CITY OF RENO CHALK CREEK WATERSHED CHARACTERIZATION & TREATMENT WETLAND PILOT PROJECTS

JBR Environmental Consultants, Inc. is performing a watershed characterization of the Chalk Creek watershed in northwest Reno. Chalk Creek contributes elevated concentrations of total dissolved solids (TDS), nitrogen, and phosphorous to the Truckee River.  JBR is identifying flow inputs to Chalk Creek and sources of TDS and nutrients, and is evaluating mitigation measures to improve geomorphology and reduce TDS and nutrient loading for the benefit of the nonpoint source reduction component of the Truckee River Total Maximum Daily Load. For the watershed characterization, JBR created a GIS database; conducted surface water, stormwater, and soil leachate sampling; and performed a geomorphic and riparian habitat assessment.

To mitigate erosion and enhance riparian habitat, JBR designed an erosion control structure with riparian and upland plantings and performed the associated permitting and construction contracting and observation. Additionally, JBR has been contracted by the City of Reno, with funding from the Truckee River Fund, to research, design, install, and monitor pilot-scale treatment wetlands to improve the water quality of Chalk Creek. The pilot treatment wetlands are anaerobic, subsurface, lined wetlands designed to decrease TDS through enhancement of sulfate-reducing bacteria. JBR performed the associated permitting and construction contracting and observation. The wetlands will be monitored for at least a year, with monitoring of influent and effluent, pore water using peepers, substrate chemistry and stratification, and hydrogen sulfide gas flux with a flux chamber.

• Molly Reeves - Project Manager -