Mormon Slough is a 6.3 mile waterway winding through South and East Stockton. It stretches from the Stockton Diverting Canal on E. Main Street and flows to the deep water shipping channel near the DMV and Morelli Boat Launch.
In 2023, Restore the Delta and the MSRA began envisioning the slough as a healthier, safer, and more vibrant greenway that is shaped by the people who live alongside it.
Twenty years ago, the Army Corps of Engineers rejected Mormon Slough for levee upgrades, due to a low benefit-cost ratio. A traditional analysis prioritized economic assets over the protection of vulnerable communities. We’re flipping that script.
We’re restoring natural landscapes, habitats, and green spaces to support vibrant neighborhoods.
• Cleaning up and removing pollutants from the slough will bring back fish, birds, and native plants
• Improved water quality can help fight harmful algae blooms
• A connected greenway with parks will connect residents to nature and make our neighborhoods more enjoyable
Restoration isn’t just about the environment, it’s about opportunity.
• Cleaner, safer public spaces attract foot traffic and support nearby businesses
• Local input ensures solutions build resources for the community
• Investment in shared spaces helps build long term neighborhood wellbeing
A healthier slough means a healthier Stockton.
• Cleaner water and removal of toxic waste reduces environmental hazards
• New parks, walking paths, and recreation spaces promote active living
• More trees and greenery improve air quality and reduce extreme heat
• Safe, accessible outdoor spaces strengthen community connections
We’re preparing our community for the future.
• Upgrading levees and reducing flood risk protects homes and businesses
• Improved visibility and access make the area safer and more welcoming
• Resilient infrastructure strengthens the community for generations to come
We are currently in the planning and community engagement phase, funded through philanthropic contributions and a regional grant (North Valley Thrive) from the California Jobs First Fund.
The construction phase will use existing state and federal funds, including resources through the Inflation Reduction Act, which prioritizes investment in communities like ours. We are not asking community members for money, but rather we are asking for your ideas and input.
While this is a community-led initiative, we are working in partnership with city and county agencies, including the City of Stockton, City County, County officials, and the San Joaquin Area Flood Control Agency.
The city is a vital partner, with property and stormwater infrastructure surrounding the slough, and will be important contributors in future phases. Currently, we are in the phase of the project where we are doing the community visoning and outreach to ensure the project is grounded in community needs.
We are taking all necessary precautions to address contamination and pollutants. We are working closely with River Partners, experts in land, soil, water, and habitat restoration, as well as the San Joaquin Area Flood Control Agency to ensure the slough is safe before reintroducing water into the channel.
As part of this work, we will partner with the San Joaquin Housing Authority and Continuous Care facilities to respectfully work with unhoused residents living on or near Mormon Slough. We want to ensure people are connected to resources and treated with dignity.
