Junction City: Upper Conner Creek Restoration Reports New Public Boat Launch and Continued Planting in 2026

JUNCTION CITY, Trinity County — The Trinity River Restoration Program reports that major construction at its Upper Conner Creek rehabilitation site is complete, with river access improved and follow-up vegetation work continuing in 2026.

What has been finished?

The program’s project page identifies the site near Junction City between river miles 77.1 and 78.5. It says civil construction finished on September 9, 2025, after a project that began in August 2024.

According to the program, the public boat launch at Junction City Campground has been completed and is open for public access. Restoration crews also reworked floodplain surfaces, created riffles, and installed large wood to improve habitat complexity for salmon and steelhead. The agency says revegetation will continue through 2026.

What happens next?

A January 2026 planning update identifies Evans Bar and Sky Ranch, near Junction City, among projects entering further design, with potential work phases beginning in 2027. Planning is not the same as a signed construction award or active worksites.

What residents should watch

People using Red Hill Road and the campground area should check posted signs, recreation notices and river conditions before launching watercraft. The agency’s statement that the new access is open does not guarantee safe river flows or access during every storm.

The restoration effort is intended to increase low-velocity habitat for young salmonids, while maintaining appropriate public and private access. Residents can review the linked environmental assessment, project maps and agency progress photographs to track the difference between work completed and work still planned.

Sources: Trinity River Restoration Program Upper Conner Creek project; 2026 implementation outlook.

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