Lions Park Groundwater Recharge and Meter Project
Project Overview
The City of Kerman is making advancements toward achieving groundwater sustainability and reducing groundwater pumping within its boundaries. In December 2024, the City completed the Lions Park Groundwater Recharge and Meter Project, a significant step toward sustainability.
The project interties Kerman’s existing stormwater collection facility to Fresno Irrigation District’s (FID) Siskiyou Canal, allowing the City to divert surface water for groundwater recharge. A water flow meter was also installed to ensure accurate monitoring of water diverted, supporting efficient recharge operations. This project is expected to recharge an estimated 260 acre-feet of groundwater annually.
This project highlights the partnership between the City of Kerman and FID. It also represents a significant milestone for the City, demonstrating its commitment to expanding recharge capabilities, offsetting groundwater pumping, and advancing sustainability goals as part of the North Kings GSA. By completing projects like the Lions Park Recharge and Meter project, the City of Kerman is actively contributing to long-term sustainability of its water resources for its community.
Project Highlights:
Receives surface water from FID’s Siskiyou Canal
Recharges an estimated 260 acre-feet a year
Completed December 2024
Installed meter and associated telemetry to better account for water being delivered and recharged
Project Update
On November 13, 2025, the Lions Park Recharge Project was honored as Project of the Year by the American Public Works Association Central California Chapter. This recognition highlights the strong partnership between the City of Kerman and the Fresno Irrigation District and reflects the project’s long-term value in delivering local groundwater recharge.
City Manager John Janson accepted the award on behalf of the City of Kerman. This achievement underscores the importance of collaborative projects that expand recharge capacity and support sustainable groundwater management across the region.
Project Funding
The Lions Park Recharge and Meter Project was funded by the California Department of Water Resources’ Sustainable Groundwater Management Grant Program.
Department of Water Resources
Sustainable Groundwater Management Grant Program
