Paynes Creek Fish Passage and Screening Improvement
Trout Unlimited initiated this project to address fish passage and fish screening concerns associated with the Bend Water Users irrigation diversion on Paynes Creek. The existing irrigation dam had been identified as a barrier to anadromous fish species, including Fall-Run Chinook salmon, Central Valley steelhead, and Pacific lamprey, while the adjacent unscreened irrigation canal contributed to fish entrainment and mortality.
Trout Unlimited
Streams & Rivers
Tehama County, California
The project aimed to improve aquatic habitat connectivity and meet California Department of Fish and Wildlife criteria while maintaining reliable irrigation diversions for local water users.
NHC completed a comprehensive alternatives assessment evaluating full and partial dam removal scenarios, fish passage structures, and fish screening options. The assessment included hydrologic analysis of the Paynes Creek watershed, hydraulic modeling of existing and proposed conditions, and a geomorphic evaluation of the project reach. NHC developed and advanced the preferred design, consisting of a roughened rock ramp downstream of the existing diversion structure to provide fish passage and a cone screen at the canal intake to prevent fish entrainment. NHC completed conceptual through 100% design, including detailed calculations and construction documents, and supported implementation of the project.
Restored access to upstream habitat for migratory fish species while preventing fish entrainment into the irrigation canal, improving aquatic ecosystem connectivity while maintaining reliable water diversions for agricultural users.
