San Joaquin River Basin, Lower San Joaquin River, CA Project Compensatory Mitigation Plan

The San Joaquin River Basin, Lower San Joaquin River, CA Project Compensatory Mitigation Plan, managed by the San Joaquin County Area Flood Control Agency, establishes a strategy to offset unavoidable habitat impacts associated with the LSJR project. Due to the lack of available mitigation bank credits in the project area, the plan shifts from purchasing credits to establishing up to six onsite and offsite habitat mitigation sites. This effort is supported by a Supplemental Environmental Assessment and Supplemental Environmental Impact Report, ensuring compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act and the California Environmental Quality Act. The project includes the development of on-site mitigation opportunities and adheres to strict ecological success criteria, utilizing the California Rapid Assessment Method and HEP analysis for wetland, riparian, and grassland habitats. Key operational requirements include the implementation of a contractor surveillance program overseen by the USACE, with specific mandates for levee inspection trenches and adherence to Construction Stormwater General Permits and spill prevention plans. Special requirements include ensuring that fishing and wildlife viewing platforms at Dad's Point are ADA accessible and implementing strict confidentiality and training protocols for the protection of tribal cultural resources. Financial estimates for various mitigation options are detailed, including a combination of bank credits and construction valued at over 233 million dollars and dredging operations estimated at 358 million dollars. The project has received multiple Notices of Determination certifying that it will not have a significant environmental effect, provided that adopted mitigation measures and monitoring plans are followed.