Bidwell Reach 2 Restoration Project

This is a Big Chico Creek restoration project that will take place in the summer and fall of 2008. The project area is along Big Chico Creek west of Nord Ave., on both sides of the creek starting at the big meander near Bidwell River Park, downstream to the Rose Ave. Bridge.

This project includes using “biotechnical” streambank stabilization to address the erosion that is threatening homes and Bidwell Avenue. Biotechnical approaches incorporate hard structures and native vegetation that work with a stream’s natural functions while reducing bank erosion. The project also includes a technique called “floodplain excavation” where terraces are created when existing steep banks constrict the stream. These terraces allow the stream to spread out at high flows, which reduces flow velocity, flood peaks, settles sediments, improves water quality and allows native, streamside vegetation to flourish.

This project is being implemented by the Alliance, Streaminders and CSU, Chico Research Foundation pursuant to $335,000 in grant funding from the State Water Resources Control Board under Proposition 50.

To receive occasional emails about the status of this project, send an email to coordinator AT bigchicocreek.org.