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Places We Protect

Rising River Preserve

Glassy water with grasses on both sides in the foreground and a snowy mountain in the background.
Rising River Preserve At the edge of Lassen National Forest in Shasta County, cold water percolates up from one of the largest spring systems in the nation, forming Rising River Lake. © TNC

Rising River’s unique ecosystems have become strongholds for several rare and endemic species.

Viewing

Overview

Description

At the edge of Lassen National Forest in Shasta County lies the 903-acre Rising River Preserve. This small but mighty landscape is a refuge for numerous species that reside here year-round, while many others use it as a stopover during their annual migrations. The lake and river, which are part of a large volcanic spring system, hold tremendous ecological value and teem with biodiversity.

Rising River's many habitats will be particularly important in the coming years, as a warming climate and fractured landscapes threaten rare and vulnerable species, including the endangered Shasta crayfish and montane peaclam.

By protecting this natural system, we can help native species and downstream communities stay resilient in the face of climate change. 

Access

Limited Access

Highlights

From endangered endemic species like the Shasta crayfish to rare spring snails and endangered plants, including slender Orcutt grass, habitats found on the preserve support a staggering array of life. Sandhill cranes nest here, redwing blackbirds are often spotted and the diversity of duck and songbird species is remarkable. Rising River is also home to one of the last remaining native-strain trout species in California. Meanwhile, the property’s size makes it an important refuge for far-ranging mammals including mountain lions and black bears.

Size

A 900-acre property that includes part of the headwaters of the Rising River.

Explore our work in this region

Inspiring Something Even Bigger

By safeguarding this preserve, we have the opportunity to conduct critical conservation across the region's unique river system. Environmental education is an important part of this work, and we plan to engage local youth and inspire them to help protect these irreplaceable resources into the future.

Among the Last of Its Kind

Amid the considerable changes to the region’s habitats, the lands and waters of the preserve have retained a remarkable level of ecological integrity. 

There are exceedingly few properties left in California that offer such unique opportunities for scientific discovery. Amazing geographic and water resources have allowed incredible biodiversity to thrive here.

Due to the ecological sensitivity of this property, visitation is limited. All visits must be scheduled in advance. The preserve may be available for research opportunities and educational events by contacting TNC.

For more information about the preserve or to request a visit, contact us at 916-449-2850 or email: california@tnc.org.

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