Webb Tract Wetland Restoration Project

The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California is undertaking the Webb Tract Wetland Restoration Project in Contra Costa County, California. The project focuses on restoring approximately 2,320 acres of habitat, consisting of 1,900 acres of emergent wetland, 110 acres of open water, and 310 acres of transitional seasonal wetland. This initiative aims to benefit native Delta wildlife, specifically the federally and state-listed giant garter snake, as well as the western pond turtle, tricolored blackbird, and sandhill crane, by increasing aquatic foraging and refugia habitat. The scope of work includes the construction of new wetland management units featuring berms, weir boxes, flap gates, and culverts, while utilizing existing siphons for water supply and District Canals for drainage. The project is designed to support climate resiliency and biodiversity and may generate carbon credits to offset emissions under the Metropolitan Water District's Climate Action Plan or to fund ongoing maintenance. Administratively, the project is classified as a forecast under NAICS code 237990 and is exempt from full CEQA review under Public Resources Code Section 21080.56, with concurrence from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Brenda Marines serves as the primary environmental specialist and lead agency contact.