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Levees & Canals

There are approximately 42 miles of levees that surround Natomas which Reclamation District 1000 serves and protects. The levees were built to prevent the American and Sacramento Rivers from flooding the Natomas Basin annually and allowing for the agricultural and urbanization you see today.

What should I do if I see a problem on the levee? 

If you see a problem on the levee, immediately contact our district office by phone at 916-922-1449, or use our website contact form for less pressing issues. 

Can we walk on the levee? 

The levees and canals are posted as "No Trespassing" because when we are performing maintenance or during a flood event. The public should stay off the levees and canals for their own safety. When District staff is not actively maintaining the levee or in a flood, the public may use the levees and canals for walking, jogging, or biking. Motor vehicles (other than those used for flood-related activities and maintenance) are prohibited in or on our facilities at all times. This includes golf carts, motorbikes, and quad runners.

Are there parking restrictions along the levee across from my house on Garden Highway? 

The levee area is posted as "No Trespassing" However, we will allow public access to the levee if there is no active maintenance or flood work occurring. Public motor vehicle access is prohibited on the levee at all times which includes parking. On occasion, vehicles have parked along the shoulder of Garden Highway; please contact the appropriate law enforcement agency about restrictions on parking adjacent to Garden Highway.

Can we fish in the canals? 

The District's canals are posted as "No Trespassing" due to the potential dangers presented by our maintenance activities or our need for access during a flood. However, as long as we are not actively performing maintenance or in a flood, residents may fish in the canals through a valid fishing license is required. Boating of any type is not allowed in District canals at any time. No access of any kind is allowed in the areas around our pump stations due to the dangers of the pumps, motors, and electrical power. 

What is a levee "boil"? 

A levee boil is caused by water seeping under the levee and pushing its way up to the surface on the landside of the levee. During a flood or not, it is important that any leaks, seepage, or boils be reported to the District as soon as possible so District crews can assess the situation and take appropriate action to prevent degradation of the levee.