Palmdale Ditch Conversion Project

Constructed in the 1880s, the 8.5 mile Palmdale Ditch serves as a critical raw-water conveyance system delivering water from Littlerock Reservoir to Lake Palmdale. Predominantly unlined and open earth, the ditch has lost significant water through evaporation and percolation. Some portions were converted to pipelines over time, but nearly 70 percent remained open. The Palmdale Ditch Conversion Project will upgrade aging infrastructure to reduce water loss, improve system reliability and water quality, and lower ongoing maintenance needs.

Upon completion, the project will reduce water losses, improve system efficiency, and provide a more reliable raw water supply to support potable water treatment for the Palmdale Water District service area. These improvements will maximize limited water resources and strengthen long-term water resilience for the community. Garney worked closely with the Palmdale Water District and the design engineer, Hazen and Sawyer.

Solutions

Ditch-to-Pipeline Conversion: The project converts the predominantly open-earth Palmdale Ditch into an underground 48-inch reinforced concrete pipeline. This approach reduces water loss associated with evaporation and seepage while improving overall system reliability.

Working with the Natural Landscape: The pipeline alignment largely follows the existing ditch corridor, minimizing new ground disturbance and preserving the surrounding terrain. Steep terrain and roadway crossings are handled through underground pipeline construction, culverts, and tunnels instead of extensive open excavation. By adapting the design to the natural contours of the landscape, the project reduces environmental impacts and maintains compatibility with surrounding land uses and existing infrastructure.

Community Collaboration: Garney worked closely with the Palmdale Water District and multiple agencies throughout the project. The work involved coordinating with local municipalities for roadway crossings, restoring paving, and managing access. The team also partnered with environmental monitors, biologists, and tribal representatives to meet regulatory requirements during ground-disturbing work.

Project Status

The project is under construction, with work underway on pipeline installation. Progress continues while accommodating environmental access restrictions in some areas. The project is set to be completed later this year.