Where the Next Generation Is Born
Burns Valley Creek plays a distinct role in the hitch lifecycle compared to streams like Kelsey or Adobe. While those creeks are primarily documented through adult spawner counts, Burns Valley in 2024 became the standout nursery stream — with ~4,000 juvenile hitch and thousands of larvae recorded by Lake County WPD. That's not just spawning activity. That's successful reproduction confirmed through to the next generation.
The creek enters Clear Lake's Lower Arm near the city of Clearlake, draining the Burns Valley corridor southeast of the lake. Sacramento blackfish juveniles were also documented alongside the hitch in 2024, indicating a healthy multi-species nursery environment when flows are adequate.
★ Standout 2024 Nursery
~4,000 juvenile hitch and thousands of larvae confirmed by Lake County WPD in 2024. Also documented Sacramento blackfish juveniles — a healthy multi-species nursery.
📍 Location
Enters the Lower Arm of Clear Lake near the city of Clearlake. Drains the Burns Valley corridor SE of the lake.
⚠ June 14 Flow Cutoff (2024)
Flow ceased June 14, 2024. Given the large juvenile population documented that year, the timing of cutoff relative to juvenile emigration readiness is critical.
Multi-Species Value
Sacramento blackfish juveniles were also documented alongside hitch in 2024, confirming Burns Valley supports multiple native species.
Burns Valley Creek in Every Season
Field photography by Taylor Woodruff — WPD survey sites, spawning substrate, seasonal flow conditions, and the creek corridor through Burns Valley.
