The Upper Pit River Watershed covers more than 2 million acres and more than 4,600 square miles and represents one of the largest watershed assessment projects undertaken in the state of California. Segments are 303(d) listed for nutrient loading, dissolved oxygen, and temperature. Water-quality problems along the Pit River include sediment supply, dissolved oxygen, nitrate levels, elevated water temperatures, and lack of summer flow.

The goal of the alliance was to identify factors that contribute to Pit River water quality and work with landowners to implement solutions that will resolve the issues. VESTRA staff compiled data from agencies and private landowners, then organized and presented the data in a current conditions report. A requested objective of the document and assessment process was to build a defensible administrative record to support delisting of the 303(d) segment of the Upper Pit River.

VESTRA conducted monthly technical meetings and numerous community information meetings to present available data and status of the assessment as well as provide GIS information, coordination, and analysis support for internal staff and subcontractors.