This footage was filmed and produced 8 February 2024.

In a significant achievement for flood protection in the Sacramento Valley, the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) recently announced the completion of the Lower Elkhorn Basin Levee Setback Project. This project has expanded the Yolo Bypass, allowing floodwaters from the Sacramento River to flow into the newly created space.

The project, which involved the construction of seven miles of new levee, aims to reduce flood risk for over 780,000 residents in Sacramento, West Sacramento, and Woodland. By increasing the capacity of the bypass and lowering flood stage levels in both the Sacramento River and Yolo Bypass, the project will help protect $53 billion in assets and provide enhanced habitat for native fish, birds, and other wildlife.

DWR's efforts have not only bolstered flood protection for the region but also improved the ecological health of the area. The expanded bypass will offer more space for floodwaters to spread out, reducing the likelihood of catastrophic flooding events.

This milestone marks a significant step forward in the ongoing efforts to enhance flood resilience in the Sacramento Valley and underscores the importance of proactive measures to protect communities and the environment from the impacts of severe weather events.