Fish Passage

NCWA members have long been recognized for their commitment to environmentally responsible farming. Their successful practices have resulted in improved water quality, efficient water use, creation and enhancement of wildlife habitat and protection of important native fish species. The Sacramento Valley's initiative and effort to help protect salmon and other aquatic species is unprecedented and is now recognized as one of the most exciting and progressive voluntary salmon restoration efforts in the United States. Today, NCWA members throughout the Sacramento Valley, representing over 500,000 acres of irrigable land, are in various stages of developing screens to prevent fish entrainment at their diversions. NCWA is currently working with its members to consolidate and screen the largest remaining unscreened diversions on the Sacramento River. Nearly 75% of all agricultural water use from the Sacramento River will soon flow through new, state of the art, fish screens designed to protect salmon and other fish. NCWA members have also refurbished fish ladders, constructed siphons, removed dams, and implemented habitat improvement projects to enhance the environment. As an example, every major fish restoration project listed by the Department of Water Resources in the California Water Plan, Bulletin 160-98, is located in the Sacramento Valley.

A Report on the Status of Fishery Programs in the Sacramento Valley

Endangered and Threatened Species in the Sacramento River Basin and Tributaries