Sediment from hydraulic mining detained by Englebright and small dams in the Yuba basin

The complex anthropogenic geomorphic changes in the Yuba basin present a challenge with regards to responsible treatment of Englebright Dam. If toxic sediment is being reworked in the upper watershed, Englebright Reservoir may play an important role in protecting fish populations below in the Sacramento Valley. Where large volumes of mining sediment are stored behind small detention structures in the upper basin, they should be mapped and assayed for mercury. Stabilization or restoration options for these deposits should consider the potential role that they could play in supplying fine spawning gravel to the main channel.