Turlock Irrigation District approves new Highline Canal sidegate for groundwater recharge

Turlock Irrigation District approves new Highline Canal sidegate for groundwater rechargeThe TID Board of Directors has greenlit a new 18-inch sidegate to deliver replenishment water to over 150 acres of almond orchards, aiming to reduce groundwater reliance in the East Turlock Subbasin.

The Board unanimously approved a new out-of-district replenishment water service for Almond Valley Investments.

The 18-inch sidegate on the Highline Canal will deliver up to 1,900 gallons per minute of surface water.

The connection will serve 153.61 acres of almond orchards historically irrigated by groundwater.

All future maintenance and operations costs for the facility will be funded by out-of-district replenishment water revenue.

The Turlock Irrigation District (TID) Board of Directors unanimously approved a new out-of-district replenishment water service and sidegate during its August 11, 2026, meeting. The infrastructure will serve four parcels owned by Almond Valley Investments, totaling 153.61 acres of almond orchards. The project involves installing a new 18-inch sidegate on the Highline Canal, located just downstream of Montpelier Road. The connection will allow for the delivery of up to 1,900 gallons per minute (4.23 cubic feet per second) of surface water, up to three times per week. According to the district's staff report, the parcels are located within the East Turlock Subbasin Groundwater Sustainability Agency and have historically relied on groundwater for irrigation. By providing an interruptible supply of surface water during years of surplus, the new service supports the goals of the local Groundwater Sustainability Plan by facilitating in-lieu groundwater recharge. Director of Water Operations Wes Miller noted during the meeting that replenishment water allocations are evaluated annually based on supply availability, primarily driven by storage levels in the Don Pedro Reservoir. The delivered flows will be measured by TID-approved devices, and all future maintenance and operational costs for the sidegate facility will be covered by out-of-district replenishment water revenue.