The San Joaquin River Ecosystem Restoration and Water Management Program in California’s San Joaquin Valley was a historic initiative by the Bureau of Reclamation focused on restoring the San Joaquin River. It was one of the largest ecosystem restoration projects in the United States, with two primary goals: restoration and water management. The program spanned over 152 miles of the river, restoring flows to approximately 59 miles of dry riverbed, repairing roadways, and improving channels and fish passageways.

Kenall supported the project by providing geotechnical drilling, engineering, and civil design services. Additional efforts included landowner coordination, topographic surveys, and subsurface utility engineering (SUE) utility clearances. Stabilization measures were also completed, such as new fill and compaction, retaining walls, and anchors. Civil plans, specifications, and construction cost estimates were prepared for repairs in areas like Reach 2B, Sack Dam, Arroyo Canal, and the Mendota Pool Bypass.

This high-profile project faced various challenges, including work in environmentally sensitive and non-urban areas, as well as delays related to accessing private property. To address these obstacles, project personnel developed a detailed Subsurface Investigation Work Plan (SIWP) to reassure agencies and landowners about the project’s execution. By taking a proactive approach and collaborating directly with landowners, the team accelerated the environmental and permitting processes and gained access to restricted locations quickly.