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Improvements include drops, pools, low flow channel construction, and strategic boulder placements designed to withstand major floods, as well as to be functional during low-flow periods. These improvements will be constructed using natural stone and boulders that are anchored into place in a manner that will not hinder the flood-carrying capacity of the channel, and where feasible, may increase that capacity. In addition, the improvements will be located at key access points to enhance interaction with riverbank users.

Instream improvements will expand opportunities on the Truckee River.

Kayaker during the Truckee River Races.
Dam removal allows for continous safe river passage for rafts, inner tubes, kayaks or canoes. In-active dams should be removed and active dams should be modified to maintain stream diversion function while allowing navigation.

This dam at Wingfield Park should be modified or removed.

Kayakers and inner tubers enjoy a modified dam on the Boise River.
Improvements include put-in and take-out locations, river trail, and access points as well as bank regrading/restoration. Where possible, the existing floodwalls and dikes should be reconfigured in a terraced design down to the river’s edge to better integrate the river into the surrounding areas. Appropriate riparian vegetation for flood-prone areas should be planted within the new terraces. Overlook opportunities should be included at logical locations and bridges. Top of bank elevations are critical and should conform to the adopted flood control plans.

A summer weekend on the banks of Boulder Creek.

Improvements should mesh with instream enhancements and be designed to relate with adjacent properties and their redevelopment plans. The river trail should be continuous along the river, and under each bridge. As much open space as possible should be preserved along the river for the trails, plazas and esplanades, as well as for buffers to adjacent residential, commercial, and industrial areas.

Continous bike trail under the roadway.

Bike trail near Champion Park on the Truckee River.
The slalom course in the South Channel will consist of gates suspended seasonally above the water through which the boater maneuvers. Each gate consists of an anchor in the bank or river wall and a horizontal support from which the gates are hung. The horizontal supports will be set above the 100-year flood elevation, well above the area that pedestrians and fishermen would use. The gates are moveable so the course can be changed periodically. Due to the existing and proposed trails in this area and existing parking, conflicts with other users are not anticipated.

River festival on Clear Creek in Golden, CO.

Currently this course is erected annually between May and July.