sonoma County, CA
Sebastopol Culvert Replacement & Habitat Protection
Project Details
This project replaced a failing culvert on a private driveway in western Sebastopol while enhancing critical habitat for endangered California freshwater shrimp. The work balanced residential access needs with environmental protection, creating a sustainable solution that improves watershed connectivity and provides enhanced aquatic habitat.
Location: Sonoma County, CA
Client: Private Landowner
In 2016, homeowners in western Sebastopol discovered a sinkhole in their shared driveway caused by a deteriorating culvert. PCI conducted a feasibility study exploring multiple solutions, ultimately designing a culvert replacement with strategically placed rock stabilization. The project gained expedited approval through the Habitat Restoration and Enhancement Act due to nearby habitat for endangered California freshwater shrimp. PCI biologists, engineers, and constructors collaborated to minimize habitat impacts while improving aquatic passage. Construction in 2018 included temporary water diversion, culvert replacement, bioengineered structures for fish passage, installation of a rock weir, and subsurface grade control to prevent scour. Post-construction monitoring confirms aquatic species are utilizing the enhanced habitat.
project goals
Replace failing culvert while maintaining critical access for residential property owners
Protect and enhance habitat for endangered California freshwater shrimp
Prevent future erosion and improve aquatic passage through the watershed
benefits
Restored safe residential access while preventing catastrophic culvert failure
Enhanced stream habitat conditions for endangered freshwater shrimp and other aquatic species
Improved watershed connectivity through sustainable culvert design and bioengineered structures
PROJECT MAP
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