Flood Diversion Recharge Enhancement Portable Pump Project

The Merced Irrigation District is preparing for future high-flow events through a project funded under California’s Flood Diversion and Recharge Enhancement Initiative, which aims to reduce flood risk and increase groundwater recharge by diverting excess floodwater to designated recharge areas. The project equips the district with a portable pump, a fish screen, and related appurtenances to enable rapid, temporary deployment during flood conditions, ensuring readiness without requiring permanent infrastructure changes. This capability allows the district to respond effectively to seasonal or extreme runoff events, enhancing both public safety and regional water security. The beneficiaries include local communities and agricultural operations served by the district, which stand to gain from reduced flood damage and improved groundwater levels that support long-term water supply reliability. The project is managed by the Merced Irrigation District in California, with implementation centered in the 95348 zip code area, and overseen by Kristine Morris, Water Resource Coordinator, who serves as the primary point of contact. The initiative reflects a collaborative effort aligned with state goals to modernize flood management and promote sustainable groundwater use through flexible, locally adapted solutions.