UPPER LAKE, Calif. – The Mendocino National Forest and the Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake are teaming up on a project to reestablish native riparian vegetation along Middle Creek on the Upper Lake Ranger District.

The Middle Creek restoration project involves planting traditional native plants and protecting them with fencing in order to stabilize the stream bank and enhance aquatic habitat.

In March, forest and tribal staff planted a variety of native plants including juncus and sedge along the creek.

The riparian restoration work will reduce soil erosion, provide better water quality for the Clear Lake Hitch to spawn – a very important food source historically for the Pomo of the Clear Lake basin – and reintroduce a variety of traditional native plants used by the Habematolel Pomo for basketry and other purposes.

Officials said this collaboration is intended to be an ongoing effort which will require future plantings and maintenance of those plants started.

“This project is bringing the Forest Service and local tribes together with a common purpose,” said Mendocino National ForestHeritage Program Manager Mike Dugas. “Working side by side, we strengthen relationships and discover new ways to reach our shared goals.”