Front Slide Gates Replacement Project

Project Location Map and Project Description

The Little Butte Creek Water Reliability, Groundwater Recharge and Habitat Improvement Project (Project) is a multi-benefit initiative by Western Canal Water District (District) focused on strategic replacement of the Front Slide Gates (FSG) which is a series of large steel gates that span Little Butte Creek (LBC) to regulate downstream flows and manage upstream water levels for irrigation diversion, water supply to the Upper Butte Basin Wildlife Area, and creation of aquatic and upland habitat. Each April, the District lowers the gates to create an upstream impoundment (the “Reservoir”). Raising them in late January lowers water levels and improves stormwater conveyance. The FSG is essential for the reliable supply of surface water to approximately 1/3rd of the District’s service area (~20,000 acres), which would otherwise be reliant on groundwater. These fields are optimally located within the Pacific Flyway and are an invaluable refuge for waterfowl and shorebirds during the winter months. The district seeks grant funds for Phase 1 of the Project, which includes engineering, environmental compliance, design, and grant administration.

The District has applied for a Bureau of Reclamation WaterSMART Grant. The required environmental analysis is underway.

List of documents :

• Notice of Intent

• Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Declaration