The Russian River primarily receives water from Lake Mendocino, which is situated on its East Fork. This reservoir serves as a vital water supply for the Russian River watershed.
Major Reservoirs Supplying the Russian River Watershed
Two significant reservoir projects contribute to the water supply of the Russian River watershed:
Reservoir | Associated Waterway | Primary Role |
---|---|---|
Lake Mendocino | East Fork of the Russian River | Direct feed to the Russian River |
Lake Sonoma | Dry Creek | Feeds a major tributary of the Russian River |
Lake Mendocino directly provides water to the Russian River via its East Fork, making it a primary source. Lake Sonoma, while not directly on the main stem of the Russian River, is located on Dry Creek, which is one of the river's principal tributaries. Both reservoirs are crucial for managing the water resources of the region.
Principal Tributaries of the Russian River
The Russian River is fed by several key waterways that contribute to its flow. These tributaries, along with the major reservoirs, define the comprehensive water system of the watershed.
The five principal tributaries include:
- The East Fork of the Russian River: This is where Lake Mendocino is located, making it a direct and significant contributor to the main river.
- Big Sulphur Creek
- Mark West Creek
- Maacama Creek
- Dry Creek: This tributary is fed by Lake Sonoma, highlighting the interconnectedness of the watershed's water sources.
These tributaries and the two major reservoir projects together form the complex network that sustains the Russian River, providing water for various uses within its watershed.