Integrating habitat protection and water reliability with a next-generation intake facility

Patterson Irrigation District Fish Screen and Pump Station

As part of the larger effort to restore the San Joaquin River, improved flows and renewed habitat are helping native fish return to the system. To support these goals, older diversion points along the river need upgrades to protect juvenile salmon during migration. Patterson Irrigation District asked our team to help replace their outdated, unscreened intake so the District could meet California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries criteria.

We provided full design and engineering services, from early concepts through final plans. Our work included hydraulic modeling, surveying, geotechnical investigations, value engineering, cost estimating, and permitting support. During construction, we provided environmental and engineering support, including field hydraulic evaluations to confirm regulatory compliance. Additionally, we provided day-to-day site construction management and inspection services during construction.

The result is a modern 200 cubic foot per second (5.7 cubic metre per second) diversion facility and pump station with a positive-barrier fish screen system that prevents entrainment and supports long-term species recovery while preserving the District’s water rights. The new intake structure uses 10 high-profile bar screens that feed a reinforced concrete sump housing seven vertical turbine pumps. A temporary system kept water deliveries running during construction, which took place in the same footprint as the old facility.