Coho Partnership

In response to the precipitous decline of coho salmon in the Russian River watershed, the Russian River Coho Water Resources Partnership is developing a systematic approach to improve streamflow and water supply reliability in five Russian River tributaries critical to the recovery of endangered coho salmon.

Sotoyome RCD will provide overall project coordination and contract administration for the partnership's grant.

The long-term goals of the Partnership are to

• Restore a more natural flow regime during the dry season;
• Increase viability, and ultimately numbers, of coho salmon in the Russian River watershed;
• Increase water reliability for water users in each watershed;
• Develop governance mechanisms to carry out these efforts;
• Develop tools and methods for others to use.

To meet the needs of the landowners, the regulatory agencies, and fish and other natural resources, the partnership will employ a science-based approach to identify the areas that have the greatest opportunity for implementing alternative water management strategies and work with landowners to identify, study, permit and finance solutions that improve streamflow.