Reed College Canyon

Canyon Restoration

Crystal Springs Headwaters
Fish Passage and Restoration Project

Read an introduction to this restoration project, written by Diane Gumz, Director of Corporate and Foundation Support at Reed.

Fish Ladder

Reed Lake was created sometime near the turn of the century by the construction of a 10-foot-high dam across Reed Creek. The creation of the dam blocked fish passage, as the creek was re-routed through a culvert system that discharged to a steep waterfall.

Over the summer and fall of 2001, Reed College constructed a fish ladder to re-establish connectivity between Reed Lake and the lower creek for resident and anadromous fish. View pictures of the fish ladder.

Fish Ladder Opening Day

On November 16, 2001, a small group of ichthyphiles gathered at the west end of the canyon. Champagne corks popped, the gates were opened, and water flowed through the fish ladder. For the first time in 85 years, the upper reaches of the canyon were accessible to fish. And, right on schedule, the heavens opened and we all got thoroughly drenched. View the pictures of the fish ladder opening day.

enhancement strategy plan image

Enhancement Strategy

Here's the complete enhancement plan for the Reed Canyon, prepared for the college by Dennis O'Connor and Kendra Smith. You can read all the details of how the college plans to remove invasive plants and restore the native vegetation.