Merced Irrigation District (MID) is a public utility in Merced County, California, committed to delivering essential water and power services. The district operates key water storage facilities including the New Exchequer and McSwain dams, integral to the 1964 Merced River Development Project and licensed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). MID provides an average of 300,000 acre feet of water annually to approximately 2,200 agricultural growers, facilitating local agriculture which generates $120 million in revenue and supports around 3,600 jobs within the community.
MID's water system is expansive, encompassing 164,000 acres of land, with 132,000 acres designated as irrigable. Its infrastructure includes an 862-mile distribution network of canals, pipelines, and natural waterways, ensuring the efficient management of water resources. Additionally, MID maintains conjunctive management activities through its wells and utilizes stormwater in their groundwater recharge basins.
Beyond providing irrigation, MID is dedicated to environmental stewardship and recreational opportunities. With five recreation areas adjacent to lakes McClure and McSwain, the district promotes various recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and camping. Through its hydroelectric facilities, MID also plays a critical role in renewable energy, generating up to 107 megawatts of emission-free electricity since it began serving residential and commercial electric customers in 1996.
MID aims to manage local resources sustainably while supporting the community’s water needs and enhancing local quality of life. With nearly 200 employees, the organization is deeply connected to the region, ensuring that residents benefit from both reliable utility services and maintained natural landscapes.
