The contract, valued at $668,350, includes two primary project design objectives: Reduce water surface elevations in the Buckhorn Dam outlet-works/toe drain system throughout the initial 600ft of the outlet channel; and develop coho-rearing habitat for juvenile fish and potentially spawning habitat for adults within the project area. It is expected that the low-velocity and protected habitat enhancements made for coho salmon will also benefit other wildlife such as migratory birds and amphibians

Project construction will occur between August and October 2012 and is starting downstream of Buckhorn Dam and reservoir on Grass Valley Creek.