Poopenaut Valley groundwater study

Poopenaut Valley

UC Santa Cruz and NPS researchers recently published their work on Poopenaut Valley groundwater modeling and monitoring in the Journal of Hydrology.  The researchers monitored experimental high flow releases from O'Shaughnessy Dam to assess the relative importance of inundation versus groundwater rise in establishing and maintaining riparian wetland conditions to determine how restoration benefits might be achieved while reducing total flood discharge.  The observations helped to calibrate a numerical model that was used to test scenarios for controlled flood releases.

Modeling of the groundwater–wetland system suggests that inundation of surface soils is the most effective mechanism for developing wetland conditions, although an elevated water table helps to extend the duration of soil saturation.  Results of the study will be incorporated into flow recommendations being developed for O'Shaughnessy Dam by UTREP.

Looking Downstream 2009 & 2010 reports available

We've just uploaded NPS update reports on ecological monitoring in the Poopenaut Valley for 2009 and 2010.  In 2009 and 2010, NPS scientists continued to conduct extensive monitoring of wetland and meadow hydrology, birds, vegetation, and benthic macroinvertebrates. New work in these two reports includes groundwater modeling by UC Santa Cruz and bat surveys conducted by NPS.

Spring stakeholder meeting

The next meeting of the Upper Tuolumne River Stakeholder Group is set for April 13, 2012 from 11am - 2:30pm at the Moccasin Administration Building (map).  View or download the agenda here.  If you plan to attend the Stakeholder Group meeting, please email Bill Sears at wsears@sfwater.org.