Sacramento River Ecological Flows Tool
The Sacramento River Ecological Flows Tool (SacEFT) is a computer model that links flow management actions to focal species outcomes to improve the ecological representativeness of water operations. SacEFT can provide guidance on both target flows (to maximize ecological benefits) and avoidance flows (to minimize negative consequences), bracketing the range of discharges to be evaluated experimentally. Ultimately, the long-term goal is to work with leaders in water planning forums to continue the development of SacEFT to best meet the needs of these groups.
Working with The Nature Conservancy and Stillwater Sciences, SacEFT is a quantitative model that relates changes in a select set of management actions (such as changes in flow) to responses in physical habitats for six focal species on the upper Sacramento River: Chinook salmon; steelhead; green sturgeon; bank swallow; western pond turtle; and Fremont cottonwood. The model integrates existing ecological information, workshop input from technical experts, field investigations, and computer modeling to quantify selected linkages among the flow regime, channel characteristics, and specific valued ecosystem components. It is anticipated that this tool will be used to better inform managers and decision makers about the ecological implications and trade-offs of changes in flow management and other actions on this regulated system.
Funding for SacEFT was provided by the CALFED Bay-Delta Ecosystem Restoration Program.
Disclaimer: No computer program can replace your common sense, or make decisions for you. You therefore assume complete responsibility for decisions made or actions taken based on information obtained using this software.