Boulder placement is one of several activities that improve the Kings River’s fishery habitat.

Hundreds of large granite boulders, some up to five feet in diameter, have been placed in strategic locations in the Kings River below Pine Flat Dam. Boulder placement is a proven, effective method of improving in-stream habitat by providing trout with needed cover during low-flow periods and refuge from extreme water velocities at higher flow conditions.

The majority of the boulders are placed in clusters of three or four near the riverbank at high water mark. This placement creates calm areas for newly hatched fry and juvenile trout. Some clusters have also been placed at mid-channel to enhance the habitat for adult fish.