Your CreekS
Kirker Pass, Pittsburg
DO YOU KNOW WHERE YOUR STORM DRAINS FLOW?
Kirker Pass is named after Kirker Creek, which is the primary waterway in the area. The creek originates in the foothills of Mount Diablo and flows north for approximately nine miles, passing through the rugged, scenic landscape of the pass. This waterway is a vital part of the local ecosystem, supporting riparian habitat with trees like oaks, willows, and cottonwoods. The creek's watershed covers a large area, including parts of the Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve, and is a crucial ecological corridor connecting the mountain foothills to the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta.
The area's history is closely tied to the creek, with the nearby Nortonville Canyon once being a significant coal mining region in the 19th century. The remnants of this industry, including piles of waste rock, have historically impacted the creek's water quality. Local organizations and government agencies have since made efforts to improve the creek's health by managing runoff and mitigating the effects of past pollution. The creek and its surrounding open space are also important for recreation, offering hiking and biking trails and serving as a reminder of the region's rich natural and industrial heritage.