Mill Creek at Reeves Canyon Rd

Site Photo:

Site Description:

The Pipers own land in the Redwood Valley watershed (outside Lake Mendocino watershed), including hills and a portion of Mill Creek, a significant tributary of the WF Russian River. The stream gauge is located on the north bank of Mill Creek just north of a sharp left bend in Reeves Canyon Road before the Pipers’ driveway. (and before the last wooden bridge). There is a small pull-off of grass right where the gauge is. The tube is horizontal beneath the water right next to the staff plate. It is on the right side of the road on the north bank. Access is via Highway 101 to Reeves Canyon Road in Redwood Valley. Contacting the Pipers before access is not necessary but may be appreciated.

The primary geology of this area is slate, including lots of chlorite. The banks have steep, eroding ledges. The streambed is pebbly and sandy (very fine to coarse, poorly sorted, angular to sub-rounded grains).

Notes: 18 April 2023 visit revealed that a huge stream channel change occurred during WY2023 winter.  The original stilling well location is now in a secondary channel. The primary channel has shifted to the opposite side of the stream and required relocation of the stilling well and staff plate completed 10/09/2023