A coalition of tribal leaders, environmental advocates, and community activists in the San Joaquin Valley is spearheading an initiative to restore a portion of the historic Tulare Lake. The lake, once the largest freshwater body west of the Mississippi River, was drained by farmers over a century ago but is now poised for a revival with plans to build a reservoir and wetlands near Interstate 5.
Engineering Proposal and Land Acquisition
An engineering proposal, crafted by civil engineer John Ennis, suggests constructing a reservoir on nearly 24,000 acres near Kettleman City. This plan involves building levees and capturing floodwaters, with the potential to store up to 500,000 acre-feet of water, which is comparable to the annual water usage of Los Angeles. The project aims to provide flood protection and restore habitats.
However, several challenges lie ahead, including securing funding and acquiring land from key landowners like Sandridge Partners and J.G. Boswell Co.. To date, these companies have not publicly endorsed the project, and negotiations with landowners are ongoing.
Cultural and Environmental Significance
The revival of Tulare Lake holds cultural significance for the Tachi Yokut Tribe, who refer to the lake as Pa’ashi. The tribe’s vice chairman, Robert Jeff, emphasized the importance of restoring the lake for its cultural and spiritual value. He expressed optimism about the community’s support for bringing back a part of their ancestral waters.
Environmental organizations, including Friends of the River, highlight the ecological benefits of the project. The new lake could serve as a habitat for birds along the Pacific Flyway, and a potential new state park could provide recreational opportunities for fishing and birdwatching.
Ennis, who prepared the proposal pro bono, believes the project could also address issues such as declining aquifer levels and land subsidence in the region. His design includes a wetland restoration zone to further enhance the local ecosystem.
Funding and Next Steps
Supporters are exploring funding options, such as Proposition 1 bond funds, designated for water storage and ecosystem restoration. The rigorous project selection process managed by the state presents both an opportunity and a challenge for securing these funds.
A recent workshop at the Tachi Palace Casino Resort in Lemoore brought together over two dozen supporters to discuss the project’s future. Attendees expressed enthusiasm for the lake’s restoration and agreed to form a working group to advance the initiative.
The proposal has been submitted to the California Natural Resources Agency for review, but no official comment has been made by Secretary Wade Crowfoot at this time. As discussions progress, the coalition remains committed to reviving Tulare Lake, blending ecological restoration with cultural renewal.
