July 22, 2019 - The Merced Irrigation District and the Merced County Historical Society jointly announced that a community celebration and exhibit in recognition of MID’s 100-year Anniversary is planned for November.

“This is such a monumental, historic event,” said MID General Manager John Sweigard. “We appreciate the support of the Merced County Historical Society and look forward to showcasing the challenges and accomplishments our community’s irrigation district has faced over the last century.”

Said Courthouse Museum Director Sarah Lim: “We are very excited about this exhibit. Water sustains our county’s farms, ranches, and families. There is a rich history to share with local residents and visitors about the pioneers in irrigation – a story of vision, trial, persistence and triumph.”

The celebration and exhibit at the Merced County Courthouse Museum will open to the public beginning November 7, 2019. The date coincides with the formation of the District: MID was established in November 1919 when Merced County voters supported the formation of the Merced Irrigation District.

Once formed, MID purchased the Crocker Huffman Land and Water Company irrigation system, and constructed the original Exchequer Dam on the Merced River at the site of the Exchequer Mining Co. In the late-1960s, the District built the larger New Exchequer Dam, creating a bigger reservoir – Lake McClure – for local water supply and flood control.

Now, 100 years since its formation, MID provides irrigation water to approximately 2,200 growers in eastern Merced County and non-profit, public electricity to about 10,000 residential and commercial customers. MID continues to advocate for responsible environmental stewardship and restoration, as well as being a key stakeholder in developing solutions to local groundwater challenges.

The exhibit at the Merced County Courthouse will help tell the fascinating story of how Merced Irrigation District was formed and how it has evolved over the past 100 years. The exhibit at the Merced County Courthouse will help tell the fascinating story of how Merced Irrigation District was formed and how it has evolved over the past 100 years. More information can be found at www.MIDisThere.com or www.mercedmuseum.org
Source: MID