RED BLUFF – A linear row of uprooted trees lined the center of East Sand Slough on Tuesday in Red Bluff, from the Antelope Boulevard Bridge to the water at the bottom of Sale Lane as construction crews continued work on the project salmon habitat.
Many trees had to be felled to make way for the new channel along the Sacramento River that will allow the salmon population to graze and grow freely.
Jane Dolan, of the Sacramento River Forum, said the plan to replant the trees will begin as the weather changes.
“The public should note that there will be final work and reseeding of disturbed areas,†Dolan said. “We are waiting for the weather to cool down before sowing and planting and we hope it will rain. If we reseed now, the seeds will be eaten by the birds.
Additionally, Dolan said crews insisted on allowing residents to maintain access and use of the area.
“The construction of the canal has focused on the lower area of ​​the project,†Dolan said. “This work should be completed by October 1. The goal is, as our team says,” to get away from those who like to walk around the recreation area. “”
So far, crews have created better paths and access routes to the site, as well as fencing with native vegetation for the start of most construction. Dolan said non-invasive vegetation is retained while invasive vegetation will be removed.
The uprooted trees will be used to create shade and structure for the fish habitat.
One problem faced by construction workers was unintentional fires nearby.
“A series of fires in the green area north of the bridge has been problematic,†Dolan said. “The first one was pulled over in small areas as they were during the day and our team was on hand to respond quickly to help.”
A fire on September 15 caused severe damage to surrounding vegetation.
Tehama County Probation also helped the project in the form of cleaning up trash and litter.
Dolan said workers removed 18,000 pounds of trash on Monday.
“It’s a real benefit for the wildlife sanctuary and for Red Bluff to have cleaned everything up,†Dolan said.
