). In a 1958 letter, DFG 

stated that two miles of Simmons Creek were utilized by spawning steelhead (Elwell 1958d).

In June 1981, DFG visually surveyed the lower 1.8 miles of Simmons Creek for the purpose of rescuing steelhead stranded by low 

flows. Small numbers of O. mykiss were observed in pools downstream of a spring located approximately 0.5 miles upstream of the 

mouth (Ambrosins and Harris 1981).

Cyrus Creek

Cyrus Creek is tributary to Porter Creek. It consists of about 1.75 miles of channel. The creeks’ confluence is located 

approximately one mile west of Calistoga. A steelhead barrier is presented by the Calistoga water supply reservoir on the creek 0.2 

miles upstream of the Porter Creek confluence (Jones 1964c).

In January 1964, DFG visually surveyed Cyrus Creek from the mouth to the headwaters. Oncorhynchus mykiss (65-100 mm) were 

observed in bedrock areas at about 5-8 per 30 meters. Propagation and conditions were considered successful enough to warrant 

protection of flows and to consider modifying a diversion dam to allow steelhead migration (Jones 1964c).

In June 1981, DFG visually surveyed the lower 1.2 miles of Cyrus Creek again, finding surface water only in standing pools near 

the mouth. No O. mykiss (or any other fish) were seen (Harris and Ambrosins 1981c).

Leidy found O. mykiss at two locations electrofished on Cyrus Creek in July and August 1997 (Leidy 2002). Immediately 

downstream of Calistoga’s old water supply reservoir he rescued seven O. mykiss (111-195 mm FL) from an isolated pool. At 501 

Petrified Forest Road Leidy caught ten O. mykiss (47-250 mm) in a 30-meter reach (Leidy 2002).
237

Ecotrust and FONR carried out surveys in tributaries of the Napa River system in July and August 2001. Two Cyrus Creek 

reaches were surveyed, and O. mykiss were not observed (Ecotrust and FONR 2001). Follow-up surveys were performed between 

June and September 2002. Oncorhynchus mykiss were found in four Cyrus Creek reaches (Ecotrust and FONR 2002).

Garnett Creek

Garnett Creek originates on the northeast side of the Napa Valley, north of Calistoga. It drains approximately six square miles of 

the southern slopes of Mount Saint Helena and The Palisades.

In June 1970, DFG visually surveyed Garnett Creek from the mouth to 1.5 miles upstream of the Highway 29 Bridge. 

Oncorhynchus mykiss were observed ranging in size from 50-180 mm. Fish were present in intermittent and flowing reaches at 

densities of approximately 40 per 30 meters in the upper reaches, and 10 per 30 meters in the lower reaches. Residents told the 

DFG surveyors that springs provided perennial flow in the headwaters (Albert et al. 1970).

In May 1981, DFG rescued 1,189 YOY steelhead from eight isolated pools in Garnett Creek. An additional108 steelhead died in 

the process. Oncorhynchus mykiss ranged in size from 40-70 mm FL (Ellison 1981a).

In July 1984, DFG visually surveyed Garnett Creek from just downstream of Highway 29 to the Old Toll Road crossing. 

Although much of the streambed was dry, steelhead were abundant in pools at all sites where water was found. Steelhead typically 

ranged from 50-75 mm TL, with one 150 mm trout observed (Emig 1984a).

Ecotrust and FONR carried out surveys in tributaries of the Napa River system in July and August 2001. Relative density of 

steelhead was noted between 1 and 3, with 3 indicating greater than one individual per square meter. Of four Garnett Creek 

reaches, one was found to have O. mykiss at density level “1” (Ecotrust and FONR 2001).

Jericho Canyon Creek

Jericho Canyon Creek drains an area of about one square mile. It enters Garnett Creek approximately 0.25 miles upstream from 

Highway 29.

In July 1970, DFG visually surveyed approximately two miles of Jericho Canyon Creek upstream from the mouth. The channel 

was dry or intermittent for approximately 0.5 miles upstream of the confluence with Garnett Creek. Oncorhynchus mykiss (50-330 

mm) were found downstream of a series of falls located about 0.5 miles upstream of the Old Toll Road Bridge. Densities were 

estimated at 30 fish per 30 meters in the middle sections and10 fish per 30 meters in the upper sections (Albert and Thompson 

1970).

In July 1984, DFG visually surveyed Jericho Canyon Creek from its mouth to one mile upstream of the Highway 29 crossing. 

The lower section of the stream was dry, but juvenile steelhead (50-75 mm FL) at an estimated density of 200 fish per 30 meters 

were observed at RM 1.5 downstream of an impassable barrier. The barrier was a 15-foot chute located about 0.5 miles upstream 

of the Old Toll Road crossing. No fish were observed in the approximately two miles of the survey area upstream of the chute. 

Numerous other potentially impassable barriers were found upstream of the chute (Emig 1984b).
238

Ecotrust and FONR carried out surveys in tributaries of the Napa River system in July and August 2001. Relative density of 

steelhead was noted between 1 and 3, with 3 indicating greater than one individual per square meter. Of three Jericho Canyon 

Creek reaches, one was found to have O. mykiss at density level “3” (Ecotrust and FONR 2001).

Kimball Canyon Creek

The Napa River becomes Kimball Canyon Creek above St. Helena Reservoir. Kimball Canyon Creek consists of about 5.5 miles 

of channel draining the area north and slightly west of Calistoga. St. Helena Reservoir, operated by the St. Helena Water District, 

is located approximately four miles upstream of the mouth. This reservoir controls flows into the creek and is a complete barrier 

to upstream migration.

In May 1957, DFG visually surveyed points accessible by car on Kimball Canyon Creek. A few fingerling steelhead (25-40 mm) 

were observed and were deemed to have originated from a natural population. The game warden observed that steelhead used 

Kimball Canyon Creek about one in every four years, as flows permitted (Allen 1957).

In July 1965, DFG visually surveyed a headwaters tributary to the Napa River west of Kimball Canyon Creek from the mouth 

to the headwaters. Surveyors estimated the density of O. mykiss fingerlings at 100-200 fish per 30 meters of stream (Culley and 

Fox 1965). 

Leidy electrofished Kimball Canyon Creek at two locations in July 1997. He caught no O. mykiss in a pool at the mouth of the 

creek below the elevation of the full reservoir (Leidy 2002). However, approximately 0.2 miles upstream he found 12 O. mykiss

(50-242 mm FL) in a five-meter riffle-pool sequence.

Assessment: In 1962, DFG called the Napa River “the most important steelhead stream in the counties bordering San Francisco 

Bay” (CDFG 1962, p. 1). Steelhead historically reproduced in most of the tributary and headwater drainages of the Napa River, 

although they now are reduced substantially in abundance. We are not aware of recent estimates of the size of the Napa River 

steelhead run. However, previous estimates place the historical run in the range of 6,000 to 8,000 individuals (Anderson 1972; 

USFWS and CDFG 1968).

In a 1940 DFG report, Shapovalov observed that the Napa River and its tributaries typically had very low water in the dry season, 

and that the carrying capacity of these streams for trout was filled by naturally propagated steelhead (Shapovalov 1940b). More 

recent DFG assessments of the Napa River watershed also indicated that the main limiting factor for steelhead production in the 

drainage was the lack of adequate nursery areas.

Water diversions from the basin that affect over-summering habitat in quality or extent, therefore, would be expected to directly 

impact the Napa River system O. mykiss population. In 1963, DFG noted, “With the increasing water development in the 

drainage, nursery areas are disappearing fast” (Robinson 1963, p. 1). A 1969 DFG paper noted that Dry Creek provided the 

greatest amount of nursery habitat in the Napa River watershed, and that Redwood Creek and Sulphur Creek also were important 

contributors to the steelhead standing crop (Anderson 1969f). In 1962, DFG listed these three creeks, as well as Soda Creek, as 

“major” spawning areas (CDFG 1962). Diversions from these drainages are particularly important to steelhead abundance.
239

Recent surveys carried out by the Friends of the Napa River and Ecotrust indicated that O. mykiss are still present in numerous 

Napa River watershed tributaries, with the highest densities typically recorded in Napa Valley’s west-side tributaries such as 

Redwood and Dry creeks (Ecotrust and FONR 2001). Oncorhynchus mykiss density in Sulphur Creek appears to be reduced 

substantially from historical levels.

The Napa River drainage possibly remains the most important steelhead fishery resource for the San Francisco Estuary, although 

on-going water development for agricultural uses poses a serious threat to this status. Recovery strategies for Napa River steelhead 

must address instream flow provisions in order to be successful.

Fagan Creek Watershed

Fagan Creek issues into the Napa River tidal slough. A 15-foot drop on the south side of the Highway 12 crossing may serve as a 

barrier to migration.

Fagan Creek

In September 1981, two Fagan Creek sites were sampled by dip net as part of a fish distribution study. No O. mykiss were found 

(Leidy 1984). Ecotrust and FONR surveyed Fagan Creek between May and September 2002. Oncorhynchus mykiss were not 

observed in Fagan Creek reaches (Ecotrust and FONR 2002).

Assessment: Insufficient information is available to assess the historical and current status of Fagan Creek as a resource 

contributing to salmonid populations. Recent surveys indicate that the creek system likely is not used by anadromous fish.

American Canyon Creek Watershed

American Canyon Creek issues into the Napa River tidal slough. It drains the area immediately north of the city of Vallejo.

American Canyon Creek

Two American Canyon Creek sites were sampled with dip nets as part of a fish distribution study in September 1981. No O. 

mykiss were found at either the American Canyon Road or the Elliot Road sampling sites (Leidy 1984).

A 30-meter reach of American Canyon Creek was sampled by electrofishing in October 1997. Oncorhynchus mykiss was not found 

(Leidy 2002). Ecotrust and FONR surveyed the north and east forks of American Canyon Creek between May and September 

2002. Oncorhynchus mykiss were not observed in American Canyon Creek reaches (Ecotrust and FONR 2002).

Assessment: Insufficient information is available to assess the historical status of American Canyon Creek as a resource 

contributing to salmonid populations. Recent surveys indicate that the creek system likely is not used by anadromous fish.
240

Watershed Stream/ Tributary

Yrs. Surveyed/ Quant. Data

Max. Period of Record

Data

Type

Life Hist. Stage/No. Yrs. Data

Anad.Life-CyclePossible

O. mykiss Evidence 

of Pop. Decline

Current Pop.Status

References(Pers. Comm.) Hist. Current

Huichica Creek Huichica 11/7 1970- 2002 1, 2, 3 J/5; R/3 Y DF DF Y 1 46, 47, 91, 102, 115, 133, 143, 152

Napa River Napa River 11/4

1961- 

97

1998

0. 1, 2, 3 J/3; S/1; M/2 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3

9, 10, 14, 22, 33, 41, 42, 88, 103, 144, 146, 154, 179

Carneros 4/1 1958- 2002 0, 1, 3 R/1; M/1 Y DF DF Y 1 44, 46, 62, 89, 117

Suscol 6/4 1949- 2002 0, 1, 2, 3 J/3; S/1; R/1; M/1 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 19, 26, 46, 144, 161

Tulucay 4/2 1958- 2001 1, 2, 3 J/2; R/2 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 44, 45, 61, 70, 72, 121

Murphy 4/4 1968- 2001 1, 2, 3 J/3; R/2; M/1 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 45, 77, 107, 135

Spencer 2/2 2001- 2002 3 - Y DF DF - 1 45, 46

Napa 3/1 1958- 2001 1, 2, 3 - Y DF DF Y 1 44, 45, 66, 144

Browns Valley 2/0 2001 1 - Y DF DF - 1 45, 67, 145

Redwood 12/8 1958- 2002 1, 2, 3 J/10; R/4; M/2 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 11, 45, 46, 66, 74, 90, 94, 112, 127, 134, 144, 149, 171

Pickle Canyon 6/5 1966- 2002 1, 2, 3 J/4; R/1 Y DF DF Y 1 6, 18, 45, 46, 126, 134, 170

Milliken 15/9 1940- 2002 1, 2, 3 J/8; R/4; M/3 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 5, 21, 44-46, 51, 81, 87, 123, 144, 148, 153, 172, 175

Table IX-2. Distribution status of O. mykiss in San Francisco Estuary streams of Napa County, Californiaa
241

Watershed Stream/ Tributary

Yrs. Surveyed/ Quant. Data

Max. Period of Record

Data

Type

Life Hist. Stage/No. Yrs. Data

Anad.Life-CyclePossible

O. mykiss Evidence 

of Pop. Decline

Current Pop.Status

References(Pers. Comm.) Hist. Current

Sarco 5/3 1990- 2002 1, 2, 3 J/1; R/1 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 45, 46, 110, 144, 150, 151

Camp 1/0 1940 1 J/1; R/1 N DF UNK Y 0 167

Salvador 

Outfall 

Channel

2/0 1977 1987 1, 2 M/1 UNK DF UNK Y 0 17

Soda 7/4 1940- 2002 1, 2 J/3; R/1; M/2 UNK DF DF Y 1 46, 50, 60, 69, 92, 95, 96, 166

Dry 7/7 1969- 2002 1, 2, 3 J/6; R/2; M/1 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 9, 16, 44-46, 53, 78, 99, 144

Hopper 3/0 1976 2001 0, 1, 3 M/1 UNK DF PB Y 0 45, 120, 159 (1)

Hinman 4/1

1966- 

84

1987

1, 2, 3 J/2 UNK DF PS Y 0 105, 125, 177 (1)

Segassia 

Canyon 1/1 2002 1 - UNK DF DF - 1 46

Wing Canyon 1/1 2002 1 - UNK DF DF - 1 46

Campbell 2/1 1996- 1997 0, 1, 2 J/2 Y DF DF - 1, 2 80, 144

Mont-gomery 2/1 2001 1, 3 - Y DF DF - 1 45, 128

Conn 9/3

1945- 

94

2001

1, 2, 3 J/4; R/5 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 30, 44, 45, 86, 100, 155, 158
242

Watershed Stream/ Tributary

Yrs. Surveyed/ Quant. Data

Max. Period of Record

Data

Type

Life Hist. Stage/No. Yrs. Data

Anad.Life-CyclePossible

O. mykiss Evidence 

of Pop. Decline

Current Pop.Status

References(Pers. Comm.) Hist. Current

Rector 4/4 1985- 2004 2, 3 J/4; S/1; R/3 UNK DF DF Y 1, 2 44, 76, 93, 101 (1)

Chiles 7/2 1945- 90 1, 2, 3 J/5; R/3 N DF PB Y 0 24, 25, 36, 37, 39, 85, 104, 155, 158, 168

Moore 2/1 1945- 90 1, 2 J/1 N DF PS Y 1 38, 106, 158

Sage 8/2 1940- 96 0, 1, 2, 3 J/6; R/2 N DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 36, 37, 40, 82, 83, 109, 144, 155, 165

Bale Slough 2/1 2004 1, 3 J/1 Y DF DF - 1, 2 4, 56 (1)

Bear Canyon 3/2 1958- 75 1 J/3; R/1 UNK DF PB Y 1 28, 63, 124, 174

Sulphur 7/4 1941- 2001 0, 1, 2, 3 J/5; R/1; M/2 Y DF DF Y 1 14, 34, 44-46, 49, 52, 55, 71, 178

Heath 

Canyon 2/1 2001 0, 3 J/1 Y DF DF - 1, 2 (1)

Iron Mine 1/1 1989 2 J/1 Y DF DF Y 1 178 (1)

York 9/4 1941- 2001 0, 1, 2, 3 J/4; R/2 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 7, 23, 31, 35, 43, 45, 79, 97, 122, 178

Bell Canyon 11/5 1957- 2001 0, 1 J/8; R/2; M/1 Y DF DF Y 1 13, 29, 32, 45, 54, 64, 66, 111, 114, 116, 147, 157, 169

Mill 4/4 1965- 2002 1, 3 J/2 Y DF DF Y 1 22, 33, 45, 46, 141
243

Watershed Stream/ Tributary

Yrs. Surveyed/ Quant. Data

Max. Period of Record

Data

Type

Life Hist. Stage/No. Yrs. Data

Anad.Life-CyclePossible

O. mykiss Evidence 

of Pop. Decline

Current Pop.Status

References(Pers. Comm.) Hist. Current

Ritchie 9/8 1965- 2002 1, 2, 3 J/6; R/1; M/1 UNK DF DF Y 1 12, 45, 46, 75, 84, 108, 113, 129, 131, 142, 173

Dutch Henry 4/2 1958- 2001 1, 2, 3 J/3; R/1 Y DF DF Y 1, 2 57, 65, 98, 119 (1)

Nash 2/0 0 1974 1 - N PS NP - 0 33, 140

Diamond 

Mountain 2/2 1965 1, 3 J/1 N PB DF Y 1 45, 140

Simmons 2/0 1958- 81 1 - UNK DF PS Y 0 8, 59, 68

Cyrus 5/3 1964- 2002 1, 2, 3 J/2; R/1 UNK DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 45, 46, 118, 132, 144

Garnett 4/4 1970- 2001 1, 3 J/3; R/1 Y DF DF Y 1 1, 45, 48, 72

Jericho 

Canyon 3/3 1970- 2001 1 J/2; R/1 Y DF DF Y 1 2, 45, 73

Kimball 

Canyon 4/2 1957- 97 1, 2 J/2; R/1; M/1 N DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 3, 33, 144

Fagan Creek Fagan 2/0 0 2002 3 - N PS NP - 0 46, 143

American Canyon Creek

American 

Canyon 3/0 0 2002 2, 3 - N UNK NP - 0 46, 143, 144

a Table headings and codes are defined in the Methods section of this report.
244

1. Albert, B., W. E. Jones, and J. Thompson, CDFG. 1970. Stream Survey Garnett Creek. Report dated June 16.

2. Albert, B., and J. Thompson, CDFG. 1970. Stream Survey unnamed tributary to Garnett Creek (Jericho Canyon 

Creek). Report dated July 1.

3. Allen, J. T., CDFG. 1957. Stream Survey Kimball Canyon Creek. Report dated May 16.

4. Ambrosins, J., CDFG. 1981a. Memo to file. Re: Bale Slough, Napa County. Dated June 24.

5. Ambrosins, J., CDFG. 1981b. Memo to file. Re: Milliken Creek, Napa County. Dated June 26.

6. Ambrosins, J., CDFG. 1981c. Memo to file. Re: Pickle Canyon Creek, Napa County. Dated June 15.

7. Ambrosins, J., and L. Hams, CDFG. 1981. Memo to file. Re: York Creek, Napa County. Dated June 23.

8. Ambrosins, J., and L. Harris, CDFG. 1981. Memo to file. Re: Simmons Canyon Creek, Napa County. Dated June 23.

9. Anderson, K. R., CDFG. 1969a. Field Note: Napa River. Report dated July 28-August 8.

10. Anderson, K. R., CDFG. 1969b. Field Note: Napa River. Report dated August 8.

11. Anderson, K. R., CDFG. 1969c. Field Note: Redwood Creek. Report dated October 1.

12. Anderson, K. R., CDFG. 1969d. Field Note: Ritchie Creek. Report dated August 7.

13. Anderson, K. R., CDFG. 1969e. Fish Population Sampling, Field Note Bell Canyon Creek, Napa County. Report 

dated July 18.

14. Anderson, K. R., CDFG. 1969f. Steelhead Resource, Napa River Drainage, Napa County. Report dated December 23.

15. Anderson, K. R. 1972. Report to the State Water Resources Control Board summarizing the position of the Department 

of Fish and Game on water application 23308, et al, Napa River drainage, Napa County, California. CDFG.

16. Baker, P. H., CDFG. 1981. Letter to M. G. Carl. Dated July 8.

17. Baracco, A., CDFG. 1977. Field Note: unnamed tributary to Napa River. Report dated March 23.

18. Baracco, A., CDFG. 1978. Field Note: Pickle Creek, Napa County. Report dated May 10 and 11.

19. Berry, E. 1949. Letter to CDFG. Re: Landowner request to build check dams for juvenile steelhead habitat on Suscol 

Creek. Dated June 6.

20. Brackett, G. K., CDFG. 1966a. Field Note: Kimball Canyon Creek. Report dated February 14.

21. Brackett, G. K., CDFG. 1966b. Stream Survey Map. Report dated May 18.

22. Brackett, G. K., and D. Duff, CDFG. 1966. Stream Survey Map. Report dated May 19.

23. Bruns, J., CDFG. 1974. Stream Survey York Creek. Report dated June 13.

24. CDFG. 1947. Letter to L. Shapovalov. Re: Fish collected April 19 from Chiles Creek, tributary to Conn Valley 

Reservoir, Napa County. Dated May 5.

25. CDFG. 1950. Memo to G. I. Murphy. Re: Chiles Creek, Napa County, California. Dated January 4.

26. CDFG. 1955. Stream Survey Suscol Creek. Report dated January 28.

27. CDFG. 1962. Fish and wildlife of the Napa River drainage. CDFG, San Francisco.

28. CDFG, CDFG. 1966. Field Note: Bear Canyon Creek. Report dated May 24.

29. Coleman, M., and M. S. Van Zandt, CDFG. 1975. Stream Survey Bell Canyon Creek. Report dated July 17.

30. Cox, B., CDFG. 1979. Letter to T. Belt. Re: Conn Creek, Napa County. Dated April 19.

31. Cox, B., CDFG. 2000. Field Note: York Creek, Napa County. Report dated September 29.

32. Cox, W. G., CDFG. 1978. Memo to file. Re: Fish kill in Bell Canyon Creek, Napa County. Dated May 8.

33. Culley, C., and B. Fox, CDFG. 1965. Field Note. Report dated July 2.

34. Curtis, B., CDFG. 1941a. Stream Survey Sulphur Springs Creek. Report dated August 23.

References
245

35. Curtis, B., CDFG. 1941b. Stream Survey York Creek. Report dated August 23.

36. Curtis, B., CDFG. 1945a. Conn Valley Dam, Napa County, preliminary report No. 1. Report dated August 3.

37. Curtis, B., CDFG. 1945b. Conn Valley Dam, Napa County, preliminary report No. 2. Report dated August 13.

38. Curtis, B., CDFG. 1945c. Field Note: Chiles Creek. Report dated July 27.

39. Curtis, B., CDFG. 1947a. Field Note (supplementary sheet): Chiles Creek. Report dated August 18.

40. Curtis, B., CDFG. 1947b. Field Note: Sage Creek. Report dated August 18.

41. Day, J. S., CDFG. 1961a. Stream Survey. Report dated June 9 & 10.

42. Day, J. S., CDFG. 1961b. Stream Survey Napa River. Report dated June 22 & 23.

43. Day, J. S., CDFG. 1962. Letter to C. K. Fisher. Re: Stream flow releases - York Creek, Napa County. Dated March 5.

44. DCE. 1999. Napa River/Napa Creek flood reduction project: final supplemental environmental impact statement/

environmental impact report. USACE, Napa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District.

45. Ecotrust, and FONR. 2001. Results of Hankin-Reeves standard uncalibrated O. mykiss survey of Napa River tributaries.

46. Ecotrust, and FONR. 2002. Results of Hankin-Reeves standard uncalibrated O. mykiss survey of Napa River tributaries, 

Portland, OR.

47. Ellison, J., CDFG. 1980. Stream Survey Huichica Creek. Report dated January 24.

48. Ellison, J., CDFG. 1981a. Letter to file. Re: Steelhead rescue from Garnett Creek, Napa County. Dated June 15.

49. Ellison, J., CDFG. 1981b. Memo to file. Re: Steelhead rescue from Sulphur Creek, Napa County. Dated June 16.

50. Ellison, J., and T. Carnine, CDFG. 1980. Stream Survey Soda Creek. Report dated May 21.

51. Ellison, J., T. Carnine, and S. Hobson, CDFG. 1980. Stream Survey Milliken Creek. Report dated April-May.

52. Ellison, J., and S. Hobson, CDFG. 1980. Stream Survey Sulphur Creek. Report dated May 23.

53. Ellison, J. P., CDFG. 1981c. Steelhead size distribution graph. Report dated May and June.

54. Elwell, R. F., CDFG. 1957a. Stream Survey Bell Canyon Creek. Report dated February 6.

55. Elwell, R. F., CDFG. 1957b. Letter to W. A. Evans. Re: Sulphur Creek, Napa County - Gravel washing operations. 

Dated December 6.

56. Elwell, R. F., CDFG. 1958a. Field Note: Bear Canyon Creek. Report dated October 19.

57. Elwell, R. F., CDFG. 1958b. Memo to C. K. Fisher. Re: Napa River Watershed project SWS #41 - Dutch Henry Creek, 

Napa County. Dated November 17.

58. Elwell, R. F., CDFG. 1958c. Memo to C. K. Fisher. Re: Napa River Watershed project SWS #41 - Milliken Creek, 

Napa County. Dated November 17.

59. Elwell, R. F., CDFG. 1958d. Napa River Watershed project SWS #41 - Simmons Creek, Napa County. Report dated 

November 17.

60. Elwell, R. F., CDFG. 1958e. Napa River Watershed project SWS #41 - Soda Creek, Napa County. Report dated 

November 17.

61. Elwell, R. F., CDFG. 1958f. Memo to C. K. Fisher. Re: Napa River Watershed project SWS #41 - Tulucay Creek, Napa 

County. Dated November 17.

62. Elwell, R. F., CDFG. 1958g. Stream Survey. Report dated November 15.

63. Elwell, R. F., CDFG. 1958h. Stream Survey Bear Canyon Creek. Report dated October 19.

64. Elwell, R. F., CDFG. 1958i. Stream Survey Bell Canyon Creek. Report dated May 14.

65. Elwell, R. F., CDFG. 1958j. Stream Survey Dutch Henry Creek. Report dated November 16.
246

66. Elwell, R. F., CDFG. 1958k. Stream Survey Napa Creek North Branch. Report dated November 14.

67. Elwell, R. F., CDFG. 1958l. Stream Survey Napa Creek South Branch. Report dated November 15.

68. Elwell, R. F., CDFG. 1958m. Stream Survey Simmons Creek. Report dated November 14.

69. Elwell, R. F., CDFG. 1958n. Stream Survey Soda Creek. Report dated November 16.

70. Elwell, R. F., CDFG. 1958o. Stream Survey Tulucay Creek. Report dated November 13.

71. Elwell, R. F., and W. E. Jones, CDFG. 1958. Stream Survey Sulfur Creek. Report dated October 28.

72. Emig, J. W., CDFG. 1984a. Stream Survey Garnett Creek. Report dated July 20.

73. Emig, J. W., CDFG. 1984b. Stream Survey Jericho Canyon Creek. Report dated July 20 and 24.

74. Emig, J. W., CDFG. 1984c. Stream Survey Redwood Creek. Report dated October - November.

75. Emig, J. W., CDFG. 1984d. Stream Survey Ritchie Creek. Report dated May 11.

76. Emig, J. W., CDFG. 1986. Memo to file. Re: Rector Creek, Napa County. Dated March 31.

77. Emig, J. W., CDFG. 1992a. Memo to file. Re: Fish Population Sampling; July 29, 1992. Dated July 31.

78. Emig, J. W., CDFG. 1992b. Preliminary estimate of monetary value of resources lost, York Creek, Napa County. Report 

dated August 26.

79. Emig, J. W., CDFG. 1992c. Memo to J. Edwards. Re: York Creek [sediment] discharge, July 1992. Dated August 4.

80. Emig, J. W., CDFG. 1997. Field Note: Campbell Creek. Report dated March 11.

81. Evans, W. A., CDFG. 1954. Field Note: Milliken Reservoir. Report dated April 8.

82. Evans, W. A., CDFG. 1956. Field Note: Sage Creek. Report dated March 2.

83. Evans, W. A., W. C. Johnson, C. K. Fisher, R. F. Elwell, and J. T. Allen, CDFG. 1956. Stream Survey Sage Creek. 

Report dated August 7.

84. Finlayson, B., CDFG. 1973. Stream Survey Ritchie Creek. Report dated October 5.

85. Fisher, C. K., CDFG. 1956. Stream Survey Chiles Creek. Report dated August 7.

86. Fisher, C. K., CDFG. 1959a. Stream Survey Conn Creek. Report dated February 6.

87. Fisher, C. K., CDFG. 1959b. Stream Survey Milliken Creek. Report dated February 6.

88. Fisher, C. K., CDFG. 1959c. Stream Survey Napa River.

89. Gillespie, M., and R. Reed, CDFG. 1976. Field Note: Carneros Creek. Report dated December 6.

90. Gillespie, M., and B. Rowser, CDFG. 1977. Stream Survey Redwood Creek. Report dated April 13 and 14.

91. Gray, F., CDFG. 1985. Huichica Creek, tributary to Hudeman Slough, Napa County Surveys for Freshwater Shrimp. 

Report dated November 19.

92. Gray, F., CDFG. 1986a. Fish Population Sampling and topics relating to survival of planted steelhead: Soda Canyon 

Creek, tributary to the Napa River, Napa County. Report dated January 17.

93. Gray, F., CDFG. 1986b. Memo to file. Re: Fish Population Sampling, Rector Creek, tributary to Rector Reservoir, Napa 

County. Dated January 10.

94. Gray, F., CDFG. 1986c. Memo to file. Re: Fish Population Sampling, Redwood Creek, tributary to the Napa River, 

Napa County. Dated January 17.

95. Gray, F., CDFG. 1986d. Fish Population Sampling, Soda Canyon Creek, tributary to the Napa River, Napa County. 

Report dated February.

96. Gray, F., CDFG. 1986e. Memo to file. Re: Fish Population Sampling, Soda Canyon Creek, tributary to the Napa River, 

Napa County. Dated May 2.

97. Gray, F., CDFG. 1986f. Memo to T. Belt. Re: Fish Population Sampling, York Creek, tributary to the Napa River, Napa 

County. Dated May 2.
247

98. Gray, F., CDFG. 1987a. Memo to file. Re: Fish Population Sampling, Dutch Henry Creek, Napa County. Dated 

March 31.

99. Gray, F., CDFG. 1987b. Memo to file. Re: Fish Population Sampling, Napa River, Napa County. Dated May 11.

100. Gray, F., CDFG. 1988a. Memo to file. Re: Fish Population Sampling, Conn Creek, tributary to Lake Hennessey, Napa 

County. Dated September 23.

101. Gray, F., CDFG. 1988b. Memo to file. Re: Fish Population Sampling, Rector Creek, tributary to Rector Reservoir, Napa 

County. Dated February 24.

102. Gray, F., CDFG. 1989a. Memo to file. Re: Fish Population Sampling, Hichica Creek, Napa County. Dated February 8.

103. Gray, F., CDFG. 1989b. Memo to file. Re: Napa River, Napa County Gillnet Survey. Dated November 21.

104. Gray, F., CDFG. 1990a. Memo to file. Re: Electrofishing Survey, Chiles Creek, tributary to Lake Hennessy, Napa 

County. Dated October 9.

105. Gray, F., CDFG. 1990b. Memo to file. Re: Electrofishing Survey, Hinman Creek, tributary to Napa River, Napa 

County. Dated October 17.

106. Gray, F., CDFG. 1990c. Memo to file. Re: Electrofishing Survey, Moore Creek, tributary to Chiles Creek, Napa County. 

Dated September 14.

107. Gray, F., CDFG. 1990d. Memo to file. Re: Electrofishing Survey, Murphy Creek, tributary to Tulocay Creek and the 

Napa River, Napa County. Dated September 3.

108. Gray, F., CDFG. 1990e. Memo to file. Re: Electrofishing Survey, Ritchie Creek, Napa County. Dated September 13.

109. Gray, F., CDFG. 1990f. Memo to file. Re: Electrofishing Survey, Sage Creek, Napa County. Dated September 6.

110. Gray, F., CDFG. 1990g. Electrofishing Survey, Sarco Creek, tributary to the Napa River. Report dated September 4.

111. Gray, F., CDFG. 1990h. Memo to file. Re: Electrofishing Survey, Upper Bell Canyon Creek, Napa County. Dated 

October 10.

112. Greenwald, W., CDFG. 1965a. Letter to W. T. Shannon. Dated May 25.

113. Greenwald, W., CDFG. 1965b. Letter to G. T. Kishbough, California State Division of Beaches and Parks. Re: Barrier 

and Diversion Dam, Ritchie Creek. Dated December 24.

114. Greenwald, W., CDFG. 1970. Memo to CDFG Water Projects Branch. Re: WP - Dam application No. 16-3 Bell 

Canyon Dam, Napa County. Dated May 12.

115. Hallett, H., and E. Lockbaum. 1972. Field Survey of Huichica Creek, Napa County, California. CDFG.

116. Harris, L., and J. Ambrosins, CDFG. 1981a. Memo to file. Re: Bell Canyon Creek. Dated July 3.

117. Harris, L., and J. Ambrosins, CDFG. 1981b. Memo to file. Re: Carneros Creek, Napa County. Dated June 29 and 

July 1.

118. Harris, L., and J. Ambrosins, CDFG. 1981c. Memo to file. Re: Cyrus Creek, Napa County. Dated June 25.

119. Harris, L., and J. Ambrosins, CDFG. 1981d. Memo to file. Re: Dutch Henry Canyon Creek, Napa County. Dated 

June 23.

120. Harris, L., and J. Ambrosins, CDFG. 1981e. Memo to file. Re: Hopper Creek Slough, Napa County. Dated June 30.

121. Harris, L., and J. Ambrosins, CDFG. 1981f. Memo to file. Re: Tulucay Creek, Napa County. Dated June 22.

122. Henry, M., CDFG. 1975. Stream Survey York Creek. Report dated August 5.

123. Henry, M., and M. Coleman, CDFG. 1975. Stream Survey Milliken Creek. Report dated July 15.

124. Henry, M., and M. S. Van Zandt, CDFG. 1975. Stream Survey Bear Canyon Creek. Report dated September 12.

125. Hicks, D., CDFG. 1966. Stream Survey Hinman Creek. Report dated August 25.
248

126. Hicks, D., and M. McCurdy, CDFG. 1966a. Stream Survey North Branch of Redwood Creek (Pickle Canyon Creek). 

Report dated June 7.

127. Hicks, D., and M. McCurdy, CDFG. 1966b. Stream Survey Redwood Creek. Report dated June 8, 9 and 10.

128. Holstine, C., CDFG. 1975. Stream Survey Montgomery Creek. Report dated December 4.

129. Hunter, B., CDFG, and M. H. Getty, California State Department of Parks and Recreation. 1993. Letter to L. Howard, 

Tucker Farm Center. Dated July 19.

130. Jones, W. E., CDFG. 1964a. Memo to R. J. Hansen. Re: Fish rescue, Soda Creek, Napa County. Dated February 24.

131. Jones, W. E., CDFG. 1964b. Memo to R. J. Hansen. Re: Ritchie Creek, Napa County, Diversion Dam, Bothe-Napa 

State Park - A hazard to upstream Steelhead migration. Dated March 11.

132. Jones, W. E., CDFG. 1964c. Stream Survey Cyrus Creek. Report dated January 17.

133. Jones, W. E., CDFG. 1966. Memo to E. Gibbs. Dated March 21.

134. Jones, W. E., CDFG. 1967. Memo to G. Nokes. Re: Redwood Creek, Napa County Population estimates of young 

steelhead in the drainage upstream form the proposed dam site. Dated September 20.

135. Jones, W. E., CDFG. 1968. Memo to G. Nokes. Re: Murphy Creek, Napa County. Dated June 18.

136. Jong, B., CDFG. 1983. Letter to L. Eng, Endangered Species Project. Re: Fish Species Composition, Huichica Creek, 

Napa County. Dated April 18.

137. Kohlhorst, D. W., CDFG. 1973. Memo to F. L. Goodson, CDFG, Region 3. Re: Results of survey in Napa Marsh and 

Suisun Marsh. Dated November 21.

138. Kohlhorst, D. W., CDFG. 1976. Memo to A. Baracco. Re: Napa Marsh Fish Fauna. Dated April 15.

139. Kohlhorst, D. W., CDFG. 1979. Letter to B. Haussler. Re: Fishes in Lindsey Slough. Dated January 5.

140. Lee, D. P., CDFG. 1974. Stream Survey Nash Creek. Report dated May 23.

141. Lee, J., and L. Namba, CDFG. 1978a. Stream Survey Mill Creek. Report dated August 3, 7.

142. Lee, J., and L. Namba, CDFG. 1978b. Stream Survey Ritchie Creek. Report dated July 27.

143. Leidy, R. A. 1984. Distribution and Ecology of Stream Fishes in the San Francisco Bay Drainage (and associated 

unpublished data, 1981-1984). Hilgardia 52(8).

144. Leidy, R. A., USEPA. 2002. Unpublished stream survey data 1992-2002.

145. McCurdy, M., CDFG. 1966. Stream Survey Browns Valley Creek. Report dated June 29.

146. Michaels, J. 1977. The natural resources of Napa Marsh. Madrone Associates for CDFG.

147. Montoya, M., CDFG. 1987a. Memo to file. Re: Stream Survey Bell Canyon Creek, Napa County. Dated July 7.

148. Montoya, M., CDFG. 1987b. Memo to file. Re: Stream Survey Milliken Creek, Napa County. Dated August 15.

149. Montoya, M., CDFG. 1987c. Memo to file. Re: Stream Survey Redwood Creek, Napa County. Dated July 8.

150. Montoya, M., CDFG. 1987d. Memo to file. Re: Stream Survey Sarco Creek, tributary to Milliken Creek, Napa County. 

Dated August 19.

151. Montoya, M., CDFG. 1987e. Memo to file. Re: Stream Survey unknown tributary to Sarco Creek, Napa County. Dated 

August 25.

152. Montoya, M., CDFG. 1988a. Memo to file. Re: Electrofishing Survey Freshwater Shrimp (FWS), Huichica Creek, 

Napa County. Dated August 11.

153. Montoya, M., CDFG. 1988b. Memo to file. Re: Electrofishing Survey, Milliken Creek, Napa County; July 27, 1988. 

Dated August 16.

154. Montoya, M., CDFG. 1988c. Electrofishing Survey, Napa River, Napa County. Report dated November 14.

155. Murphy, G. I. 1949. The 1947 and 1948 fishery of Conn Valley Reservoir, Napa County. CDFG.
249

156. Nelson, J., and B. Finlayson, CDFG. 1973. Stream Survey York Creek. Report dated July 9.

157. Nokes, G., CDFG. 1967. Bell Canyon Creek, Napa County. Report dated February 9.

158. Ott, E. J. N., Jr. 1945. Letter to City of Napa. Dated September 17.

159. Pinkham, C., CDFG. 1976. Stream Survey Hopper Creek. Report dated August 11.

160. Reed, R., CDFG. 1976. Stream Survey Huichica Creek. Report dated December 11.

161. Reynolds, R., CDFG. 1973. Stream Survey Suscol Creek. Report dated May 8 and 9.

162. Robinson, J. B., CDFG. 1963. Letter to C. V. Martin. Re: Napa River Drainage. Dated February 18.

163. Shapovalov, L., CDFG. 1940a. Lake Survey Milliken Reservoir. Report dated June 24.

164. Shapovalov, L. 1940b. Report on four reservoirs in Napa and Solano Counties. CDFG.

165. Shapovalov, L., CDFG. 1940c. Stream Survey Sage Creek. Report dated June 25.

166. Shapovalov, L., CDFG. 1940d. Stream Survey Unnamed Tributary to Soda Creek. Report dated June 25.

167. Shapovalov, L., CDFG. 1941. Stream Survey Camp Creek. Report dated February 6.

168. Shapovalov, L., CDFG. 1948. Letter to G. I. Murphy. Re: Conn Valley Reservoir, Napa County. Dated June 16.

169. Thompson, J., and J. Michaels, CDFG. 1969. Stream Survey Bell Canyon Creek. Report dated June 20.

170. Thompson, L., CDFG. 1967a. Memo to W. E. Jones. Re: Rainbow Trout/Steelhead survey, Pickle Canyon Creek 

(Tributary to Redwood Creek) Napa County. Dated June 26.

171. Thompson, L., CDFG. 1967b. Rainbow Trout/Steelhead survey, Redwood Creek, Napa County. Report dated June 20.

172. Thompson, L., CDFG. 1967c. Stream Survey. Report dated March 21.

173. Thompson, L., CDFG. 1967d. Stream Survey Ritchie Creek. Report dated July 13.

174. Turner, J. L., CDFG. 1995. Memo to E. Anton, Department of Water Resources Control Board. Re: Protest water 

application 30287 and 30288, water to be appropriated from Bear Canyon Creek tributary to Bale Slough thence Napa 

River to a point of diversion within SE 1/4 of SW 1/4 of fractional section 17, T7N, R5W, MDB&M in the County of 

Napa. Dated March 7.

175. Tyler, R., and C. Holstine, CDFG. 1975. Stream Survey Milliken Creek. Report dated November 3 and December 5.

176. USFWS, and CDFG, USFWS, CDFG. 1968. Analysis of fish habitat of Napa River and tributaries, Napa County, CA, 

with emphasis given to steelhead trout production. Report dated October 21.

177. Week, L., CDFG. 1975. Memo to file. Re: Draining and chemical treatment of Hinman Reservoir, Napa County. 

Dated July 29.

178. Week, L., CDFG. 1989. Memo to file. Re: Field Note: Sulphur Creek and Iron Mine Creek, Napa County. Dated 

July 14.

179. Wilkinson, C., USFWS for USACE. 1999. Fish and wildlife coordination act report for the Napa River flood damage 

reduction project. Report dated April.

1. J. Koehler, Napa County Resource Conservation District, interview with G. Becker, CEMAR, on May 25, 2005 in 

Napa, California regarding O. mykiss distribution in Napa County streams.

Personal Communications
250
251

NAPA COUNTY MAPS

Historical status of Oncorhynchus mykiss in streams of Napa County, Caliornia. 

Current status of Oncorhynchus mykiss in streams of Napa County, Caliornia. 
252
257

SOLANO COUNTY

Unnamed Creek to Cordelia Slough Watershed

This creek drains the area between American and Jameson Canyons. It flows generally east to enter Cordelia Slough about onehalf mile south of the town of Cordelia.

Unnamed Creek to Cordelia Slough

In July 1996, Leidy sampled the unnamed creek where it flowed through Ridgeview Park in the Oakbrook Drive development 

south of Cordelia and west of Interstate 680. He sampled the creek again in October, about 650 feet further upstream. 

Oncorhynchus mykiss was not found during either sampling effort (Leidy 2002).

In July 2003, O. mykiss were noted in an unnamed tributary to Cordelia Slough. Two O. mykiss (~175-200 mm) were seen in a 

pool east of Interstate 80, approximately 200 yards upstream of the Pacific Gas and Electric tower where a two-foot diameter pipe 

crossed the stream (Field biologist pers. comm.). Subsequent surveys found juvenile O. mykiss.

Green Valley Creek Watershed

Green Valley Creek is an intermittent to perennial stream that runs southeast where it is joined by Cook Canyon Creek, and then 

by Wild Horse Creek before entering the Green Valley. Green Valley Creek runs approximately 4.7 miles to Cordelia Slough.

Green Valley Creek

In 1958, DFG staff described the reach immediately above Highway 40 as having negligible function for fisheries (Elwell 1958). 

In a 1962 report, Skinner indicated that Green Valley Creek was an historical migration route and habitat for steelhead (Skinner 

1962).

In October 1974, DFG surveyed Green Valley Creek in relation to the Via Palo Linda Bridge project. The survey report noted 

several juvenile steelhead observed upstream from the site (Week 1975). 

In January 1975, DFG sampled four sites on Green Valley Creek by electrofishing. The sites were pairs of 30-meter reaches in 

downstream and upstream locations. Oncorhynchus mykiss occurred in each of the sites as follows: 1,500 feet downstream of the 

project site, 15 steelhead; 200 feet downstream, four steelhead; 300 feet upstream, 39 steelhead; and 1,750 feet upstream, 96 

steelhead (Week 1975). Based on these results, DFG calculated the average O. mykiss density for undisturbed sections of the creek 

to be about 68 fish per 30 meters (Week 1975).

In June 1976, more than 50 YOY steelhead were reported in an unnamed tributary of Green Valley Creek flowing through the 

Green Valley Country Club. Thirty YOY steelhead were electroshocked, collected, and moved to the Napa River (Pinkham and 

Johnson 1976). The incident report noted some suitable spawning and rearing habitat areas in upstream portions of this creek, 
258

as well as YOY present in these reaches (Pinkham and Johnson 1976). One O. mykiss measuring 73.5 mm SL was collected from 

Green Valley Creek near Lake Frey in January 1979 (Courtois 1979).

According to residents living upstream of the Via Palo Alto Bridge, a steelhead run persisted in Green Valley Creek until 

approximately 1986 (Gray 1990). The Department of Fish and Game sampled this area by electrofishing in September 1990 and 

found one O. mykiss measuring 222 mm FL (Gray 1990).

Leidy sampled Green Valley Creek at two locations in 1994 and one location in 1996, all downstream of Interstate 80, and did 

not collect O. mykiss (Leidy 2002). However, in January 1997 he caught one O. mykiss (102 mm FL) approximately one mile 

upstream of Interstate 80 at Pavallion Court and another individual (100 mm) at a site about two miles upstream from Interstate 

80 (Leidy 2002). The second site also contained one dead O. mykiss (~150 mm). Near Country Club Drive in Green Valley, Leidy 

caught one adult steelhead (480 mm) and two juveniles (92 mm, 92 mm) (Leidy 2002).

Wild Horse Valley Creek

Lake Frey and Lake Madigan were created on Wild Horse Valley Creek by construction of dams in 1894 and 1908, respectively. 

Fishways were not included in the dams. In 1940, DFG reported that the local warden considered both lakes to be “fine” trout 

lakes, but that steelhead stocking would be necessary for a continued fishery. Shapovalov cited absent or extremely limited 

spawning areas upstream of Lake Frey as precluding a self-sustaining steelhead population (Shapovalov 1940).

Assessment: Oncorhynchus mykiss has been collected in the Green Valley Creek drainage from the 1950s to the present. While 

the watershed is relatively small, its position adjacent to the Suisun Creek drainage provides habitat opportunities to salmonids 

migrating upstream from the Suisun and Cordelia Slough area.

Suisun Creek Watershed

Suisun Creek drains a 52 square mile drainage on the west side of the Vaca Mountains. The creek flows south where it is joined by 

Wooden Valley, Gordon Valley and Green Valley creeks. Suisun Creek enters Grizzly Bay in the northern part of the San Francisco 

Estuary via Cordelia Slough.

Suisun Creek

Lake Curry was formed by the construction of Gordon Valley Dam on Suisun Creek in 1926. No fishway was built as part of this 

project (Shapovalov 1940). In a 1940 report, DFG cited the reservoir caretaker as seeing “sea-run” steelhead running up Suisun 

Creek to the dam spillway. 

A May 1956 DFG survey found steelhead fingerlings “abundant” in the upper portions of Suisun Creek and its tributaries, 

particularly in and just below the confluence of Wooden Valley Creek (Westgate 1956). Steelhead also were present, although in 

smaller numbers, downstream to the mouth. The survey report stated DFG’s opinion that the Suisun Creek system could not 

support a substantial trout fishery due to over-appropriation of water (Westgate 1956).
259

In a 1962 report, Skinner indicated that Suisun Creek was an historical migration route and habitat for steelhead (Skinner 1962). 

At that time, the creek was said to be “lightly used” as steelhead habitat (Skinner 1962).

In April 1964, DFG sampled Suisun Creek at the upper end of Suisun Valley near Mankas Corner. Several O. mykiss (~150 mm) 

were observed, and the survey report noted some spawning gravels present in the vicinity of the site (Gerstung 1964).

A 1969 DFG memorandum noted an estimated run of less than 50 steelhead in the Suisun Creek watershed (Greenwald 1969). 

The Department of Fish and Game stated that juvenile steelhead were observed throughout the watershed and further noted a 

lack of nursery habitat as the population’s limiting factor (Greenwald 1969).

In February 1975, DFG electrofished 30-meter reaches near the Rockville Road bridge construction site. Thirty-nine steelhead 

were found in the reach immediately upstream and 96 in the reach immediately downstream of the site (Rugg 1975). Rockville 

Road crosses Suisun Creek immediately upstream of Interstate 80.

In July 1980, DFG visually surveyed and electrofished Suisun Creek between the Southern Pacific Railroad Bridge, downstream 

of Interstate 80, and the Wooden Valley Creek confluence. No O. mykiss were found, but the survey report stated that the 

creek sustained a winter steelhead run (Cox 1980). The report noted anglers taking steelhead in the summer of 1979, as well as 

local residents’ claims that runs had decreased in recent years (Cox 1980). The Department of Fish and Game recommended 

management for steelhead by removing barriers, improving agricultural practices, and preventing dumping.

Three Suisun Creek sites downstream of Lake Curry were sampled in October 1981 as part of a fish distribution study. No 

O. mykiss were found (Leidy 1984). In a 1984 report, DFG noted that Suisun Creek had a self-sustaining, natural steelhead 

population (Meyer 1984).

Between March and July 2001, O. mykiss were observed in Suisun Creek by people performing habitat mapping and monitoring 

activities. In March, an adult female steelhead (673 mm FL) was found approximately 0.25 miles downstream of the Wooden 

Valley Creek confluence (Hanson Environmental 2001). In June and early July, three additional adult steelhead (530 to 

approximately 640 mm) were observed in the creek between approximately six and 11 miles downstream of Lake Curry. 

Juvenile O. mykiss also were observed downstream of the dam. These fish typically ranged from 160-170 mm in length (Hanson 

Environmental 2001).

Wooden Valley Creek

The Department of Fish and Game reported in 1940 that the caretaker of Lake Curry (on Suisun Creek) observed steelhead runs 

in Wooden Valley Creek (Shapovalov 1940). In May 1956, DFG sampled throughout the Suisun Creek drainage, and stated in a 

report that steelhead in the Suisun Creek system were most abundant in Wooden Valley Creek downstream from Wooden Valley 

(Westgate 1956).

A 1959 DFG correspondence cited Mr. Bolten Hall, the local game warden, as saying that Wooden Valley Creek supported 

a small run of steelhead trout every year (Jones 1959). The letter stated DFG position that Wooden Valley Creek provided a 

steelhead trout fishery that was worth preserving through insurance of adequate flows (Jones 1959).
260

In April 1964, DFG surveyed Wooden Valley Creek in the canyon downstream of Wooden Valley. Two to eight O. mykiss

juveniles were noted in deeper pools in the reach (Gerstung 1964). Numerous O. mykiss juveniles to 150 mm in length were 

observed in the canyon below Wooden Valley. The survey report noted patches of “excellent” spawning gravels (Gerstung 1964). 

A 1965 DFG letter regarding a box culvert on Wooden Valley Creek noted that the stream was important to salmonid 

populations. The letter contained recommendations for providing fish passage at the project (Jones 1965). A 1969 DFG 

memorandum identified the greatest concentrations of steelhead juveniles in the Suisun Creek system to be in Wooden Valley 

Creek (Greenwald 1969). A 1980 DFG stream survey report for Suisun Creek noted that juvenile O. mykiss were seen in surveys 

of Wooden Valley Creek that year (Cox 1980).

Wooden Valley Creek was sampled in October 1981 as part of a fish distribution study. No O. mykiss were collected in a 15-meter 

reach along Wooden Valley Road (Leidy 1984). An undated draft letter from DFG to the City of Vallejo Water Superintendent 

identified the lack of surface flows below Lake Curry as the principal element limiting the productivity of steelhead in Suisun 

Creek (Hunter n.d.).

In December 2001, a pair of spawning “salmon” were observed constructing a redd in the lower reach of Wooden Valley Creek 

near Wooden Valley Road (Blizard 2001). A pair of spawned out carcasses (1 male, 1 female) and possibly another male salmon 

also were observed (Blizard 2001). 

In June 2002, a survey of Wooden Valley Creek between the mouth and the White Creek confluence was conducted. Juvenile O. 

mykiss were observed near the headwaters and at various other locations throughout the length of the survey area (L. Marcus pers. 

comm.). Residents in the vicinity reported adult O. mykiss had been present in the creek in recent years. 

White Creek

White Creek is a tributary of Wooden Valley Creek and flows through the property of Wild Horse Valley Ranch. In 1980 

Professor John Hopkirk of Sonoma State University identified White Creek as one of the last remaining spawning streams for 

steelhead trout within the Suisun Creek system (Hopkirk 1980).

Assessment: The Suisun Creek watershed formerly supported steelhead runs, although the O. mykiss population likely was 

substantially affected by the construction of Gordon Valley Dam (Lake Curry) in 1926 and subsequent water developments. 

Oncorhynchus mykiss persists in the drainage, although recent surveys have not included estimates of density. Adult O. mykiss

believed to be wild have been noted in main stem Suisun Creek and in its major tributary, Wooden Valley Creek (L. Marcus 

pers. comm.). Restoration planning is now being developed for the watershed, with likely recommendations to include habitat 

improvements such as invasive species control and instream flow modifications to improve over-summering habitat conditions (J. 

Beuttlier pers. comm.).
261

Watershed Stream/ Tributary

Yrs. Surveyed/ Quant. Data

Max. Period of Record

Data

Type

Life Hist. Stage/No. Yrs. Data

Anad.Life-CyclePossible

O. mykiss Evidence 

of Pop. Decline

Current Pop.Status

References(Pers. Comm.) Hist. Current

Unnamed creek to Cordelia Slough

Unnamed to Cordelia Slough

3/0 2003 1, 2 J/1 Y PB DF - 1, 2, 3

14(2)

Green Valley Creek Green Valley 9/4 1962- 97 0, 1, 2, 3 J/3; R/1; M/2 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3 2, 4, 6, 14, 16, 19, 20

Wild Horse Valley 1/0 1940 0, 1 - UNK DF PS - 0 18

Suisun Creek Suisun 10/3 1940- 2001 0, 1 J/4; M/4 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3

3, 5, 7, 8, 13, 15, 17-19, 21 (1)

Wooden Valley 7/1 1940- 2002 0, 1 J/4; M/3 Y DF DF Y 1, 2, 3

1, 3, 5, 7, 10-13, 18, 21(3)

White 1/0 1980 0 - UNK DF UNK Y 0 9

a Table headings and codes are defined in the Methods section of this report.Table X-1. Distribution status of O. mykiss in San Francisco Estuary streams of Solano County, Californiaa
262

1. Blizard, R. CalTrans. 2001. Wooden Valley Creek map, drawn for Robert A. Leidy, USEPA.

2. Courtois, L. A., CDFG. 1979. Memo to R. Corbeau. Re: Identification of fish collected from Green Valley Creek on 

January 10, 1979. Dated January 16.

3. Cox, B., CDFG. 1980. Stream Survey Suisun, Wooden Valley Creeks. Report dated July-August.

4. Elwell, R. F., CDFG. 1958. Memo to C. K. Fisher. Re: Fisheries resources of Green Valley Creek, Solano County. Dated 

September 23.

5. Gerstung, E. R., USACE. 1964. Memo to file. Re: Suisun Creek, observations of April 2, 1964. Dated April 30.

6. Gray, F., CDFG. 1990. Memo to file. Re: Electrofishing Survey, Green Valley Creek, Solano County. Dated October 9.

7. Greenwald, W., CDFG. 1969. Memo to Chief of Operations. Re: Water Rights, Suisun Creek, Napa and Solano 

Counties. Dated May 22.

8. Hanson Environmental. 2001. Adult and Juvenile Steelhead Occurrence within Suisun Creek, Walnut Creek.

9. Hopkirk, J. D., Ph.D., Sonoma State University. 1980. Letter to G. D. Murray, III, Wild Horse Valley Ranch Inc. 

Dated February 25.

10. Hunter, B., CDFG. n.d. Undated draft letter.

11. Jones, R. L., CDFG. 1959. Letter to W. T. Shannon. Re: Water Application 17055, Wooden Valley Creek and West 

Branch Suisun Creek, Napa County. Dated December 9.

12. Jones, W. E., CDFG. 1965. Letter to W. A. Evans. Re: 1601-1602 Highway project--Wooden Valley Creek, Napa 

County Engineering and Road Department. Dated May 17.

13. Leidy, R. A. 1984. Distribution and Ecology of Stream Fishes in the San Francisco Bay Drainage (and associated 

unpublished data, 1981-1984). Hilgardia 52(8).

14. Leidy, R. A., USEPA. 2002. Unpublished stream survey data 1992-2002.

15. Meyer, F. A., CDFG. 1984. Memo to R. Beland. Re: Pilot Creel Census, Carquinez Strait Area, Steelhead Catch. Dated 

April 17.

16. Pinkham, C., and R. Johnson, CDFG. 1976. Field Note: Unnamed tributary to Green Valley Creek, T 5 N, R 3 W, 

NW 1/4 of NW 1/4 Sec 26. Report dated June 23.

17. Rugg, M. E., CDFG. 1975. Electrofishing report sheet. Report dated February 13.

18. Shapovalov, L. 1940. Report on four reservoirs in Napa and Solano Counties. CDFG.

19. Skinner, J. E. 1962. Fish and Wildlife Resources of the San Francisco Bay Area.

20. Week, L., CDFG. 1975. Letter to M. E. Rugg. Re: Estimate of juvenile steelhead loss in Green Valley Creek resulting 

from the Via Palo Linda County bridge project. Dated February 13.

21. Westgate, J., CDFG. 1956. Letter to L. R. Dunham. Re: Suisun Creek, Solano and Napa Counties. Dated June 13.

1. Beuttlier, J., California Sportfishing Protection Alliance, telephone conversation with G. Becker, CEMAR, January 2, 

2003, regarding Suisun Creek fishes.

2. Field biologist, telephone conversation with G. Becker, CEMAR, July 17, 2003, 2003, in Oakland, regarding steelhead 

in unnamed tributary to Cordelia Slough.

3. Marcus, L., Laurel Marcus and Associates, telephone conversation with G. Becker, CEMAR, January 2, 2003, regarding 

Wooden Valley Creek survey.

References

Personal Communications
263

SOLANO COUNTY MAPS

Historical status of Oncorhynchus mykiss in streams of Solano County, Caliornia. 

Current status of Oncorhynchus mykiss in streams of Solano County, Caliornia. 
264
269

DISCUSSION

Our report documents available information regarding the historical status and current distribution of rainbow trout/steelhead 

(Oncorhynchus mykiss) in 277 streams tributary to the San Francisco Estuary. This report section summarizes distribution status, 

including our observations regarding potential causes of reduced range over time. Our findings regarding the distribution and 

persistence of O. mykiss are consistent with the species’ spawning and rearing habitat requirements. Specifically, steelhead persist in 

San Francisco Estuary streams that maintain at least minimal relatively cold pools throughout the dry seasons of most years. The 

declining distribution and abundance of O. mykiss suggest a possible management strategy for San Francisco Estuary streams that 

we outline here. Also, we briefly describe other characteristics of a program to restore steelhead habitat and monitor distribution 

and abundance.

Estuary streams steelhead resources

Historically, steelhead appear to have used the vast majority of creeks, streams and rivers tributary to the San Francisco Estuary for 

spawning and rearing prior to extensive development of the region. We found evidence sufficient to designate a definite historical 

run or population (DF) in 196 Bay Area streams. Thus, more than 70 percent of the streams examined in this study were formerly 

“steelhead streams.” We designated an additional 18 streams (six percent) as having probable runs or populations (PB) and 10 

streams (four percent) as having possible runs or populations (PS). We assume that virtually all streams supporting O. mykiss

historically were hydrologically connected to the estuary at least in some years, and that the populations in these streams were of 

relatively recent anadromous ancestry.

None of the materials we reviewed suggested that steelhead historically did not use specific watersheds. Therefore, we did not 

assign the NP (no run or population) value in the historical status column. (Please see the Methods section for further explanation 

of the terms used in the distribution and status tables.) We should note that drainages with the smallest sub-basin areas, 

particularly those in the most arid portions of the Bay Area, likely never supported salmonids. However, the confirmed presence 

of O. mykiss in many small, ephemeral tributaries suggests against assuming lack of historical use. In 53 instances (19 percent), 

we could not find sufficient information to justify one of the four status designations, leading to characterization as unknown 

(UNK).

The current distribution status of O. mykiss (within the last ten years) is as follows: 150 San Francisco Estuary streams (or 54 

percent of our study streams) are DF status, seven streams (three percent) are assigned PB status, and twelve streams (four percent) 

are PS status. Since genetics information is available for a small number of the O. mykiss observations we reviewed, we are unable 

to note streams supporting only O. mykiss of hatchery origin. As a result, some streams may be designated DF that no longer 

support O. mykiss derived from anadromous stocks of the Central California Coast Evolutionarily Significant Unit. 

Eighty-three of our study streams (30 percent) appear to have no run or population currently. In 25 instances (nine percent), 

sufficient uncertainty existed regarding the potential of the stream to support O. mykiss that we used the UNK value. We hope 

that new information can be developed to complete the current status designations and to update our designations as necessary. As 

described below, we believe that creating a “clearinghouse” for monitoring information will assist in effectively managing steelhead 

resources in the future.
270

Of the 277 streams we analyze in our study, 152 (55 percent) currently are incapable of supporting an anadromous O. mykiss

life cycle, either because no population is present in the stream or because known total passage barriers exist downstream from 

suitable spawning and rearing habitat. We estimate that the number of streams capable of supporting the anadromous O. mykiss 

life cycle has decreased from 196 streams (i.e., the number of historical DF streams) to 83 streams. In other words, 58 percent of 

the known historical steelhead streams in the Bay Area no longer support steelhead populations.

A substantial number of our study streams are current DF status but do not support anadromy. The resident populations in 

these streams may or may not produce smolts. We recommend additional study to characterize potential smolt production from 

resident O. mykiss populations in the Bay Area.

Our research indicates that very few abundance estimates are available for O. mykiss populations in San Francisco Estuary streams. 

Where we found reliable evidence of population decline, we cited references in the description for the stream experiencing the 

decline and used a “Y” (for “yes”) designation in the county summary table. We applied the Y value to 158 streams, or about 

57 percent of the streams in our study area. It is beyond the scope of this investigation to attribute specific causes of population 

decline to specific streams.

Persistence factors and management considerations

The most commonly-cited factors in decreased O. mykiss abundance in San Francisco Estuary streams were (in unranked order): 

construction of passage barriers including dams, drop structures, road crossings, weirs, concrete channels, and other structures; 

increased sedimentation through hydrologic modification, land use changes, or other processes; habitat degradation through 

channel modification, cattle grazing, deforestation, pollution, or water diversion; and over fishing. We do not attempt to rank 

these factors or otherwise quantify their impact on distribution and abundance of O. mykiss here. However, the potent effects of 

passage barriers and habitat degradation through water diversion implied in the materials we reviewed for this report merit some 

discussion.

Several known historical Bay Area steelhead runs have been lost entirely to lower watershed passage barriers. A partial list of 

regionally important extirpated runs includes: Walnut and San Pablo creeks in Contra Costa County; San Leandro, San Lorenzo, 

and Alameda creeks in Alameda County; and Arroyo Corte Madera del Presidio and Corte Madera Creek in Marin County. A 

larger number of streams have experienced habitat restriction and decreased O. mykiss abundance through placement of partial 

or total passage barriers. Important examples of this phenomenon include: Los Gatos Creek (Vasona Reservoir) and Stevens 

Creek (Stevens Creek Reservoir) in Santa Clara County; San Francisquito Creek tributaries (Searsville Lake) and San Mateo 

Creek (Crystal Springs Reservoir) in San Mateo County; and Conn Creek (Lake Hennessey) in Napa County. Construction of 

several larger Bay Area reservoirs appear to have land-locked native O. mykiss populations, several of which continue to reproduce 

in reservoir tributaries. These adfluvial populations may constitute an important genetic resource to be used in recovering the 

regional steelhead resource.

Barrier studies and modifications are on-going throughout Bay Area watersheds, and may lead to re-opening of substantial 

habitat areas. Re-design of the lower Walnut Creek flood control channel, dam removals and modifications in Alameda Creek 

and the Guadalupe River, and fish passage studies in eastern Marin County streams are particularly encouraging indications that 

conditions for steelhead in-migration may improve in the near term. Continued attention to the “fish friendly” design of flood 
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control projects, road crossings and other channel modifications is necessary to ensure that new impediments are not created in 

migration corridors.

 Water diversion may comprise both the most important factor in reducing O. mykiss abundance in Estuary streams over time and 

the most difficult to correlate with this effect. Where Bay Area dams impound most of the local runoff from the watersheds in 

which they occur, and are operated without provision for fish flows, downstream effects on steelhead resources are relatively clear 

(and can be noted in at least four East Bay streams). More commonly, however, steelhead habitat appears to be reduced in quality 

and quantity by the cumulative effects of multiple smaller diversions, combined with groundwater withdrawals. Establishing 

“cause and effect” relationships between diversion and habitat characteristics for particular watersheds typically involves complex 

data collection and modeling efforts. We did not encounter such analyses in our research. Rather, we noted multiple reports 

by DFG staff and others of agricultural and other diversions leading to decreases in the extent and duration of wetted channel 

(particularly pools) in the dry season.

We suggest that the historical and current practice of ascribing low value to the use of water for fish habitat is incompatible with 

steelhead restoration in streams of the San Francisco Estuary. Amongst the anadromous salmonids, O. mykiss is uniquely adapted 

to succeed within the climatic constraints encountered in the region. In particular, the species’ abilities to spawn repeatedly (i.e., 

iteropary), to maintain both resident and anadromous forms within a population, and to persist in isolated pools throughout the 

dry season make its extirpation from the region unlikely. Nevertheless, we believe that water development has severely impacted 

steelhead resources by reducing available habitat, and that additional studies and resulting dedicated minimum “fish flows” will be 

necessary for recovery of the Bay Area O. mykiss population.

San Francisco Estuary streams steelhead recovery

Recovering steelhead in San Francisco Estuary streams will require coordinated actions to mitigate the substantial loss of habitat 

that has resulted from human activities of the last 150 years. We support an approach of first identifying and protecting relatively 

healthy watershed areas throughout the Bay Area. Next, a program to determine a set of priority streams for restoration is 

recommended. Restoration related studies, planning and project implementation already are occurring in several watersheds likely 

to be designated as “priority.” However, we believe that a comprehensive approach to restoration using established methods must 

form the basis of a regional O. mykiss recovery strategy.

We suggest evaluating Estuary watersheds for steelhead restoration potential so that decision-makers and the public can direct 

financial and staff resources most efficiently. We have not included such a list here, since evaluation criteria have not been 

established and applied to the range of Bay Area watersheds. This step is necessary to minimize disagreement among stakeholders 

regarding disposition of resources. Several streams clearly will be important to regional O. mykiss recovery, however, including 

Alameda Creek in Alameda County, Coyote Creek in Santa Clara County, San Francisquito Creek in San Mateo County, Sonoma 

Creek in Sonoma County and the Napa River system (particularly Dry Creek) in Napa County. 

For each of these (and the other priority) watersheds, available information should be collected and analyzed to form the basis of 

a watershed assessment. (This process is well advanced in most Bay Area watersheds.) Completed assessments identify limiting 

factors to steelhead production in the watersheds, often including passage barriers, sedimentation, stream flow, and water quality. 

Enhancement plans for each priority watershed should be prepared to respond to the limiting factors cited in the assessment. The 

plans list barrier modifications, land use changes, in-stream flow and water quality considerations, and re-vegetation and other 
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projects necessary to meet restoration goals. Costs, responsibilities, and schedule should be assigned to the various elements of the 

enhancement plans.

Near-historical steelhead abundance levels are unlikely to be regained, even through an aggressive recovery program. However, 

we believe the priority watershed approach offers the highest chance of success in re-establishing a viable regional population. 

Our emphasis on priority watersheds should not be construed, however, as a lack of support for salmonid restoration projects 

in smaller watersheds, as such creek systems appear to have contributed substantially to overall numbers of steelhead using San 

Francisco Estuary tributaries. Increasing the number of Bay Area watersheds supporting regular steelhead runs will increase the 

resistance of the population to stresses caused by stochastic events.

Our study revealed a paucity of data regarding O. mykiss distribution in many San Francisco Estuary tributaries, with about 

100 instances (33 percent) of two or fewer surveys for specific streams. A total of 139 streams (46 percent) had no quantitative 

information available that could be used to characterize O. mykiss population features such as relative abundance, reproduction, 

anadromy, and others. As part of a program to recover steelhead in the Bay Area, we recommend creating a monitoring data 

clearinghouse through which O. mykiss distribution and abundance information is collected, stored, and analyzed. At a minimum, 

O. mykiss presence/absence surveys should be conducted every ten years in Bay Area streams. Various agencies including EBMUD, 

EBRPD, SFPUC, and SCVWD regularly collect such information for areas under their jurisdiction and appear willing to 

contribute to a regional data collection effort. However, large portions of the Bay Area are surveyed only when adequate funding 

becomes available to private organizations, or not at all. For “priority” streams, we suggest bi-annual monitoring to allow for 

trend analysis, for measuring the success of restoration activities, and for an adequate basis from which to perform adaptive 

management. The process of analysis and documentation recommended here will help ensure that costly or politically challenging 

restoration efforts are implemented along with smaller-scale projects.

We cite biological, cultural, and political bases for optimism regarding the recovery of Bay Area steelhead. First, the presence 

of remnant O. mykiss populations throughout San Francisco Estuary streams reflects the species’ vigor, particularly in terms of 

swimming ability and temperature tolerance, as well as the effectiveness of maintaining individuals with different life history traits 

and a range of migratory behaviors within a population. While cultural processes have led to highly-altered lower watershed areas 

in most San Francisco Estuary streams, the use of large portions of Bay Area headwaters for water supply, parks, and agricultural 

purposes has led to a relatively high degree of protection that favors steelhead restoration. Finally, the existence of several steelhead 

restoration processes involving multi-million dollar packages of projects (e.g., in Walnut, Alameda, Coyote, Stevens creeks, the 

Guadalupe River, and others) indicates a political climate favorable to recovery of the species. We note, however, that obtaining 

water supply for habitat purposes likely will constitute the greatest obstacle to long-term steelhead recovery in the region.
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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The production of this report was made possible by the collaboration of many funding organizations, fisheries scientists, and other 

contributors. Funding for this project was provided by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), the U.S. Environmental 

Protection Agency (EPA), the Contra Costa Fish and Wildlife Committee, the Alameda County Fish and Game Commission, the 

Santa Clara County Fish and Wildlife Committee, the San Mateo County Fish and Wildlife Commission, the Marin County Fish 

and Wildlife Committee, the As You Sow Foundation, the Rose Foundation for Communities and the Environment, the William 

H. Donner Foundation, the California State Coastal Conservancy, and the Center for Ecosystem Management and Restoration 

(CEMAR).

This project benefited from the substantial review and assistance of Gary Stern, NMFS; Erika Cleugh, Bill Cox, and John Emig, 

California Department of Fish and Game; Jim Hale, consulting biologist; Jeff Hagar, consulting biologist; Bert Mulchaey, Jose 

Setka, and Roger Hartwell, East Bay Municipal Utilities District; Pete Alexander, East Bay Regional Parks District; Jae Abel, 

Melissa Moore, and David Salsbery, Santa Clara Valley Water District; Prof. Sam McGinnis, CalState Univ. East Bay; Dr. Jerry 

Smith, CalState Univ. San Jose; Jim Johnson and Matt Stoecker, San Francisquito Watershed Council; Brian Sak, San Francisco 

Public Utilities Commission; Liz Lewis, Marin County Public Works Agency; Saskia van Gendt, CEMAR; Peggy Fiedler, W.C. 

Lee & Associates; Linda Chambers and Jim Howard, U.S. EPA Region IX GIS Center; Richard Dale, Lisa Micheli, and Will Pier, 

Sonoma Ecology Center; Chris Malan, Friend of Napa River; Jonathan Koehler, Napa County Resource Conservation District; 

and Dr. Charles Dewberry and Charles Steinback, ECOTRUST. To these and the many other report contributors not named here 

we express our deepest gratitude. Finally, this project was envisioned, nurtured, and pushed over the “finish line” by CEMAR’s 

Executive Director, Andy Gunther, to whom the authors dedicate the report.
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ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS

The following abbreviations and acronyms appear in this report:

ACCWP Alameda County Clean Water Program

ACDD Alameda Creek Diversion Dam

ACFCWCD Alameda County Flood Control and Water Conservation District

ACFRW Alameda Creek Fisheries Restoration Workgroup

CDFG California Department of Fish and Game

cm centimeters

Corps U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

DCE Design, Community, and Environment

DFG Department of Fish and Game

d/s downstream (from)

EBMUD East Bay Municipal Utilities District

EBRPD East Bay Regional Park District

FL Fork Length

FONR Friends of the Napa River

HES Hagar Environmental Science

HRG Habitat Restoration Group

HSA Harvey and Stanley Associates

Hwy. / I. Highway / Interstate

LLNL Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory

m meters

mi. miles

mm millimeters

Mt. Mount

NMFS National Marine Fisheries Service

pers. comm. personal communication

pp. pages

Rd. Road

RM River Mile

SCVWD Santa Clara Valley Water District

SFEI San Francisco Estuary Institute

SFPUC San Francisco Public Utilities Commission

SL Standard Length

St. Street

TL Total Length

u/s upstream (from)

USFWS U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

YOY young of the year