Minute 319 Restoration Results

The recent binational agreement, Minute 319, calls for the expansion of restoration efforts and the temporary allocation of base and pulse flows to the Colorado River Delta. The overall restoration goal is to create 2,300 acres of new riparian habitat. To achieve this ambitious restoration goal, we explore and used diverse restoration techniques, including hydroseeding to promote native riparian tree establishment through both natural germination and planting at this site. In this presentation we will report on the success of the restoration efforts and the challenges in meeting the restoration goals. Near the end of the pulse flow event, freshwater flows met the ocean tides in the upper estuary. Using lessons learned from the recent pulse flow event, the presentation will outline the overall opportunities to enhance the habitat conditions in other portions of the Delta beyond the riparian corridor, including the brackish marshes and upper estuary.