The East Kaweah GSA is moving forward on a new multi-benefit land repurposing project. The agency completed the land purchase process in February. Once constructed, the Flying Dragon Recharge Basin project will provide groundwater recharge, environmental habitat, and recreational benefits with a new recharge basin and walking trail through a conservation easement area.

The conservation project spans approximately 58 acres and is located at the northeast corner of Road 156 and Road 160 intersection near the area of Seville, an area where domestic households and growers are primarily groundwater dependent.

Once constructed, the basin will provide an average 1,000 acre-feet of groundwater recharge a year to improve the sustainability of local groundwater levels. By using high-quality surface water from the Friant-Kern Canal for recharge, it is anticipated to provide both a water quality and water supply quantity benefit for community members who rely on groundwater for drinking water.

This project is funded in part through a $1.5 million California Department of Conservation Multibenefit Land Repurposing Program (MLRP) grant administered by the Kaweah Delta Water Conservation District (KDWCD). The remaining costs, estimated at $1 million, make up the local cost share. Habitat restoration and public access construction projects will be completed by Sequoia Riverlands Trust. Currently in the development stage, the Project is expected to be completed by December 2025.

More information and updates on this recharge project will be made available as the project progresses. To stay up to date on project construction and efforts, sign up for our email list.