Merced Irrigation District has been looking for ways to raise the spillway at Exchequer Dam. That could have a devastating effect on Mariposa County and the Merced River. The recent crisis at Lake Oroville has made us all aware of the importance of dam design and safety and the related spillways.

How does the New Exchequer Dam at Lake McClure and its spillways compare with the Lake Oroville situation? What happens to the water that is released from Lake McClure? Does it flow to the ocean?

The Merced River forms the basis for Mariposa County’s tourism based economy.  Starting in the high country of Yosemite National Park, the Wild and Scenic Merced works its way down to Yosemite Valley, via steep gorges and waterfalls, then out of the park and down through the Merced River Canyon that so many locals and tourists enjoy as they drive up Highway 140.  It is very unusual to have a free flowing river and whitewater rapids so accessible to so many.  The lower Merced River, below Briceburg, however is less accessible and offers a unique wilderness opportunity for willing to make the hike from the Railroad Flat Campground down to the North Fork. Plus, when conditions are right, it provides some of the best white water rafting in California.

Currently there are plans underway to improve access to the lower Merced via a multi-purpose trails that would allow access from the North Fork to Bagby and along Lake McClure and down to Merced This trail would support hiking, fishing, biking, equestrian use, birdwatching, wildflower viewing, etc. significantly expanding the nonYosemite-based recreational opportunities in our County. At the same time there are threats to the Wild and Scenic Status of the Merced that make this section of the River so unique and desirable. 

To learn the answer to all these questions and find out about plans to expand recreational activities on the Merced River, please attend a meeting on Saturday, May 13, 2017 at 9:45 a.m. at Miners Roadhouse. Steve Smallcombe will give the presentation. There is no cost. The meeting is open to the public. If you would like to order breakfast for yourself please arrive at 9am. Free coffee and water will be provided. This event is sponsored by the Mariposa Democratic Club. 

Pictured: New Exchequer Dam