Challenge 

The Saratoga Creek Bridge is a historically significant arch bridge constructed in 1902 that requires replacement due to structural and seismic concerns. A number of trees required removal during construction, including trees within riparian habitat. Due to the project being situated in an overcrowded forest and with limited right-of-way, the conventional method of replacing trees as mitigation could not be used.  

Solution 

Caltrans developed a project to offset impacts from tree removal with forest enhancement work. Working with the environmental permitting agencies, the team developed a project aimed at improving tree and watershed health and resiliency for the benefit of fish and wildlife resources in an adjacent county park. Utilizing a certified Forester, a Watershed Enhancement Plan was developed that includes tree thinning and removal of debris, invasive species and diseased trees.  

Result  

• 32 acres of healthier forest with improved conditions for large trees and an increased forest diversity with multistory complexity  

• Improve health and resiliency of watershed and expand environmental mitigation opportunities for tree removal  

Project Contact:  

Gregory A.Carroll - gregory.carroll@dot.ca.gov (D4)