Merced River Policies and Projects

Designating a river as wild and scenic is not enough to protect it.

Science-based policies along with research and projects aimed at protecting and enhancing river and watershed values are essential. The Upper Merced River Watershed Council aims to be a clearinghouse of information related to the Merced River and strives to provide interested community members with opportunities to support river protection goals.

Featured
Implementation of Yosemite’s Merced River Plan
Plans
Implementation of Yosemite’s Merced River Plan
Plans

Yosemite National Park’s comprehensive 20-year plan and environmental impact statement for the Merced Wild and Scenic River, finalized 2014.

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Plans
Merced River Trail
Projects, Ongoing
Merced River Trail
Projects, Ongoing

The Merced River Trail project (currently in development by Mariposa County) proposes use of the historic railroad bed on the north side of the Merced River corridor as a multi-use trail that connects existing public lands within the river’s watershed. This is a Mariposa County Planning Department project, informed by community stakeholders and partners.

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Projects, Ongoing
CALWild - Merced River Signage Report
Recent News, Projects
CALWild - Merced River Signage Report
Recent News, Projects

Published in April 2022, this report from California Wilderness Coalition identifies needs for improved interpretive and wayfinding signage along the Merced River corridor that reflects equitable advocacy and environmental justice practices.

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Recent News, Projects
On the Radar: Spillway Modification Plan
Plans
On the Radar: Spillway Modification Plan
Plans

A major threat to the Wild and Scenic status of the Merced River, the Spillway Modification Project needs direct attention. How does this apply to our work? What are the updates?

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Plans

Explore our growing Reference Library for policies, plans, documents and more!