In a cooperative monitoring project developed with the North Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board, PALCO is monitoring sediment and streamflow in both Freshwater Creek and Elk River watersheds. Combined, the two watersheds have 25 water sample sites, most of which are fully instrumented. These sites consist of areas where either grab samples are collected individually, or in conjunction with continuously recording turbidimeters.

The objective of this program is to develop the necessary data on turbidity, suspended sediment load, and streamflow in the watersheds to determine appropriate water quality targets for sediment. These efforts will assist the North Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board in its efforts of developing a Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) level for sediment in these watersheds. This monitoring program is also tracking progress in sediment reduction as our Habitat Conservation Plan protections are implemented.