In a move celebrated by environmentalists and outdoor enthusiasts alike, the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors gave the green light to a transformative project to repair a swathe of the Russian River floodplain. Announced on Earth Day and confirmed by Permit Sonoma, the 358-acre initiative will tackle the restoration of what's commonly known as the "Hanson Pits", gravel mining pits located alongside the river's east bank near Windsor.
The project, positioned as a beacon of sustainability, seeks to reshape these areas into thriving floodplain habitats for salmonids, including coho salmon and steelhead, which are federally protected. Supervisor Lynda Hopkins heaped praise on the county's dedication, explaining, "Restoring our river’s natural floodplain will not only bolster habitat for coho salmon and steelhead, but will also give residents and visitors safe, year-round access to this beautiful stretch of the Russian River." Hopkins' comments, chronicled by Permit Sonoma, underscore the dual benefits for wildlife and locals alike.
The collaborative endeavor, helmed by the Endangered Habitats Conservancy and Permit Sonoma, draws upon many partners such as NOAA Fisheries, California State Coastal Conservancy, and the local advocacy group Russian Riverkeeper. It is also backed by several local environmental organizations, evidenced by their letters of support. The meticulous planning has been in the works since at least 2015, following studies focused on the floodplain's feasibility for such an overhaul. The undertaking is not merely ecological, but also intends to increase wildfire resiliency, improve water quality, and recharge groundwater.
