Difference between revisions of "The Carmel River Watershed"

From CCoWS Wiki
Jump to: navigation, search
(→‎Habitat)
(→‎Main Stem)
 
(96 intermediate revisions by 13 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
 +
An [[Summaries of Environmental Topics in California's Central Coast Region|environmental topic]], summarized by the [[ENVS 560/L Watershed Systems]] class at [http://csumb.edu CSUMB].
 +
 
[[Image: CarmelRiverWatershed.jpg|400px|thumb|right|Map of the Carmel River Watershed. Image: [http://www.mpwmd.dst.ca.us/mapgallery/Wtrshd2.jpg MPWMD.]]]  
 
[[Image: CarmelRiverWatershed.jpg|400px|thumb|right|Map of the Carmel River Watershed. Image: [http://www.mpwmd.dst.ca.us/mapgallery/Wtrshd2.jpg MPWMD.]]]  
  
−
Nestled between the Sierra de Salinas and Santa Lucia Mountain Ranges on the Central California Coast, the Carmel River Watershed is composed of countless small tributaries that all drain into the [[Carmel River]], eventually forming the [[Carmel River Lagoon]] at Carmel River beach, which periodically breaches into the Pacific Ocean.<ref name = CCOWS>[http://ccows.csumb.edu/pubs/reports/CCoWS_CRWC_CarmAssPhysHyd_041101.pdf Physical and Hydrologic Assessment of the Carmel River Watershed California]</ref>
+
Nestled between the Sierra de Salinas and Santa Lucia Mountain Ranges on the Central California Coast, the Carmel River [[Watershed]] is composed of countless small tributaries that all drain into the [[Carmel River]], eventually forming the [[Carmel River Lagoon]] at Carmel River beach, which periodically breaches into the Pacific Ocean.<ref name = CCOWS>[http://ccows.csumb.edu/pubs/reports/CCoWS_CRWC_CarmAssPhysHyd_041101.pdf Physical and Hydrologic Assessment of the Carmel River Watershed California]</ref>
  
 
== Location ==
 
== Location ==
−
 
+
The Carmel River Watershed encompasses 255 square miles in Monterey County on the Central Coast of California. The watershed drains into the [[Carmel River]] which runs through Carmel Valley and the City of Carmel before reaching the Pacific Ocean. The Santa Lucia mountains create the southern border of the watershed, and the Sierra de Salinas mountains are to the north. <ref> [http://www.mpwmd.dst.ca.us/programs/river/riparian_reports/RiparianReport_2009_Final.pdf MPWMD. T. Christensen and E. Geisler. 2009 Riparian Corridor Monitoring Report.] </ref>.
−
The Carmel watershed is the northernmost of a series of northwest-southeast trending valleys dissecting the rugged Santa Lucia mountains of the California Coast Ranges. The Sierra de Salinas forms the northeastern divide of the watershed and the northern terminus of the Santa Lucia Mountains forms the southwestern divide.<ref name = CCOWS/>
+
−
 
+
−
The watershed divides rise to approximately 1400 m (4500 ft) along the Sierra de Salinas and soar to 1500 m (4800 ft) along the Santa Lucia Range with Ventana Double Cone providing the maximum elevation of 1480 m (4853 ft). Water drains 656 km2 (256 mi2) of land, following both overland and subterranean routes to reach the coastal Carmel lagoon and eventually the Pacific Ocean. Characterization studies have divided the Carmel River Watershed into 25 subwatersheds based on natural topographic divides.<ref name = CCOWS/>
+
  
 
== Watershed Components ==
 
== Watershed Components ==
Line 13: Line 12:
 
=== Main Stem ===
 
=== Main Stem ===
 
[[Image: CarmelRiver_SchulteBridge.jpg|300px|thumb|right|Carmel River at Schulte Bridge.]]
 
[[Image: CarmelRiver_SchulteBridge.jpg|300px|thumb|right|Carmel River at Schulte Bridge.]]
 +
The Carmel River main stem is 36 miles long. With its headwaters in the [[Ventana Wilderness]], the upper river is characterized by steep canyons and is relatively undeveloped. The lower 16 miles of river run through moderate to highly developed areas along the alluvial valley before reaching the [[Carmel River Lagoon]] <ref> [http://www.epa.gov/region9/water/groundwater/gwswp-forum/files/Oliver.pdf Carmel River Watershed:Water Supply Perspective] </ref>. River flow is monitored by the Monterey Peninsula Water Management District at four main stem [http://www.mpwmd.dst.ca.us/wrd/riverflows/2013/2013.htm gaging sites].
  
 
=== Dams ===
 
=== Dams ===
 +
There are two dams on the Carmel River:
 
* [[Los Padres Dam]]
 
* [[Los Padres Dam]]
 
* [[San Clemente Dam]]
 
* [[San Clemente Dam]]
Line 20: Line 21:
 
=== Subwatersheds ===
 
=== Subwatersheds ===
  
−
The Carmel River Watershed incorporates a large range of annual precipitation throughout the watershed and complex geology that gives rise to a complex distribution of soil types, erosion rates, landslide potential, aquifers, recharge areas, ecosystems and human land use. For this reason, proper resource management practices may be very specific to certain watersheds rather than globally relevant.  Characterization studies have divided the watershed into 25 subwatersheds based on natural topographic and hydraulic divides.<ref name = CCOWS/> Listed below are links to some of the more prominent and issue oriented subwatersheds:
+
For ease of study, smaller drainages within the Carmel River Watershed have been identified. These drainages, or subwatersheds, are divided by topographic and hydraulic features <ref name = CCOWS/>. Listed below are links to some of the subwatersheds with prominent issues:
  
 
* [[Pine Creek]]
 
* [[Pine Creek]]
Line 33: Line 34:
 
=== Tributaries ===
 
=== Tributaries ===
  
−
The Monterey Peninsula Water Management District (James, 2004) maintains [[California Central Coast Gage Locations|stream guages]] on several of the tributaries in this region (Table 3). The tributaries generally flow in concert with the regional rainfall patterns (Fig. 21), but also show effects of groundwater influence.<ref name = CCOWS/>
+
The Monterey Peninsula Water Management District maintains [[California Central Coast Gage Locations|stream gages]] on several of the tributaries. There are numerous tributaries feeding the Carmel River including but not limited to:
 +
* Cachagua Creek
 +
* Pine Creek
 +
* San Clemente Creek
 +
* Tularcitos Creek
 +
* Hitchcock Creek
 +
* Garzas Creek
 +
* Robinson Canyon Creek
 +
* Potrero Creek
 +
* San Jose Creek
 +
<ref> [http://ecoviz.csumb.edu/wiki/index.php/Image:Carmel_MPWMD_Gages_Map_FromUnknownReport.jpg Carmel River Basin Principal Streamflow Gaging Stations] </ref>
  
 
=== Lagoon ===
 
=== Lagoon ===
−
The [[Carmel River Lagoon]] connects the [[Carmel River]] to the Pacific Ocean in winter months when flows are high. A sandbar forms and closes the river mouth during the late spring and summer months <ref> [http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=25124 California State Parks] </ref>.
 
  
−
Artificial breaching of the sandbar (Fig. 63) reduces the frequency of flooding the lagoon wetlands, potentially leading to a shift from freshwater to saline water invertebrate species in some areas of the lagoon. Breaching also lowers the water level artificially fast, potentially leaving steelhead stranded. However, a the would put in place flood and erosion controls that would allow the lagoon to breach naturally without damaging property.<ref name = CCOWS/>
+
The [[Carmel River]] connects to the Pacific Ocean through the [[Carmel River Lagoon]] in winter months when flows are high. In late spring and summer sediment deposits from the river, and offshore sand carried back to the beach by wave activity create a sand berm that closes the river mouth <ref> [https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&q=cache:q9TyL_d9KqUJ:www.mpwmd.dst.ca.us/mbay_irwm/irwm_library/CarmelBay/Littoral%2520Processes%2520pdf.pdf+&hl=en&gl=us&pid=bl&srcid=ADGEESiov4Cj8GdOWNkWNdjXJ6eqY1W7je7NThk9kvOq3QLXJhCYDhN5_5HJf3wf9aI6PfR3YR8_OS45dpU1f8yDqKZ9keVRYqTBpkLxWtPUA4t0TcTmer_gM3pgb-e95he6dTr7mnZm&sig=AHIEtbQUBIGpnyrFzjYu6hgSnNLHqe2XGQ Littoral Processes and Breachings at Carmel River Beach] </ref>. When the return of winter storms increase lagoon inflow, the lagoon approaches its natural breach point - a level that threatens to flood nearby homes. Currently the County of Monterey addresses the issue by taking emergency action and artificially breaching the lagoon. There are concerns about the effects of artificial breaching on sensitive lagoon species, notably [[Steelhead| Steelhead Trout]] <ref> [https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&q=cache:Wd4El8GgWRQJ:carmelriverwatershed.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Active_Projects_in_the_Carmel_River_Watershed.pdf+&hl=en&gl=us&pid=bl&srcid=ADGEEShKf29kZJ98VVB1chJZORXiUUNfSjaJ-d6PQsEZiNTZJi14uVVy39Zrfn53MEzBj5TgDNbUukqR6xn6DEAvyE0CNYJ-y2urYo-emUhkqSGnxrMSHqGJLxh8CvX61gQXJqAKY11_&sig=AHIEtbQhaBaz6SGBpRNNBqy4ZoE5rAvnDQ Active Projects in the Carmel River Watershed] </ref>. In addition, artificial lagoon breaching may cause a shift in species composition of the lagoon by altering the saline content <ref name = CCOWS/>. Potential lagoon projects address flooding and erosion control, and habitat restoration methods such as the addition of anchored logs to improve steelhead habitat <ref name = CCOWS/>. The [[Carmel River Floodplain Restoration and Environmental Enhancement (Carmel River FREE) Project]] would connect the floodplain east of Highway 1 to the Carmel River lagoon.
−
 
+
−
Excess sediment is filling the lagoon with fine material derived from the Carmel Watershed. As the lagoon, including the southern arm, fills in with sediment, there remain fewer deep-water pools and other hiding places for juvenile fish to escape predation. Improved habitat can be achieved through the use of anchored logs or other natural materials.<ref name = CCOWS/>
+
  
 
== Physical Characteristics ==
 
== Physical Characteristics ==
Line 46: Line 54:
  
 
=== Hydrology ===
 
=== Hydrology ===
−
 
+
Precipitation is transported as surface water throughout the watershed via surface water and groundwater pathways.  The continuous and complex interaction of groundwater and surface water pathways is determined by several factors, including geology, season, and extraction for human consumption.  Annual precipitation, which falls primarily as rain, ranges from 14 inches near the river mouth to 41 inches in the Santa Lucia Mountains.<ref name = CCOWS/>
−
Precipitation is the only source of water in the Carmel River Watershed and, the water that is not lost to evaporation and transpiration, is transported through the watershed through surface water and groundwater pathways dictated by local water abundance, geologic substrate, annual season, human consumption, and antecedent conditions.  Average annual precipitation falls mainly as rain, and varies between 14 inches at the mouth and 41 inches in the Santa Lucia Mountains.<ref name = CCOWS/>
+
  
 
==== Surface Water ====
 
==== Surface Water ====
  
−
Once water has reached the river channel, it has several potential sinks including groundwater withdrawals in the Carmel Valley, flow to the sea during winter months, evaporation from the stream surface, and transpiration and growth of streamside vegetation.<ref name = CCOWS/> Although most individual claims to water are an insignificant proportion of the watershed hydrologic budget, the collective effect of water use throughout the watershed has resulted in the stream being fully appropriated in summer months, leaving fish populations at risk.<ref name = CCOWS/>
+
Surface water in the Carmel River Watershed has several potential outflow pathways that include groudwater withdrawals, transpiration due to riparian vegetation, evaporation from the water surface, and outflow into the ocean.  Despite the relatively small size of individual water extraction claims compared to the entire watershed, the sum of all the water use has caused the stream to dry up during the summer months of certain years.  This overuse of water supplies pose risks to fish populations.<ref name = CCOWS/>
  
 
==== Groundwater ====
 
==== Groundwater ====
  
−
There are two types of aquifers present in the Carmel watershed. By far the most prolific water resource is the unconfined alluvial aquifer underlying the bed, floodplain, and terraces of the Carmel River.  The second resource comprises the myriad subtle bedrock aquifers in the complex geology underlying the hills rimming the watershed.  Whereas the capacity and hydraulics of the alluvial aquifer underlying the river is well assessed, the upland aquifers that supply the large ranches and a growing number of residences are more complex and less well understood. Of general interest to resource managers and developers is how much development (what extraction rate) those bedrock aquifers can sustain over the long hall, including periods of drought. Also of interest is the impact of upland water use on down-valley water supplies and riparian habitat.<ref name = CCOWS/>
+
The Carmel River Watershed is includes two aquifers: an unconfined alluvial aquifer and a combination of fractured beckrock aquifers located beneath the hills around the watershed.  Although the alluvial aquifer has been thoroughly assessed, the fractured bedrock aquifers that provide water resources to large ranches and residences are not well understood. An example of the recent increase in upland fractured bedrock aquifer extraction is the San Luicia Preserve, located on the former Rancho San Carlos property.<ref>[http://sep.csumb.edu/cwsp/theses/Croyle_Thesis_090422.pdf Analysis of Baseflow Trends Related to Upland Groundwater Pumping for Las Garzas, San Clemente, Potrero, and San Jose Creeks - Zachery Croyle Masters Thesis]</ref><ref name = CCOWS/>
  
 
=== Geology ===
 
=== Geology ===
  
−
Geology plays a first order role in determining the physical condition of the watershed and is a complex quilt of igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks in part stitched together by faults of varying ages.  The physical strength of the rocks and soils determine the erodibility, landslide potential, and ecosystem and land-use potential.  Tectonically, the Carmel Watershed is carved into the Salinian Block, a piece of crust that began its existence near the Mojave desert and moved northward, dragged by the Pacific plate for the past 20 million years.<ref name = CCOWS/>
+
The physical structure of the watershed is primarily dictated by the regional geology, which is composed of igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks.  The formations are broken up by several faults with a range of ages and activity.  Tectonically, the Carmel Watershed is carved into the Salinian block, which was transported north as part of the Pacific plate.  The underlying geology dictates the physical characteristics of the sediment, including the erodibility and [[Landslides and Debris Flows in the California Central Coast Region|landslide]] potential.<ref name = CCOWS/>
  
−
The Santa Lucia and Sierra de Salinas Ranges have experienced substantial uplift rates for the past two million years.  The uplift of the mountains keeps the rivers in a state of general downward incision. Many of the headwater streams and larger tributaries of the Carmel watershed occupy geologically youthful “V”-shaped canyons with sharp dividing ridges, this geometry leads to a naturally high sediment rate and a state of episodic down-cutting of the river channels. This kind of tectonically active, youthful terrain is commonly in balance with slope failure; bherefore, they are very susceptible to slope failure and extremely high sediment yield when disturbed and over steepened during road or subdivision grading.<ref name = CCOWS/>
+
The steep canyons in the headwaters of the Carmel watershed are indicative of recent and sharp incision of the upland streams and tributaries.  The high topographic gradient that leads to this incision is due to recent uplift of the Santa Lucia and Sierra de Salinas Ranges. These steep-sided canyons result in a high sediment yield as part of the incision. Additionally, the high gradient and rates of erosion make the terrain vulnerable to slope failure and [[Landslides and Debris Flows in the California Central Coast Region|landslides]].<ref name = CCOWS/>
  
−
Lowlands and valleys are typically created where less resistant material is preferentially eroded over a long time, leaving more resistant material as uplands and watershed divides.  The Carmel Watershed has physical landscape diversity because it is underlain by a wide range of soils and bedrock types, and because the landscape is cut by myriad active faults.  The Carmel Valley owes its character and location to ongoing erosion that has taken advantage of weak rock, crushed in splays of the still active Tularcitos fault zone.<ref name = CCOWS/>
+
The distribution of valleys and uplands are determined by preferential erosion of less resistive geologic materials.  Soils and bedrock that has been crushed in the active Tularcitos fault zone are less resistant to erosion, and therefore create the lowlands in the Carmel River Watershed while the more resistant, intact bedrock composes the uplands and ridges.<ref name = CCOWS/>
  
 
=== Sensitive Species Habitat ===
 
=== Sensitive Species Habitat ===
  
−
'''[[Steelhead]]
+
'''[[Steelhead]]:
−
The Carmel River is part of the South Central Steelhead Trout (SH), “Oncorhynchus mykiss” Evolutionary Significant Unit (ESU) and has historically supported a run of now federally listed steelhead.<ref name = CRWC>[http://carmelriverwatershed.org/work/watershed-assessment/ Carmel River Watershed Conservancy]</ref> However, the current steelhead population is below historic numbers for the Carmle river and is well below populations found in Northern California coastal streams. Likely factors contributing to this decline include habitat fragmentation and degradation, introduced non-native predator species, impaired fish passage, and water diversions that alter natural streamflows.<ref name = MPWMD> [http://carmelriverwatershed.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/321_CarmelRiver.pdf MPWMD Environmental and Biological Assessment of Portions of the Carmel River Watershed Monterey County, California]</ref>
+
The Carmel River supports habitat for the South Central Steelhead Trout Evoluationary Significant Unit and has and supported a run of the federally listed steelhead.  Unfortunately, the steelhead population has decreased compared to previous population numbers as well as other populations residing in Northern California streams. Factors such as habitat degredation, introduction of non-native species, and water diversions are likely components that have contributed to the decline. <ref name = MPWMD> [http://carmelriverwatershed.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/321_CarmelRiver.pdf MPWMD Environmental and Biological Assessment of Portions of the Carmel River Watershed Monterey County, California]</ref>
  
−
'''[[Red-legged Frogs]]
+
'''[[California Red-legged frog]]:
−
Although these frogs are found in many areas within the
+
The California red-legged frog is present in several areas in the Carmel River Watershed, however, the state of the population is largely unknown. The information regarding the red-legged frog in the watershed is confined to the lagoon and the main stem. <ref name = MPWMD/>
−
watershed, it is unclear whether the population is growing, shrinking, or stable. Most of the
+
−
information gathered about this species is from observations in the Carmel River lagoon, along
+
−
the main stem, and at San Clemente Reservoir.<ref name = MPWMD/>
+
  
 
== Issues ==
 
== Issues ==
−
[http://ecoviz.csumb.edu/wiki/index.php/Carmel_Watershed_Issues Watershed issues] in the Carmel Watershed are complex and diverse, involving many stakeholders representing many sometimes conflicting uses of water.
+
[[Carmel Watershed Issues|Watershed issues]] in the Carmel Watershed are complex and diverse, involving many stakeholders representing many conflicting uses of water.
−
* [[Carmel Watershed Issues]]
+
  
 
=== Water Supply ===
 
=== Water Supply ===
−
California American Water (CalAm) extracts water from wells along the river for use by the residents of the Monterey Peninsula, as described here: [[CalAm Use of Carmel River Groundwater Basin]]. CalAm is currently making illegal diversions from the Carmel River, according to California State Order 95-10, in order to meet the water demand of the community <ref> [http://www.mpwmd.dst.ca.us/order9510/order9510.htm CA State Order 95-10] </ref>. Water supply projects incorporating a desalination plant have been proposed by CalAm and local government agencies, as well as private parties <ref> [http://www.montereyherald.com/water/ci_21983313/none-three-desal-projects-would-reach-deadline-says?source=pkg Monterey County Herald] </ref>. The [[Monterey Peninsula Water Management District (MPWMD)]] has initiated Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) projects to capture and store excess winter flows for use during the summer months <ref> [http://www.mpwmd.dst.ca.us/asd/board/boardpacket/2011/20110825/ppt/item3_B.pdf MPWMD Water Supply Projects] </ref>.
+
California American Water (CalAm) extracts water from wells along the river for use by the residents of the Monterey Peninsula, as described here: [[CalAm Use of Carmel River Groundwater Basin]]. CalAm is currently making illegal diversions from the Carmel River, according to California State Order 95-10, in order to meet the water demand of the community <ref> [http://www.mpwmd.dst.ca.us/order9510/order9510.htm CA State Order 95-10] </ref>. Water supply projects incorporating a [[Desalination in the Central Coast | desalination]] plant have been proposed by CalAm and local government agencies, as well as private parties <ref> [http://www.montereyherald.com/water/ci_21983313/none-three-desal-projects-would-reach-deadline-says?source=pkg Monterey County Herald] </ref>. The [[Monterey Peninsula Water Management District (MPWMD)]] has initiated Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) projects to capture and store excess winter flows for use during the summer months <ref> [http://www.mpwmd.dst.ca.us/asd/board/boardpacket/2011/20110825/ppt/item3_B.pdf MPWMD Water Supply Projects] </ref>.
 +
Another water supply issue is related to the sedimentation of the [[Los Padres Reservoir Capacity Issues|Los Padres Reservoir]].  When the dam was constructed, it had an estimated capacity of 3,130 acre feet.  However, a recent study conducted by the CSUMB Watershed Institute measured the current capacity to be 1,785 acre feet.<ref>[http://ccows.csumb.edu/pubs/reports/CCoWS_MPWMD_LosPadres_StageVol_2008_090508.pdf Fall 2008 Stage-Volume Relationship for Los Padres Reservoir, Carmel River, California - CSUMB Watershed Institute]</ref>
  
 
=== Dam Removal ===
 
=== Dam Removal ===
  
−
Incremental motion between the Pacific and North American tectonic plates has periodically broken the crust in the Carmel Watershed.  Various studies have determined that several faults show evidence of motion in Quaternary time (< 2 million years) and some have moved much more recently. The trace of the Cachagua fault is covered by the sediment stored in [[San Clemente Dam]] and it is estimated that a severe earthquake with a magnitude of up to 7.1 could hit the basin on the Tularcitos fault system, which is not far away.  Therefore, San Clemente Dam is among the least safe in California.  In addition to seismic hazard, sedimentation issues also drive efforts to promote dam removal.<ref name = CCOWS/>
+
The [[San Clemente Dam]] was a 106-foot high concrete dam located just downstream of the convergence of the San Clemente Creek with the Carmel River owned by [[California American Water Company (CalAm)]]. Built in 1921, the dam had an initial storage capacity of 1,425 acre-feet, which had been reduced to 70 acre-feet by 2008 due to siltation <ref name = SCDRP> [http://www.sanclementedamremoval.org/?page_id=43 San Clemente Dam Removal Project] </ref>.
 +
 
 +
The California Department of Water Resources (CDWR) Division of the Safety of Dams determined in the early 1990s that the dam could fail in a large earthquake or flood <ref name = SCDRP/>. It has been estimated that an earthquake with a magnitude of up to 7.1 could hit the Tularcitos fault system, with the system's Cachagua fault running beneath the San Clemente reservoir <ref name = CCOWS/>.
 +
[[Image: SanClementeDam.jpg|400px|thumb|right|San Clemente Dam.]]
 +
 
 +
Due to concerns about steelhead habitat impairment and seismic safety concerns the dam was commissioned to be removed in 2013. This initiated the Carmel River Reroute and Dam Removal (CRRDR) Project that was completed in 2016.
  
 
=== Erosion ===
 
=== Erosion ===
  
−
The chief erosive processes in the Carmel Valley are bedrock landslides, shallow soil slips, rock fall, stream incision and widening, and slope gullying.  Grading for roads and buildings locally over-steepens these slopes, greatly accelerating the rate of slope failure and erosion. For this reason, nearly the entire Carmel Watershed is rated as highly susceptible to erosion.  However, sediment sources that maintain fish spawning habitat are impeded by the San Clemente and Los Padres dams, reducing their capacity to 90% and 50%, respectively. Additionally, in response to sediment starvation, the river channel has cut downward into its bed several meters, leaving a generally narrower, single-thread channel, with a well-defined riparian corridor.<ref name = CCOWS/>
+
Sediment movement in the Carmel River Watershed has been impaired by the presence of the Los Padres and San Clemente Dams. Trapping of sediment at the reservoirs has led to incised channels downstream, destabilized banks, and accelerated erosion rates <ref> [https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&q=cache:mHb6q2mr91gJ:www.scc.ca.gov/webmaster/ftp/pdf/sanclemente/san_clemente_sm.pdf+&hl=en&gl=us&pid=bl&srcid=ADGEESgI7g20F-LERzZyekWVdAnrV28OXZhBVXJcUce01XSlbUGM6--2d9oQcM6yS0iTnjgLCUSuXVy8YSFuJjqvdpg5PNa-yx_P_3wTwnCDdpWap9ddAGlAfRjHBahAVmjfnS0ol_NO&sig=AHIEtbR40NRLBMrXm4iCjo_D0syDaY9HCg NOAA and the State Coastal Conservancy - Restoring the Carmel River] </ref>. In addition, grading for urban development in the densely populated lower river valley has created unnaturally steep slopes that further increase the rate of erosion along the river banks. The majority of the watershed is considered vulnerable to erosion <ref name = CCOWS/>.
  
 
=== Flooding ===
 
=== Flooding ===
  
−
The greatest flood during the 48 years of the Rio Robles Stream Gauge operation was the 1995 flood with approximately 16,000 cfs. That event roughly corresponds to the 65-year flood. The next highest flood caused significant damage in 1998 with a 14,700 cfs flow.
+
Flooding in the Carmel River Watershed has caused significant damage in the past due to the heavily populated urban areas built within the 100-year flood zone <ref name = CCOWS/>. In 1995 there were over 2,720 evacuations, and 800 residences, 68 businesses, 62 roads, and 3 bridges were damaged due to a flood of approximately 16,000 cfs (estimated to be the 65-year flood) <ref>[http://www.mcwra.co.monterey.ca.us/Floodplain%20Management/Historical%20Flooding.htm MCWRA - Historic Flooding] </ref> <ref name = CCOWS/>. In 1998 a flood of 14,700 cfs flow again caused considerable damage in the Carmel River Watershed <ref name = CCOWS/>. The [[Monterey County Water Resources Agency]] provides details of historic flooding in the region dating back to 1911 [http://www.mcwra.co.monterey.ca.us/Floodplain%20Management/Historical%20Flooding.htm here].
−
As determined by Monterey County, construction of structures, grading, or any activity that requires a permit from a government agency shall not be permitted within 200 feet of a riverbank or within the 100-year floodplain (floodway), unless a special permit is granted. Although the regulatory boundary of the Carmel 100-year flood is clearly defined by the County of Monterey (Monterey County Zoning Ordinance, 21.64.130), the true position of that river shoreline is highly imprecise. Extensive urbanization from the narrows to the mouth of the Carmel River lies within the 100-year floodplain, leaving Carmel residents and businesses at risk of significant loss.<ref name = CCOWS/>
+
  
 
== Projects ==
 
== Projects ==
 +
Carmel River Watershed project include (this is an incomplete list):
 +
* Carmel River Lagoon Restoration Plan <ref>[http://www.co.monterey.ca.us/planning/major/EPB%20and%20Scenic%20Road%20Protection/2487.02%20Scenic%20Rd%20Memo%2020130225-v5.pdf Carmel River Lagoon Restoration Plan]</ref>
 +
* [http://www.mpwmd.dst.ca.us/programs/river/restprojs/restprojs.htm MPWMD Restoration Projects]
 +
* [http://www.bigsurlandtrust.org/communities/story/1-the-carmel-river-parkway-an-overview Big Sur Land Trust - Carmel River Parkway Plan]
 +
* [https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&q=cache:Wd4El8GgWRQJ:carmelriverwatershed.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Active_Projects_in_the_Carmel_River_Watershed.pdf+&hl=en&gl=us&pid=bl&srcid=ADGEEShKf29kZJ98VVB1chJZORXiUUNfSjaJ-d6PQsEZiNTZJi14uVVy39Zrfn53MEzBj5TgDNbUukqR6xn6DEAvyE0CNYJ-y2urYo-emUhkqSGnxrMSHqGJLxh8CvX61gQXJqAKY11_&sig=AHIEtbQhaBaz6SGBpRNNBqy4ZoE5rAvnDQ Active Projects in the Carmel River Watershed]
 +
* [[Carmel River Floodplain Restoration and Environmental Enhancement (Carmel River FREE) Project]]
  
−
* Carmel River Lagoon Restoration Plan <ref>[http://www.co.monterey.ca.us/planning/major/EPB%20and%20Scenic%20Road%20Protection/2487.02%20Scenic%20Rd%20Memo%2020130225-v5.pdf Carmel River Lagoon Restoration Plan]</ref>
+
== Jurisdictions ==
−
* Carmel River Restoration Projects carried out by MPWMD <ref> [http://www.mpwmd.dst.ca.us/programs/river/restprojs/restprojs.htm MPWMD Restoration Projects] </ref>.
+
'''Counties within the watershed'''
−
* Carmel River Parkway Plan for river restoration, education, and trails <ref>[http://www.bigsurlandtrust.org/communities/story/1-the-carmel-river-parkway-an-overview Big Sur Land Trust - Carmel River Parkway Plan] </ref>.
+
* [[Monterey County]]
−
* ...
+
'''Cities within the watershed'''
 +
* City of Carmel
 +
* Unincorporated areas of Carmel Valley
 +
'''Cities supplied by water resources from the watershed'''
 +
* City of Carmel
 +
* Unincorporated areas of Carmel Valley
 +
* Pebble Beach
 +
* City of Pacific Grove
 +
* City of Monterey
 +
* City of [[Del Rey Oaks]]
 +
* [[City of Seaside]]
 +
'''Organizations with authority in the watershed'''
 +
* [[Monterey County]]
 +
* [[Monterey Peninsula Water Management District]]
 +
*...
  
 
== Stakeholders ==
 
== Stakeholders ==
 +
Several organizations and groups have a vested interest in the Carmel River Watershed:
  
 
* [[Monterey Peninsula Water Management District (MPWMD)]]
 
* [[Monterey Peninsula Water Management District (MPWMD)]]
Line 109: Line 138:
 
* [[Monterey County Water Resources Agency]]
 
* [[Monterey County Water Resources Agency]]
 
* [[Carmel River Steelhead Association (CRSA)]]
 
* [[Carmel River Steelhead Association (CRSA)]]
 +
* [[Carmel River Watershed Conservancy (CRWC)]]
 +
* National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
 +
* Carmel Valley residents
 +
* [[City of Carmel]]
 +
* [[Pebble Beach]]
 +
* [[City of Monterey]]
 +
* [[City of Seaside]]
 +
* [[City of Del Rey Oaks]]
 +
* [[City of Pacific Grove]]
 +
* Carmel Area Wastewater District
 +
* [[Big Sur Land Trust]]
 +
* Monterey County Public Works
 +
* California State Parks
 +
* Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District
 +
* Resource Conservation District of Monterey County
 +
* CSUMB [[Watershed Institute]]
 +
* Planning & Conservation League Foundation
 +
* Ventana Wildlife Society
 
* ...
 
* ...
  
 
== Timeline ==
 
== Timeline ==
 
Listed below is a brief timeline of water rights and dam operation in the Carmel River Watershed.  A more exhaustive timeline is availabe at [http://carmelriverwatershed.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/Carmel-River-History_final-amendedLMH.pdf Carmel River History].
 
Listed below is a brief timeline of water rights and dam operation in the Carmel River Watershed.  A more exhaustive timeline is availabe at [http://carmelriverwatershed.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/Carmel-River-History_final-amendedLMH.pdf Carmel River History].
−
* '''1883''' First known dam on the river created ½ mile below site of the current San Clemente Dam.
+
* '''1883''' The first dam on record the Carmel River is created near the current San Clemente Dam.<ref name = timeline>[http://carmelriverwatershed.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/Carmel-River-History_final-amendedLMH.pdf Carmel River History]</ref>
−
* '''1905''' To increase capacity, Pacific Imp. drills six wells near the lower end of Laureles Ranch, installs pumps
+
* '''1921''' The San Clemente Dam is completed with the purpose of providing water to the population on the Monterey Peninsula.<ref name = CalAm>[http://www.amwater.com/caaw/customer-service/rates-information/monterey-san-clemente-dam-removal-project.html California American Water San Clemente Dam Removal Project]</ref>
−
capable of drawing 2M gallons per day, and begins installing a larger pipe thru the valley and around the
+
* '''1939''' CW&T (California Water & Telephone) distributes water resources to 7,430 customers and irrigates 5 golf courses.<ref name = timeline/>
−
peninsula.
+
* '''1949''' [[Los Padres Dam]] is constructed to provide additional water storage to supplement the San Clemente Dam. <ref name = timeline/>
−
* '''1919''' S.F.B. Morse forms the Del Monte Properties Co. and purchases Pacific Improvement Co.’s Monterey
+
* '''1966''' [[California-America Water Company (Cal-Am)]] is created by American Water Works Company to oversee CW&T system. <ref name = timeline/>
−
holdings for $1.3M.
+
* '''1977''' [[Monterey Peninsula Water Management District (MPWMD)]] created to manage, augment, and protect water resources for the benefit of the community and the environment.
−
* '''1921''' Carmel River becomes site of several mining operations along the lower river, including the Carmel  
+
* '''1996''' ESA listing (threatened status) of the red legged frog (Rana aurora draytinii).<ref>[http://ecos.fws.gov/speciesProfile/profile/speciesProfile.action?spcode=D02D USFWS Red-Legged Frog Species Profile]</ref>
−
River lagoon
+
* '''1997''' ESA listing (threatened) on steelhead trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) on the central California Coast.<ref>[http://ecos.fws.gov/speciesProfile/profile/speciesProfile.action?spcode=E08D USFWS Steelhead Trout Species Profile]</ref>
−
* '''1930''' Morse sells water system to Chester Loveland.
+
* '''2008''' [http://www.water.ca.gov/ California Department of Water Resources] approves the Carmel River Reroute and San Clemente Dam project.<ref name = SCDRP/>
−
* '''1931''' Loveland raises water rates. Proponents of a public ownership estimate the cost at $1.8-$2M to
+
* '''2009''' [http://www.swrcb.ca.gov/ The California State Water Resources Control Board] issues a cease-and-desist order that directs Cal-Am to stop overpumping withing the Carmel River.<ref>[http://www.montereycountyweekly.com/news/2009/oct/21/water-block/ Monterey County Weekly - State water board approves cease-and-desist order against Cal Am.]</ref>
−
purchase water rights. First debate over public, or private water, management.
+
−
* '''1935''' Public ownership of water supply defeated 2 to 1.
+
−
* '''1939''' CW&T provides water to 7,430 Peninsula customers, irrigates 5 golf courses and services a growing
+
−
sardine cannery industry.
+
−
* '''1947''' San Clemente Dam is 25% silted. A filter plant opens near San Clemente Dam, improving water
+
−
quality. CW&T releases plans for the Los Padres dam, along with other improvements. Total cost $1.4M.
+
−
Application for 19,000 af per year storage capacity was objected by steelhead fishermen and farmers. SWRCB
+
−
grants 6,000 af per year and limits season of diversion to 10/1-5/31.
+
−
* '''1953''' Flood event. Rainfall at Los Padres dam was 2.11 inches in 24 hours and Carmel Valley received 1.48
+
−
inches.
+
−
Carmel Valley residents compare the 1958 flood to the 1995 and 1998 floods.
+
−
* '''1959''' Monterey Peninsula Water Mgmt. District initiates efforts to buy out CW&T.
+
−
* '''1965''' In the September election, the measure was defeated 10,766 to 3,053. Loveland sells CW&T to
+
−
American Water Works Company.
+
−
* '''1966''' American Water Works Company creates California-American Water Co. to manage the operations of
+
−
CW&T systems.
+
−
* '''1970''' Cal-Am announces Peninsula water shortage. Current use is at 15,000 af per year. Cal-Am proposes a
+
−
dam in two stages.
+
−
* '''1971''' Cachagua dam project abandoned. A new San Clemente dam is proposed that would create a 40,000
+
−
af reservoir and yield 21,000 af per year. Army Corp. of Engineers recommends a flood control component
+
−
versus the original dam.
+
−
* '''1977''' Monterey Peninsula Water Management District is created to augment, protect and manage water  
+
−
resources
+
−
* '''1995''' Vote to fund construction and operation of the new Los Padres dam project is rejected 57% to 43%.
+
−
* '''1996''' ESA listing (threatened) on the red legged frog (Rana aurora draytinii).
+
−
* '''1997''' ESA listing (threatened) on steelhead trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss).
+
−
 
+
−
== CSUMB Courses Relevant to the Carmel Watershed ==
+
−
 
+
−
* [[S:ENVS 560/L Watershed Systems|ENVS 560/L Watershed Systems]]
+
−
* [[S:ENVS 660/L Advanced Watershed Science and Policy|ENVS 660/L Advanced Watershed Science and Policy]]
+
−
* ...
+
  
 
== References ==
 
== References ==
Line 163: Line 178:
 
* [[Maps of the Carmel River Watershed]]
 
* [[Maps of the Carmel River Watershed]]
 
* [[California Central Coast Gage Locations]]
 
* [[California Central Coast Gage Locations]]
 +
* [[Carmel Valley Aquifer]]
 
* [[Carmel River Lagoon]]
 
* [[Carmel River Lagoon]]
 +
* [[Carmel River Floodplain Restoration and Environmental Enhancement (Carmel River FREE) Project]]
 +
* Carmel River Steelhead Association
 
* [[San Clemente Dam]]
 
* [[San Clemente Dam]]
 +
* [[Carmel River Watershed: Garzas Creek and Carmel River Flow Duration Analysis]]
 
* Reservoirs
 
* Reservoirs
 
** Los Padres Reservoir
 
** Los Padres Reservoir
Line 173: Line 192:
 
*** [http://ccows.csumb.edu/home/proj/2003/crwa/crwa.htm Poster map set]
 
*** [http://ccows.csumb.edu/home/proj/2003/crwa/crwa.htm Poster map set]
 
* [[EcoViz:SEP_Focus_Sites]]
 
* [[EcoViz:SEP_Focus_Sites]]
 +
*[[Basin-Indians Fire Erosion and Debris Flows]]
 +
*[[Desalination in the Central Coast]]
 +
 
=Disclaimer=
 
=Disclaimer=
 
This page may contain student work completed as part of assigned coursework. It may not be accurate. It does not necessary reflect the opinion or policy of CSUMB, its staff, or students.
 
This page may contain student work completed as part of assigned coursework. It may not be accurate. It does not necessary reflect the opinion or policy of CSUMB, its staff, or students.

Latest revision as of 10:51, 5 March 2021

An environmental topic, summarized by the ENVS 560/L Watershed Systems class at CSUMB.

Map of the Carmel River Watershed. Image: MPWMD.

Nestled between the Sierra de Salinas and Santa Lucia Mountain Ranges on the Central California Coast, the Carmel River Watershed is composed of countless small tributaries that all drain into the Carmel River, eventually forming the Carmel River Lagoon at Carmel River beach, which periodically breaches into the Pacific Ocean.[1]

Location

The Carmel River Watershed encompasses 255 square miles in Monterey County on the Central Coast of California. The watershed drains into the Carmel River which runs through Carmel Valley and the City of Carmel before reaching the Pacific Ocean. The Santa Lucia mountains create the southern border of the watershed, and the Sierra de Salinas mountains are to the north. [2].

Watershed Components

Main Stem

Carmel River at Schulte Bridge.

The Carmel River main stem is 36 miles long. With its headwaters in the Ventana Wilderness, the upper river is characterized by steep canyons and is relatively undeveloped. The lower 16 miles of river run through moderate to highly developed areas along the alluvial valley before reaching the Carmel River Lagoon [3]. River flow is monitored by the Monterey Peninsula Water Management District at four main stem gaging sites.

Dams

There are two dams on the Carmel River:

Subwatersheds

For ease of study, smaller drainages within the Carmel River Watershed have been identified. These drainages, or subwatersheds, are divided by topographic and hydraulic features [1]. Listed below are links to some of the subwatersheds with prominent issues:

Tributaries

The Monterey Peninsula Water Management District maintains stream gages on several of the tributaries. There are numerous tributaries feeding the Carmel River including but not limited to:

  • Cachagua Creek
  • Pine Creek
  • San Clemente Creek
  • Tularcitos Creek
  • Hitchcock Creek
  • Garzas Creek
  • Robinson Canyon Creek
  • Potrero Creek
  • San Jose Creek

[4]

Lagoon

The Carmel River connects to the Pacific Ocean through the Carmel River Lagoon in winter months when flows are high. In late spring and summer sediment deposits from the river, and offshore sand carried back to the beach by wave activity create a sand berm that closes the river mouth [5]. When the return of winter storms increase lagoon inflow, the lagoon approaches its natural breach point - a level that threatens to flood nearby homes. Currently the County of Monterey addresses the issue by taking emergency action and artificially breaching the lagoon. There are concerns about the effects of artificial breaching on sensitive lagoon species, notably Steelhead Trout [6]. In addition, artificial lagoon breaching may cause a shift in species composition of the lagoon by altering the saline content [1]. Potential lagoon projects address flooding and erosion control, and habitat restoration methods such as the addition of anchored logs to improve steelhead habitat [1]. The Carmel River Floodplain Restoration and Environmental Enhancement (Carmel River FREE) Project would connect the floodplain east of Highway 1 to the Carmel River lagoon.

Physical Characteristics

Hydrology

Precipitation is transported as surface water throughout the watershed via surface water and groundwater pathways. The continuous and complex interaction of groundwater and surface water pathways is determined by several factors, including geology, season, and extraction for human consumption. Annual precipitation, which falls primarily as rain, ranges from 14 inches near the river mouth to 41 inches in the Santa Lucia Mountains.[1]

Surface Water

Surface water in the Carmel River Watershed has several potential outflow pathways that include groudwater withdrawals, transpiration due to riparian vegetation, evaporation from the water surface, and outflow into the ocean. Despite the relatively small size of individual water extraction claims compared to the entire watershed, the sum of all the water use has caused the stream to dry up during the summer months of certain years. This overuse of water supplies pose risks to fish populations.[1]

Groundwater

The Carmel River Watershed is includes two aquifers: an unconfined alluvial aquifer and a combination of fractured beckrock aquifers located beneath the hills around the watershed. Although the alluvial aquifer has been thoroughly assessed, the fractured bedrock aquifers that provide water resources to large ranches and residences are not well understood. An example of the recent increase in upland fractured bedrock aquifer extraction is the San Luicia Preserve, located on the former Rancho San Carlos property.[7][1]

Geology

The physical structure of the watershed is primarily dictated by the regional geology, which is composed of igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks. The formations are broken up by several faults with a range of ages and activity. Tectonically, the Carmel Watershed is carved into the Salinian block, which was transported north as part of the Pacific plate. The underlying geology dictates the physical characteristics of the sediment, including the erodibility and landslide potential.[1]

The steep canyons in the headwaters of the Carmel watershed are indicative of recent and sharp incision of the upland streams and tributaries. The high topographic gradient that leads to this incision is due to recent uplift of the Santa Lucia and Sierra de Salinas Ranges. These steep-sided canyons result in a high sediment yield as part of the incision. Additionally, the high gradient and rates of erosion make the terrain vulnerable to slope failure and landslides.[1]

The distribution of valleys and uplands are determined by preferential erosion of less resistive geologic materials. Soils and bedrock that has been crushed in the active Tularcitos fault zone are less resistant to erosion, and therefore create the lowlands in the Carmel River Watershed while the more resistant, intact bedrock composes the uplands and ridges.[1]

Sensitive Species Habitat

Steelhead: The Carmel River supports habitat for the South Central Steelhead Trout Evoluationary Significant Unit and has and supported a run of the federally listed steelhead. Unfortunately, the steelhead population has decreased compared to previous population numbers as well as other populations residing in Northern California streams. Factors such as habitat degredation, introduction of non-native species, and water diversions are likely components that have contributed to the decline. [8]

California Red-legged frog: The California red-legged frog is present in several areas in the Carmel River Watershed, however, the state of the population is largely unknown. The information regarding the red-legged frog in the watershed is confined to the lagoon and the main stem. [8]

Issues

Watershed issues in the Carmel Watershed are complex and diverse, involving many stakeholders representing many conflicting uses of water.

Water Supply

California American Water (CalAm) extracts water from wells along the river for use by the residents of the Monterey Peninsula, as described here: CalAm Use of Carmel River Groundwater Basin. CalAm is currently making illegal diversions from the Carmel River, according to California State Order 95-10, in order to meet the water demand of the community [9]. Water supply projects incorporating a desalination plant have been proposed by CalAm and local government agencies, as well as private parties [10]. The Monterey Peninsula Water Management District (MPWMD) has initiated Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) projects to capture and store excess winter flows for use during the summer months [11]. Another water supply issue is related to the sedimentation of the Los Padres Reservoir. When the dam was constructed, it had an estimated capacity of 3,130 acre feet. However, a recent study conducted by the CSUMB Watershed Institute measured the current capacity to be 1,785 acre feet.[12]

Dam Removal

The San Clemente Dam was a 106-foot high concrete dam located just downstream of the convergence of the San Clemente Creek with the Carmel River owned by California American Water Company (CalAm). Built in 1921, the dam had an initial storage capacity of 1,425 acre-feet, which had been reduced to 70 acre-feet by 2008 due to siltation [13].

The California Department of Water Resources (CDWR) Division of the Safety of Dams determined in the early 1990s that the dam could fail in a large earthquake or flood [13]. It has been estimated that an earthquake with a magnitude of up to 7.1 could hit the Tularcitos fault system, with the system's Cachagua fault running beneath the San Clemente reservoir [1].

San Clemente Dam.

Due to concerns about steelhead habitat impairment and seismic safety concerns the dam was commissioned to be removed in 2013. This initiated the Carmel River Reroute and Dam Removal (CRRDR) Project that was completed in 2016.

Erosion

Sediment movement in the Carmel River Watershed has been impaired by the presence of the Los Padres and San Clemente Dams. Trapping of sediment at the reservoirs has led to incised channels downstream, destabilized banks, and accelerated erosion rates [14]. In addition, grading for urban development in the densely populated lower river valley has created unnaturally steep slopes that further increase the rate of erosion along the river banks. The majority of the watershed is considered vulnerable to erosion [1].

Flooding

Flooding in the Carmel River Watershed has caused significant damage in the past due to the heavily populated urban areas built within the 100-year flood zone [1]. In 1995 there were over 2,720 evacuations, and 800 residences, 68 businesses, 62 roads, and 3 bridges were damaged due to a flood of approximately 16,000 cfs (estimated to be the 65-year flood) [15] [1]. In 1998 a flood of 14,700 cfs flow again caused considerable damage in the Carmel River Watershed [1]. The Monterey County Water Resources Agency provides details of historic flooding in the region dating back to 1911 here.

Projects

Carmel River Watershed project include (this is an incomplete list):

Jurisdictions

Counties within the watershed

Cities within the watershed

  • City of Carmel
  • Unincorporated areas of Carmel Valley

Cities supplied by water resources from the watershed

  • City of Carmel
  • Unincorporated areas of Carmel Valley
  • Pebble Beach
  • City of Pacific Grove
  • City of Monterey
  • City of Del Rey Oaks
  • City of Seaside

Organizations with authority in the watershed

Stakeholders

Several organizations and groups have a vested interest in the Carmel River Watershed:

Timeline

Listed below is a brief timeline of water rights and dam operation in the Carmel River Watershed. A more exhaustive timeline is availabe at Carmel River History.

  • 1883 The first dam on record the Carmel River is created near the current San Clemente Dam.[17]
  • 1921 The San Clemente Dam is completed with the purpose of providing water to the population on the Monterey Peninsula.[18]
  • 1939 CW&T (California Water & Telephone) distributes water resources to 7,430 customers and irrigates 5 golf courses.[17]
  • 1949 Los Padres Dam is constructed to provide additional water storage to supplement the San Clemente Dam. [17]
  • 1966 California-America Water Company (Cal-Am) is created by American Water Works Company to oversee CW&T system. [17]
  • 1977 Monterey Peninsula Water Management District (MPWMD) created to manage, augment, and protect water resources for the benefit of the community and the environment.
  • 1996 ESA listing (threatened status) of the red legged frog (Rana aurora draytinii).[19]
  • 1997 ESA listing (threatened) on steelhead trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) on the central California Coast.[20]
  • 2008 California Department of Water Resources approves the Carmel River Reroute and San Clemente Dam project.[13]
  • 2009 The California State Water Resources Control Board issues a cease-and-desist order that directs Cal-Am to stop overpumping withing the Carmel River.[21]

References

  1. ↑ 1.00 1.01 1.02 1.03 1.04 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.09 1.10 1.11 1.12 1.13 1.14 Physical and Hydrologic Assessment of the Carmel River Watershed California
  2. ↑ MPWMD. T. Christensen and E. Geisler. 2009 Riparian Corridor Monitoring Report.
  3. ↑ Carmel River Watershed:Water Supply Perspective
  4. ↑ Carmel River Basin Principal Streamflow Gaging Stations
  5. ↑ Littoral Processes and Breachings at Carmel River Beach
  6. ↑ Active Projects in the Carmel River Watershed
  7. ↑ Analysis of Baseflow Trends Related to Upland Groundwater Pumping for Las Garzas, San Clemente, Potrero, and San Jose Creeks - Zachery Croyle Masters Thesis
  8. ↑ 8.0 8.1 MPWMD Environmental and Biological Assessment of Portions of the Carmel River Watershed Monterey County, California
  9. ↑ CA State Order 95-10
  10. ↑ Monterey County Herald
  11. ↑ MPWMD Water Supply Projects
  12. ↑ Fall 2008 Stage-Volume Relationship for Los Padres Reservoir, Carmel River, California - CSUMB Watershed Institute
  13. ↑ 13.0 13.1 13.2 San Clemente Dam Removal Project
  14. ↑ NOAA and the State Coastal Conservancy - Restoring the Carmel River
  15. ↑ MCWRA - Historic Flooding
  16. ↑ Carmel River Lagoon Restoration Plan
  17. ↑ 17.0 17.1 17.2 17.3 Carmel River History
  18. ↑ California American Water San Clemente Dam Removal Project
  19. ↑ USFWS Red-Legged Frog Species Profile
  20. ↑ USFWS Steelhead Trout Species Profile
  21. ↑ Monterey County Weekly - State water board approves cease-and-desist order against Cal Am.

Links

Disclaimer

This page may contain student work completed as part of assigned coursework. It may not be accurate. It does not necessary reflect the opinion or policy of CSUMB, its staff, or students.

Retrieved from "http://ccows.csumb.edu/wiki/index.php?title=The_Carmel_River_Watershed&oldid=28434"