Riparian trails


what is it?
The Shippey Facility is being constructed adjacent to a zone of riparian (stream-side) vegetation that Parsons Creek, a important seasonal tributary to the Russian River. This creek flows for 5 to 6 months in most years and historically served as an important spawning stream for steelhead, as well as important habitat for other aquatic species.
why is it important?
The opportunity to see, feel, smell, and hear a gurgling creek and the streamside environment will allow unique opportunities for outdoor education for audiences of all ages. For the past 15 years, HREC has been encouraging recovery of streamside vegetation all along Parsons Creek by active management. We will develop natural pathways and trails leading from the building to the stream. These trails will encourage visitors to use these pathways, thus reducing negative impacts excessive foot traffic that otherwise might affect the streamside environment.