The Yolo Bypass plays a crucial role in protecting the Sacramento region from flooding. It is also central to a significant agricultural economy, a critical water supply delivery system, and an ecosystem of national significance:
Flood
Risk Management
Conveys 80% of Sacramento River watershed flows during floods, reducing risk to approximately 950,000 people, 284,000 structures, and $150 billion in critical infrastructure.
Ecosystem of National Significance
The bypass supports 22 threatened and endangered species and is a key stopover on the Pacific Flyway supporting millions of waterfowl annually. The entire bypass, and particularly the 16,800-acre Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area, provides habitat for over 200 bird species.
The Fremont Weir Wildlife Area provides grassland and riparian habitat. In addition, the bypass is uniquely situated along the migration corridor for federally protected salmon, steelhead, and sturgeon.
Agricultural Economy
The Yolo Bypass contains approximately 47,000 acres of agricultural land, making it an important contributor to the nation’s food supply and economy. The surrounding counties of Yolo, Solano, and Sacramento have more than 900,000 acres of farmland in production within the area served by the Sacramento River Flood Control System.
Water Supply Delivery System
Portions of the Yolo Bypass serve as mitigation areas for the State Water Project and Central Valley Project, which provide drinking water to nearly 27 million Californians and irrigation to 2.5 million acres of agricultural land.
Recreation
The Yolo Bypass provides local and regional recreation, tourism, and environmental education opportunities including hiking, fishing, hunting, wildlife viewing, and boating. There are three wildlife areas managed by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife: Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area, Fremont Weir Wildlife Area, and Sacramento Bypass Wildlife Area.