In 1875, a man fishing in the isolated Trout River of California discovered several large gold nuggets. This lesson plan asks fourth-grade students to develop a plan to avoid another 1849 gold rush. The plan is to design a new town while considering transportation, housing, food and goods for the miners, and the preservation of the area's beautiful environment. The lesson plan states that five committees are to be formed for the new town and each of the four area towns (Sleepyville, Deer Valley, Pinetown, and Quiet Gulch). The plans must contain information about the 1849 gold rush. The lesson plan describes the task; delineates the process; lists resources; gives learning advice; discusses evaluation criteria and reflection; and provides a conclusion. The teacher notes section presents a grade level; addresses history/social science standards and lesson length; notes materials needed; presents interdisciplinary connections for language arts (reading comprehension, writing strategies, and listening and speaking strategies); lists print and media resources; discusses evaluation rubrics; and adaptations for special needs students. (BT)