Because of the steep slopes of Graham Creek, the removal of vegetative shading was not as severe as certain other tributaries of Sonoma Creek such as Carriger Creek and Yulupa Creek, where grazing animals could easily wander into the creekbeds of lower reaches. In the case of Graham Creek, relatively steep side canyons and stream gradient commence almost immediately above the confluence with Sonoma Creek.
The removal of vegetative shading was less severe in Graham Creek due to its steep slopes compared to other tributaries like Carriger Creek and Yulupa Creek. In these areas, grazing animals could easily enter the creekbeds in lower reaches. For Graham Creek, the steep side canyons and rapid stream gradient began almost immediately above its confluence with Sonoma Creek.