San Luis Canal (California Aqueduct Pools 17 and 18) Liner Raise Project

The San Luis Canal Liner Raise Project, managed by the California Department of Water Resources, involves raising the concrete liner of the California Aqueduct's Pools 17 and 18 by approximately 1 foot 9 inches. This project spans roughly 8.9 miles between Milepost 128.4 and 135.6 in Fresno County to address subsidence and maintain water delivery functionality, safety, and operational flexibility. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2027 and is expected to be completed within nine months. The scope of work includes excavation using on-site borrow material, rerouting road drains, and the removal and reinstallation of guardrails and road delineators. All activities will be performed above the waterline, eliminating the need for dewatering the aqueduct. The project is subject to rigorous environmental compliance under CEQA and NEPA, with a Mitigated Negative Declaration indicating no significant adverse effects after mitigation. Key requirements include strict wildlife protection measures, such as the use of exclusion fencing, biological monitoring, and prohibitions on nighttime work within 500 feet of sensitive habitats. Contractors must also adhere to noise control standards and lighting restrictions to minimize impacts on biological resources. Regulatory oversight may include permits from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife for lake and streambed alterations and compliance with the Clean Water Act. Primary points of contact for the project include Marea Bell, Sarah Cannon, and Jesse Dillon.