Prado Basin Ecosystem Restoration and Water Conservation Integrated Feasibility Study, Orange County, CA

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has issued Lake and Streambed Alteration Agreement EPIMS-RIV-52599-R6 to the Orange County Water District pursuant to Section 1602 of the Fish and Game Code. This agreement authorizes the maintenance and operation of the Prado Constructed Wetlands located within the Prado Basin in Riverside County, specifically north of the Prado Dam along the Santa Ana River. The project footprint extends south toward the intersection of California State Route 91 and 71, west of River Road, and south of McCarty Road. The scope of work includes erosion repairs, reconstruction of existing facilities, trash and debris removal, water conveyance structure repairs, sediment removal, and vegetation management. Additionally, maintenance activities involve diverting water using a push-up dam. A Notice of Determination dated January 20, 2026, confirms that the project will not significantly affect the environment within the jurisdiction of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, although specific mitigation measures have been imposed. The project is administered by the Orange County Water District with oversight from the Department of Fish and Wildlife Inland Deserts Region.