Brood habitat for ducks and an irrigation system for farmers: a California case study
Date
1996-06
Authors
Cundiff-Gee, Marilyn, author
Smith, Dave, author
U.S. Committee on Irrigation and Drainage, publisher
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
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Abstract
We developed a project to restore 104 acres of wetlands and increase the economic viability and commercial flexibility associated with a wheat farm in the Sacramento Valley, California. Prior to the project, only 270 acres of the 910-acre farm could be irrigated; the remainder of the property was undeveloped land suitable only for dryland wheat and safflower production. A conjunctive use project was developed to restore wetlands and improve irrigation and farming capability. Seven wetland units were constructed on areas of the farm that produced low crop yields and were costly to maintain. A comprehensive irrigation system was developed that included two pumps, two wells, and numerous water control structures. A tailwater recovery system was completed that maximized water supply and flexibility for both agricultural and wetland purposes. In return for the capital improvements, a 25-year management agreement was developed requiring the landowners to annually (1) flood the restored wetlands from February through July, (2) grow 350 acres of wheat, and (3) delay wheat harvest until after the nesting season. While creating spring and summer wetland habitat for duck broods and a multitude of other avian species, the project provided irrigation capability for an additional 505 acres, bringing the total irrigated lands to 775 acres. A critical component of the project was the unique partnership developed between state and federal agencies, a nonprofit organization and private landowners. By pooling fiscal and technical resources and providing the landowner with incentives, the following benefits were realized: increased commercial farming opportunities, wetland restoration and long-term management, and most importantly, the creation of an environment wherein development and management of wetlands has become an asset, rather than a liability to the landowner.
Description
Presented at Water for agriculture and wildlife and the environment: win-win opportunities: proceedings from the USCID wetlands seminar on June 27-29, 1996 in Bismarck, North Dakota.