Developing a Sediment Mitigation Strategy for the North River Watershed

Agriculture comprises approximately 60% of the land use in the North River Watershed. Sediment-laden runoff events occur frequently, contributing to streambed siltation, which remains one of CAWG’s greatest challenges to address through in-stream restoration efforts. This project is the first step in shifting CAWG’s  focus toward addressing the source of this issue at an integrated landscape approach.

Beginning with a desktop exercise in 2026, CAWG will create a Sediment Mitigation Strategy by conducting a comprehensive survey of the North River Watershed to identify fine sediment input sites. This will eventually include developing a standardized survey protocol, conducting on-foot assessments, and compiling findings into a report with recommendations for mitigation. The document will serve as a roadmap for future action, guiding targeted projects in collaboration with landowners and partners such as the Department of Agriculture, the Agri-Watershed Partnership, Forests, Fish and Wildlife, and the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure where applicable. The main branch and tributaries supporting salmon will be prioritized and surveyed first.

As the first step in this process, in 2026, using CAWG’s  Riparian Health Assessment data, sections of the watershed where fine sediments are the primary substrate will be identified. Incorporating high-slope land inventory, contour data, and satellite imagery will further pinpoint areas that are most likely contributing fine sediments and will be prioritized for surveying.