South San Joaquin Irrigation District

In 1909, the South San Joaquin Irrigation District was established to provide a reliable and economical source of irrigation water for agricultural use in, and surrounding rural areas of Escalon, Manteca and Ripon. SSJID's historic water rights allow for several hydroelectric power plants on a series of dams and reservoirs on the Stanislaus River. SSJID and Oakdale Irrigation District completed the original Melones Reservoir in 1926, and have co-owned the Tri-Dam Project, consisting of Donnells, Beardsley and Tulloch reservoirs and powerhouses since 1957.

In 1909, the South San Joaquin Irrigation District was established to provide a reliable and economical source of irrigation water and flood control for the agricultural areas in and around Escalon, Ripon and Manteca. The formation of the district did more than just bring needed water to convert 70,000 acres into productive farmland. It literally gave life to Manteca, Ripon and Escalon. A strong vision of thriving, productive agricultural and residential communities drove us to become one of the most progressive water districts in California.