Dale/Scott Ditch Rock Diversion Dam 2026 (Notification of Lake or Streambed Alteration, No. EPIMS-MER-65048-R4)

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has issued Notification No. EPIMS-MER-65048-R4 to Jayraj Kahlon authorizing the one-time construction of a rock diversion dam at the head of the Dale Scott Ditch on the Merced River. This activity is permitted under Section 1602 of the Fish and Game Code and is intended to alter the natural flow of the river by creating a structure that will back up water and direct it into the diversion ditch. The project involves minimal disturbance and is designed as a single, non-recurring construction event with no ongoing operational impacts beyond the initial installation. The agreement is managed by Region 4 – Central, Fresno, and is forecasted to be enacted in 2026 with a posted date of June 26, 2026. The environmental assessment and permitting process is overseen by Environmental Scientist Jackson Powell and Engineer Steve Maxey, who serve as the primary points of contact for compliance and technical inquiries. The project location is within the Merced River in California, and while specific details about the dam’s dimensions or exact permit conditions are not provided, the approval is contingent on adherence to state regulations aimed at minimizing ecological disruption during and after construction.