Golden State Today

The Lookout Slough project, the largest tidal wetland restoration effort in the Delta to date, has been completed. The initiative restores 3,400 acres of critical habitat for sensitive fish species and other wildlife while reducing flood risk in California's Central Valley.

State officials marked the completion with a levee breaching at the project's eastern edge in Solano County. This site now provides over 40,000-acre feet of additional flood storage within the Yolo Bypass, enhancing protection for surrounding communities and infrastructure during future floods.

Governor Gavin Newsom commented on the significance of the project: “California is building on our global climate leadership with innovative solutions that work with nature to safeguard our communities, ecosystems and local economies on the front lines of climate-driven floods and drought. This project and the strong partnerships at the heart of its success demonstrate how we can meet the needs of Californians while protecting our rich natural heritage for generations to come.”

The Lookout Slough project aligns with California's ambitious targets for nature-based solutions addressing climate change effects. It commenced in June 2022 and involved constructing over three miles of a 25-foot-tall setback levee providing 100-year flood protection with allowances for future sea level rise; excavating 26 miles of open tidal channels; and restoring native habitat through natural revegetation strategies. Additionally, it offers recreational opportunities such as wildlife viewing and fishing.

This project is one among more than a hundred ongoing statewide initiatives led or supported by the Department of Water Resources aimed at creating habitats and protecting special status species in California’s waterways. These efforts are designed to manage water needs for millions of Californians while balancing environmental considerations.

Further information about Lookout Slough and content from today's levee breaching event can be found here.