The same practices benefit upland pastures by lessening erosion and increasing water absorption. It's not very edible, it doesn't provide fantastic life-saving drugs from its swim bladder. The fish in Salmon Creek could be eaten if there were enough of them. More important, I feel they serve as a gauge that we can use to measure our efforts as stewards of the land that has blessed those before us and will bless those to come. If we can do a little to help the fish, I believe we do a lot to help ourselves.
Interdependency produces a win-win situation for fish and man.
To undertake creek restoration requires some appreciation for the natural resources of a watershed and the willingness to put in one's own time. It pays off by helping maintain the land value over the long haul and it is enjoyable to tinker around and see the results. Voluntary action now may prevent future mandatory land use restrictions aimed at preserving some little fish at whose purpose we wonder. For quick and easy reading on stream restoration and erosion control, have a look at Groundwork, A Handbook for Erosion Control in North Coast California and Creek Care . Both books are available from the Marin RCD or the UC Extension Service.