Upper Trinity River Watershed Recreation Improvement Plan (SNC1918-RT)

The Sierra Nevada Conservancy is funding the Watershed Research and Training Center to develop the Upper Trinity River Watershed Recreation Improvement Plan, focusing on three key areas within the Shasta-Trinity National Forest: the Trinity Alps Wilderness, Trinity Lake, and 7,633 acres of recently acquired U.S. Forest Service land. These areas collectively span approximately 300,000 acres and include a range of existing and potential recreational infrastructure such as trails, trailheads, campsites, day-use areas, boat ramps, and roads. The plan will assess current conditions, prioritize deferred maintenance and modernization needs, and identify sustainable, economically viable improvements that mitigate impacts on habitat and water quality. It will produce eight detailed design concepts, shovel-ready upgrade plans, and recommendations to guide future capital projects while ensuring compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act and the California Environmental Quality Act. No construction or ground-disturbing activities are authorized under this contract; the effort is strictly focused on planning, analysis, and preparation to enable future implementation. The ultimate goal is to create a comprehensive framework that supports responsible recreation management, enhances public access, and aligns with environmental protection goals. The project is cataloged under SNC1918-RT and is managed through the Sierra Nevada Conservancy’s Field Operations & Grants Division, with Andy Fristensky as the primary point of contact and Josh Smith representing the Watershed Research and Training Center. The intent is to advance key recreation projects from concept to readiness for funding and construction without initiating any physical work during this phase.