On May 11, Governor Newsom announced $290 million in funding for flood proposals, as well as funds to raise the Corcoran Levee in the Tulare Basin. The governor released the flood infrastructure package ahead of releasing the May budget revision today.
The funding will go toward flood response and projects, as described in the governor’s announcement:
- $125 million to support preparedness, response and recovery connected to the 2023 storms, with dollars moved from drought efforts to flood contingency;
- $75 million to support local flood control projects;
- $25 million to expand the California Small Agricultural Business Drought Relief Grant Program for direct assistance to eligible agriculture-related businesses affected by the storms;
- $25 million for potential disaster relief and response costs in this fiscal year for urgent needs;
- $40 million for the San Joaquin Floodplain restoration
The $290 million for flood investments is in addition to the $202 million proposed in January.
Corcoran Levee
In addition, funding will be provided to raise the Corcoran Levee in the Tulare Basin to provide for public safety and protect critical infrastructure. The state dollars will allow the local flood control district to raise the levee to 192 feet.
The governor’s press release stated the funds “will be contingent upon on locals’ ability to meet a set of criteria to ensure the work is done efficiently and at the lowest possible cost to taxpayers.”
Capturing Floodwater
Governor Newsom’s budget also contains proposed legislation that would codify executive orders to allow for the diversion of flood flows for groundwater recharge purposes. The legislation details conditions around which floodwater could be diverted without permits while not impacting water rights.
Please click HERE to read further information on the governor’s website.