It’s been a busy time for the Russian River (Hanson) Floodplain Restoration Project since Supervisors approved the Project Use Permit in April. 2025 update!
The Floodplain Restoration Project will convert four gravel pits on 360 acres into a seasonal floodplain to eliminate negative issues with the deep pits and restore the river’s functionality and historic habitats. The project will help rebuild salmon populations, reduce flooding and erosion, and improve groundwater recharge. After restoration, the property will become a low-intensity public park to provide more outdoor spaces for the community. It is our hope that initial discussions regarding tribal co-management of the future park are successful.
The Project design team at GHD have been conducting additional wildlife and plant studies, technical studies and refining the park facilities plan over the last several months. This additional work supports completing 65% engineered project designs. The project team will be reviewing the draft 65% designs, providing feedback and then seeking input from State and Federal agencies. All these plans will be submitted with permit applications to the State and Federal agencies. Once those agency permits are issued, the permit requirements and conditions will be incorporated into 100% engineered designs that should be completed in 2026.
