About the Project

The Searsville Watershed Restoration Project involves:

• Reestablishing natural free-flowing creeks and sediment transport processes
• Establishing fish passage through a tunnel to be constructed through the base of the Searsville Dam
• Restoring streams and riparian habitats immediately upstream of the dam
• Flushing a substantial amount of sediment currently trapped behind the dam
• Replacing the surface water diversion and storage capacity through modifications to the downstream San Francisquito Creek Pump Station and Felt Reservoir

This will transform the area of the current Searsville Reservoir into a confluence valley, complete with freeflowing streams and a natural riparian forest. This project will also allow for sediment to be transported to the bay where it will help restore natural functions and fortify the shoreline.