The Mill Creek Watershed Conservancy
A forest preserved in memory of Bill Clow
| The Mill Creek Watershed Conservancy (a non-profit, public benefit corporation) is dedicated to purchasing and preserving the last old growth Fir and Tan Oak forest in the lower Mattole valley.
This virgin forest covers about 220 acres. It protects the fragile mountain slopes and cools the waters of Mill Creek. Silver salmon and steelhead find excellent spawning habitat, and rare spotted owls and nesting golden eagles are at home in the quiet woodland. Hikers will discover scenic trails; naturalists will study the common and rare species of this undisturbed habitat; and local residents will continue to enjoy this last fragment of the original forests of the lower Mattole valley. Since 1976 local residents have worked to guarantee fish access, improve habitat, and enhance silver salmon runs on Mill Creek. They operate a "hatchbox" incubation system and two rearing tanks, and have released juvenile silver salmon since 1982. The first returns from these efforts occurred in December 1984. Bill Clow - (1946-1983) Bill Clow was a much beloved and respected naturalist and ornithologist who died in January, 1983. He knew the Mill Creek forest well, and was the first to discover spotted owls and to locate eagle nests. Bill would be pleased that this watershed is to be protected and made accessible, a place for people to experience and appreciate the life of an undisturbed forest. We are engaged in a determined effort to purchase this virgin forest before it is logged. Donations of any size are needed and should be sent to: Mill Creek Watershed Conservancy |
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