Ecology of Clover Valley

Geography

Map of Placer County, California showing major roads and cities with Clover Valley in the middle.

From this map, one can easily see how uniquely Clover Valley is situated to create a perfect natural buffer between the three communities of Rocklin, Loomis, and Lincoln.

Located approximately 25 miles from Sacramento, Clover Valley's 622 acres is one of the last remaining undeveloped, low-foothill valleys located close to urbanized areas. Its unspoiled wetlands, oak and riparian woodlands, creek, wildlife habitat, scenic ridges, meadows, greenbelt, and pre-historic sites, make it an irreplaceable landscape unsuitable for the proposed development.

To view the valley from a public road, proceed along Park Drive in Rocklin (west ridge of valley) and park at Boulder Ridge Park, south of water towers. Walk south and look down into part of the grandeur of Clover Valley.

Topography

A relief map of Clover Valley illustrates the uniqueness of this narrow, steeply sloped valley. Surrounded by rolling foothills, the valley stands out in relation to adjacent landscapes.

Topo map of Clover Valley showing unique configuration.
Map Courtesy of
Professor Sean Booth
Sierra College

Clover Valley Creek runs through the valley primarily from north to south, whereas most foothill creeks run east to west.

As part of the Dry Creek Watershed, Clover Valley Creek is also a part of the critical habitat for the Central Valley steelhead trout, which is a listed species. With removal of blockages, fish migration could be restored.

Clover Valley Creek sign on Sierra College Blvd.

Clover Valley Creek could provide suitable habitat for the Western Pond Turtle (listed species) as well as other wildlife that take refuge in the valley (like the salmon referenced in this picture.)