Creation of Trout Habitat by Constructing Small Dams

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to try to create a habitat suitable for trout by deepening the headwaters of Sagehen Creek through the construction of small dams 1 to 2 ft. in height. Located in the northeastern Sierra Nevada of California, this shallow section of Sagehen Creek contained no trout in July 1957 when work was begun. After the dams were built, wild brook trout, Salvelinus fontinalis (Mitchill), from a natural population lower in the creek were introduced into the headwaters.