The Watershed Planning Branch of the Habitat Conservation Division . . .

assists federal, state, and local governmental agencies, like the Bureau of Reclamation, and non-government organizations plan and implement water-related development and restoration projects.

participates in planning processes, conduct biological studies, provide recommendations to ensure equal consideration for fish and wildlife resources, including ways to avoid, minimize, and compensate for adverse impacts to fish and wildlife in accordance with the Service's Mitigation Policy (Federal Register 46:15; January 23, 1981).

prepares or assists in the preparation of various environmental documents, including those related to construction, water operations, and environmental regulatory compliance for actions to protect, enhance, and restore fish and wildlife resources. [i.e., National Environmental Policy Act, Endangered Species Act, Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act, etc.]

assists the Army Corps of Engineers Regulatory Section, by reviewing and commenting on Federal permits authorized under the Clean Water, Section 404, or the Rivers and Harbors Act, Section 10.

works closely with Corps regulatory staff in identifying appropriate mitigation measures to protect fish and wildlife and their habitats and incorporating these measures into Federal permits.

reviews and comments on State and Federal environmental documents, thereby helping project proponents and decision makers minimize impacts to fish and wildlife resources.

works with the Corps and private industry in the development of compensatory mitigation banks aimed at facilitating the Federal permitting process without long term loss of habitat.

works with community groups and governmental agencies throughout northern California to develop watershed-based management plans, protective of fish and wildlife resources, and allowing for the continued economic use of terrestrial and aquatic resources within watersheds.

Colusa Bypass
Sacramento River

We strive to ensure the protection, wise management and appropriate use of diminishing and important habitat, with prevention of wetland loss as our goal.

By providing information early in the planning process, we: help project proponents avoid and minimize harm to fish and wildlife resources (or to compensate for impacts if unavoidable), avoid unnecessary conflicts and delays, and discourage unsustainable development