When you adopt a creek, or a portion of one, you become its caretaker. You study it, restore it and protect it. You take care of the watershed that feeds it.
Why Adopt A Creek?
Arcata's creeks are rich habitats that support a great variety of life. When they are healthy, wildlife thrives and humans enjoy their beauty. Urbanization and other land uses have degraded the quality of many creeks. Often, there are alterations to harmful activities. You can help inform others about how to protect their creek and you can help restore it to a healthier state.
Who Can Adopt A Creek?
Anyone who is concerned about their local creek and the life that depends upon it can adopt that creek. Schools, scouts, 4-H, church groups, and neighborhood organizations, as well as individuals are all potential stewards of creeks.
How Do We Adopt A Creek?
Identify a creek or section of one you would like to adopt, then contact:
Environmental Svc. Dept. City of Arcata (707) 822-8184
Arcata's Environmental Services Department staff will help you or speak to your group. You will get ideas for activities and an understanding of the benefits that those activities will have for the creek.
Here Are Some Things You Can Do
Be sure to first contact the Arcata Environmental Services Department . We would like to help you - there is more to a creek than meets the eye. Some of the following activities may require an agreement with the California Department of Fish & Game.
Remove trash from the creek.
Stencil storm drains and label stream crossings to increase public awareness.
Monitor water quality (including temperature, clarity, pollution.)
Survey the creeks for wildlife and wildlife habitat.
Revegetate stream banks to reduce erosion.
Fence stream sides to keep livestock out and reduce erosion.
Help restore fish habitat.
Educate your neighborhood about how to care for your creek and ways to avoid inadvertent pollution.