A watershed is the geographic area that drains into a common body of water. Because watersheds are defined by natural hydrology, they represent the most logical basis for managing water resources. Watershed plans generally address issues such as flood management, erosion and sedimentation, water quality and restoration projects. When communities develop a comprehensive plan, they are in a good position to secure the support and funding necessary to make it a reality.
The Contra Costa RCD has engaged in several watershed planning efforts across the County.
- In 2009 the RCD coordinated a Rodeo Creek Watershed Vision Planning program with the community and several partners including the Contra Costa Redevelopment Agency, the Contra Costa County Flood Control District, Muir Heritage Land Trust and the Restoration Design Group.
- The Mount Diablo Creek Watershed Planning Group published their watershed plan in April 2007, and the Friends of Mount Diablo Creek, the RCD and other community groups are working to implement recommendations. The RCD and the Friends of Marsh Creek Watershed will soon be participating in a Watershed Council of cities and agencies in East Contra Costa's Marsh Creek Watershed.
- The Kirker Creek Watershed Planning Group published their plan in February 2004, and the Partners for the Watershed has begun implementation.
- The Alhambra Watershed Planning
Group completed its plan in April 2001, and the Alhambra Watershed Council has been working on implementing projects since then.
Other watershed groups are active across the County. Find out if there is a group near you!
All of Contra Costa RCD's watershed planning efforts follow the Coordinated Resource Management and Planning (CRMP) model. CRMP is based on three principles:
- Local control: Those who live, work and recreate within the watershed are most capable of making management decisions.
- Consensus decision-making: To ensure full community support, all decisions are made through consensus.
- Voluntary implementation: The community works together to implement the plan. There is no government mandate.