Eagle Canyon Fish Passage Project, Battle Creek

This project directly benefits one of the world’s most endangered ecotypes of anadromous salmon – winter-run Chinook salmon. This run or ecotype is found only in California and has a life history strategy and genetic signature that is found nowhere else on the planet. Sacramento River winter-run Chinook salmon have adapted to the unique hydrology and habitat conditions associated with large spring systems that provide cold consistent water throughout the summer. However, much of their historical habitat is inaccessible due to large dams and hydroelectric projects that completely block access to prime spawning and rearing habitats. Eagle Canyon is one of a host of major projects that are on the horizon in Battle Creek and represent the best opportunities for on the ground restoration to conserve and recover this member of California’s biodiversity.

In 2022, CalTrout and partners completed construction at this site to remove a rock barrier in the canyon that had been blocking fish passage. As a result, more than 8 miles of anadromous habitat became available for endangered winter-run Chinook salmon. We are continuing post-construction monitoring of the site until 2024.