Merced, CA (October 16, 2025) — Merced Irrigation District and Merced County are advising the public to exercise caution due to higher flows in and around the Merced River this October. The increased flows are part of multiple ongoing efforts to support the migration of Chinook salmon along the river. The temporary pulse flow may cause swift and unpredictable currents, posing a potential risk to those engaging in recreational activities on the river below New Exchequer and McSwain dams.
The increased flows will begin on Thursday, October 16, 2025, and continue through the weekend, ending on Tuesday, October 21, 2025. Anyone near the river should exercise extreme caution during this time.
“We are extremely proud of our ongoing efforts to support salmon migration and rearing – as well as restoring habitat damaged by historic dredge mining on the river,” said Public and Government Relations Manager Mike Jensen. “These pulse flows are incredibly helpful to efforts to attract salmon upstream for their fall runs from the Pacific Ocean. However, it also creates conditions that elevate the need to use caution around the river during this time.”
“During these pulse flows, conditions on the Merced River can change rapidly,” said Captain Aaron Rosenberg, Merced County Sheriff’s Office, Dive Rescue & Recovery Team. “What may appear calm from the bank is often cold, fast, and deceptively dangerous. Our Search and Rescue teams have seen firsthand how quickly a situation can turn tragic. Please enjoy the river from a safe distance, keep children and pets away from the water’s edge, wear a life jacket near the river, and remember—a safe choice on shore prevents a dangerous rescue in the water.”
“The Merced River carries surprisingly high volumes of cold, fast-moving water,” said Merced County Office of Emergency Services Manager Adam Amaral. “Please prioritize safety and stay out of the river, especially as expected high flows bring increased dangers.”
The pulse flows will be released from New Exchequer Dam, resulting in sudden fluctuations in water levels downstream. These higher-than-normal flows are critical for aiding salmon in their migration, providing the necessary conditions for successful spawning.
Key Safety Precautions:
- Avoid entering the river: Due to the swift currents and elevated water levels, swimming, fishing, and boating are strongly discouraged during the release period.
- Exercise caution near riverbanks: High flows can lead to erosion and make riverbanks unstable. Please remain at a safe distance from the water’s edge.
The salmon pulse flow release is part of a coordinated effort with state and federal agencies to ensure the sustainability of the Merced River’s fish populations, especially the Chinook salmon, which are vital to the region’s ecological health.
In recent years, more than 2 miles of prime salmon rearing habitat has been restored on the River in the Snelling area with additional restoration planned in the coming months and years. Efforts to support and restore crucial river habitat remain ongoing for MID.
