The Lindo Channel Recharge Feasibility Study evaluated the feasibility of enhancing groundwater recharge along Lindo Channel in the Vina Subbasin. The project establishes a strong technical foundation for evaluating recharge opportunities, supports future decision-making, and contributes to long-term groundwater sustainability goals under SGMA.

This effort aimed to support groundwater sustainability in areas of Chico experiencing declining water levels. By enhancing recharge, the project aimed to identify opportunities to:

• Improve groundwater levels for domestic well users.
• Support groundwater-dependent ecosystems along Big Chico Creek and Lindo Channel.
• Optimize an existing resource to promote long-term water resilience for the community.

Work on this project was conducted in coordination with the City of Chico and funded by a California Department of Water Resources (DWR) Sustainable Groundwater Management grant.

Feasibility Report now Available:

Project Feasibility and Alternatives Report 

Lindo Channel Feasibility Report_April 2026.pdf

 This is a feasibility study, the outcomes of which are documented in this report. The results from these analyses will be used to inform the scope of work, next stages, and/or feasibility of future projects identified in the GSP.  Public comment on this or other SGM grant funded studies is welcome and will be consolidated and provided to the SHAC and Board as part of the development of GSP Projects and Management Actions or grant applications. Please submit written comments via the form linked below or email correspondence to VinaGSApubliccomments@chicoca.gov. 

Comment Form

Key Accomplishments: 

• Feasibility and Alternatives Analysis: The project team used field tests and digital models to evaluate recharge at different stream flows. We summarized these results in a report for the California Department of Water Resources (DWR). This report outlines when water can be safely diverted, estimates the amount of water that can be stored, reviews permit requirements, and suggests channel modifications to guide future projects.
• Final Implementation Design of the Lindo Channel Recharge Pilot Project: Instead of building the project under the current grant, the team focused on early design planning. This planning sets the stage for future construction when more funding becomes available.
• Monitoring Network: The project team established a monitoring network within Lindo Channel and nearby private wells. This setup allowed the team to track groundwater levels and understand exactly how surface water and groundwater interact in the area.
• Outreach: Keeping the community involved was a priority from start to finish. The team hosted a public workshop and worked closely with local agencies and advisory groups to share information about groundwater recharge opportunities. All required updates and documents were submitted to DWR.

Project Benefits

• Improved Understanding of Recharge Potential: Field-based infiltration testing and monitoring data indicate the channel can support recharge under a range of flow conditions, including both typical and elevated flow periods.
• Benefits to Domestic Wells and Ecosystems: Lindo Channel recharge can benefit nearby domestic wells and groundwater-dependent ecosystems by increasing recharge in areas experiencing groundwater-level declines.
• Baseline Dataset: Installation of monitoring infrastructure and collection of groundwater data established a baseline dataset for evaluating groundwater response and refining recharge estimates.
• Foundation for Future Projects: The data and feasibility analysis provide a strong foundation for evaluating future recharge projects, informing decision-making, and supporting SGMA-related planning efforts.

 Consultant: Geosyntec/West Yost  

Project Partner: City of Chico  

Total Project Budget: $330,000 

Project Schedule

Meeting Materials

Lindo Channel Public Meeting Presentation 11.13.2024.pdfAssessing Recharge Potential - Lindo Channel.pdfDraft TM Lindo Channel Statistical Flow Analysis.pdfLindo Channel Presentation March 2026.pptx