French Creek, a tributary to the Scott River, supports anadromous fish runs for three species (Chinook, coho, and steelhead trout). Land use practices in the area include commercial timber harvest, recreation, farming and ranching operations. These practices are relatively stable but require considerable groundwater and surface water use, which often contributes to water quality issues for Salmonids during the late summer months.

The French Creek project will support the Scott River Water Trust (SRWT) in the development and negotiation of long-term water transfers during the 2019 low flow period through leasing water in French Creek, a primary coho producing tributary in the Klamath Basin. Once the project is completed, the SRWT will monitor leasing transactions, fish presence, water quality, and assess the zone of benefit.

The French Creek project would inform opportunities for water right dedication and protecting salmonids on their journey from birth to smolt.