Potential Jersey Island Purchase and Restoration
Developing Strong Partnerships for a Reliable Water Future
Diablo Water District currently has an opportunity to purchase Jersey Island from Ironhouse Sanitary District.
Acquiring Jersey Island is a rare opportunity to protect and restore 3,570 acres of habitat critical to the health of the Delta and our water supply while expanding local control of our precious water resources, maximizing ecological benefits, and providing public access.
Our mission as a community-focused water provider dedicated to protecting water resources has guided the decision to enter into a contractual agreement for a potential purchase. The agreement does not commit the District to purchasing the island; instead, it provides the opportunity to conduct a comprehensive assessment of its soil and environmental conditions.
The conceptual plan shown is being used to develop partnerships and seek grant funding. Should the District acquire the island, a more detailed and comprehensive plan will be developed through community and partner input.
The District has actively pursued grant funding to contribute to the purchase of the island and has already received funding commitments from several philanthropic organizations. If a purchase moves forward, our goal is to acquire the island without funding from ratepayers and are focused on partnership funding to support the purchase and future improvements.
Legislative Information Sheet - September 2025Legislative Information Sheet - January 2026Legislative Information Presentation - February 2026Legislative Information Presentation - May 2026Legislative Information Presentation - CIWG
Community partners have already expressed interest in exploring future restoration opportunities that could include wetlands, trails, camping, and other recreational uses. If the island is purchased, we are committed to engaging the community in shaping a space that balances public access with the protection and preservation of local wildlife habitat.
California Legislature - Letter of Support California State University, East Bay - Letter of Support Central Valley Joint Venture - Letter of Support City of Oakley - Letter of SupportEast Bay Regional Park District - Letter of SupportGordon and Betty Moore Foundation - Letter of Support Greenbelt Alliance - Letter of SupportRD 830 - Letter of SupportUC Berkeley - Letter of Support