This giant salamander (Dicamptodon ensatus) was about 100 yards from my backyard. It was trying out it's threat display. Please excuse the crappy photos.
This is a good one, will get you to genus on all known groups in the United States. An Introduction to the Aquatic Insects America of North America by Merrit, Cummins, And Berg. Has some color plates, but is much better on the line drawings. Best bought second hand, the price is a lot better.
This caddisfly larvae usually shows up in the spring and summer in Mill Creek and the Russian River. It's usually found in fast water on torrent sedge or other submerged vegatation.
These nymphs are found in the Russian River from late February through August. They're found in fast water with large gravel and cobbles. They're about 12 mm long (not including cerci) at maturity.