Phase 2 Meridian Farms Fish Screen Project

The Phase 2 Meridian Farms Fish Screen Project, managed by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Wildlife Conservation Board, involves the replacement of the existing Meridian Diversion/Pumping Plant in Sutter County with a new facility featuring retractable cylindrical fish screens to protect at-risk native fish species. The comprehensive scope of work includes the removal of the existing Drexler Diversion/Pumping Plant, the construction of a new Drexler re-lift pump station on the Main Canal, the extension of the Drexler Pipeline, and improvements to the Main Canal to increase flow capacity for the Drexler Service area. Under Streambed Alteration Agreement EPIMS Notification Number SUT-27272-R2, the project is governed by section 1602 of the Fish and Game Code and the California Environmental Quality Act. A recent amendment to the agreement modifies construction methods by removing the use of barges for crane access and instead authorizing the construction of an access ramp and two work benches on the existing levee. Environmental determinations indicate that the project will not have a significant environmental effect, and it is supported by a Negative Declaration and a specific monitoring plan to ensure compliance with jurisdictional requirements.