The Trinity River (the longest tributary of the Klamath River) runs for approximately 130 miles through California’s northwest region. A designated National Wild and Scenic River, the Trinity flows swiftly through tight canyons and mountain meadows, providing world-class opportunities for fly fishing, rafting, and other outdoor activities. The Trinity River and Lower Klamath River basins have been home to Native American tribes for thousands of years and still serve as a resource for members of the Hoopa Valley and Yurok tribes.

The Trinity once supported large salmon and steelhead runs, but due to habitat alteration and water diversion, fish populations have declined by some 80% from historic levels. ALC is partnering with federal agencies and private landowners to conserve a 42-mile stretch of the Trinity River and support restoration of fish and wildlife habitat.

Project Activities

• Help create contiguous wildlife habitat and restore degraded habitat within a reach of approximately 42 miles, from Lewiston to Helena
• Protect river ecosystems through land purchases and conservation agreements with private landowners
• Support the Bureau of Reclamation’s Trinity River Restoration Program
• Increase public awareness of the natural resource benefits of the Trinity River, the conservation challenges it faces, current restoration efforts, and the need for habitat protection

Benefits

• Increases public access to one of California’s most scenic rivers
• Improves spawning and rearing grounds for what was once one of the largest salmon and steelhead stocks in the country
• Allows for restoration of river bank vegetation, which enhances water quality and benefits wildlife that depend on the river corridor
• Supports regional economies by enhancing fishing and outdoor recreation opportunities