Blogs > LakeTech Partners with California DWR on Historic Lookout Slough Restoration

LakeTech Partners with California DWR on Historic Lookout Slough Restoration

Date: 9/25/2024

LakeTech is proud to announce our collaboration with the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) on the groundbreaking Lookout Slough Tidal Restoration Project—the largest of its kind in California's history. Our team recently hosted a comprehensive field day, training DWR staff in National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) sampling, monitoring techniques, and the safe and effective application of herbicides to combat invasive aquatic plants in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta.

Eli Kersh and Ben Chen going over proper label understanding

Empowering DWR Staff Through Hands-On Training

Under the guidance of our President, Eli Kersh, and staff member Ben Chen, the DWR team gained valuable experience in addressing invasive species like alligator weed and phragmites. The training focused on real-world problem-solving and best practices in aquatic herbicide application.

LakeTech's Role in Protecting Restored Habitats

Eli Kersh, President of LakeTech, emphasized the significance of our involvement:

"Our job is to help the state make sure invasive aquatic species don't take root in this newly restored habitat."

Invasive species pose a significant threat to the ecological balance of restored environments. By providing expert training and innovative solutions, LakeTech is ensuring that the Lookout Slough project remains a haven for native species.

Eli and Ben reviewing proper equipment usage

About the Lookout Slough Restoration Project

Located in Solano County near Rio Vista, the Lookout Slough project aims to transform reclaimed farmland back into its natural tidal state. This initiative not only restores vital habitats for wildlife—including the endangered Delta smelt and native salmon—but also enhances flood protection for the greater Sacramento area by increasing the water storage capacity of the Yolo Bypass.

Key highlights of the project include:

  • Flood Management: The restoration adds over 40,000 acre-feet of additional flood storage within the Yolo Bypass, mitigating the risk of flooding in urban areas during heavy rainfall.
  • Habitat Restoration: By breaching sections of the old levee, the project reintroduces natural tidal flows, creating a thriving ecosystem for fish and bird species along the Pacific Flyway.
  • Infrastructure Improvements: Construction of a new 3-mile-long, 25-foot-tall levee designed to prevent seepage and protect adjacent lands.

LakeTech's Commitment to Environmental Stewardship

At LakeTech, we specialize in surface water management consulting, offering a unique platform that combines real-time water quality data with management tracking. Our involvement in the Lookout Slough project underscores our dedication to preserving aquatic ecosystems and supporting large-scale environmental initiatives.

Looking Ahead

As the Lookout Slough project moves towards completion, slated for the coming months, LakeTech remains committed to providing ongoing support and expertise. We look forward to continued collaboration with the DWR and other stakeholders to ensure the long-term success of this monumental restoration effort.

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