Hendrys Creek in Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve is getting a healthy makeover thanks to a recently-awarded $484,650 Wildlife Habitat Restoration Grant from the Santa Clara Valley Water District, funded through the voter-approved Safe, Clean Water and Natural Flood Protection Program. Combined with funding from Midpen’s Measure AA bond, Midpen will be able to get a jump start on removing in-stream structures (bridges, culverts and blockages) and invasive plants, restoring stream channels and installing native plants to revegetate the creek banks.

This restoration project will be undertaken through a collaboration with the Youth Conservation Corps, Acterra, a local environmental non-profit, and volunteers from both Midpen and Acterra. This project will preserve open space in the Los Gatos Watershed; protect and restore the riparian and wetland habitats of the Hendrys Creek watershed; and preserve ecological connectivity and wildlife corridor.

Hendrys Creek is an important link in our region’s water system. It feeds the Los Gatos Creek, sustaining wildlife and recharging the groundwater on its way to the Lexington Reservoir which provides drinking water to Silicon Valley residents. From there, it connects to the southern-most point in the San Francisco Bay, where it supports marine life and keeps the Bay healthy.