Cantua Creek (Fresno Slough tributary)

Cantua Creek is an ephemeral stream in Fresno County, California. It is a tributary of Fresno Slough, which is part of the San Joaquin River watershed. The creek primarily drains agricultural lands west of Interstate 5 in the San Joaquin Valley.

The flow in Cantua Creek is highly variable, depending almost entirely on rainfall and agricultural runoff. During periods of heavy rain, the creek can experience significant flows, but it is often dry for much of the year, particularly during the summer months.

The creek's watershed is largely characterized by intensive agriculture, including the cultivation of crops such as cotton, tomatoes, and almonds. As a result, water quality in Cantua Creek is impacted by agricultural practices, including pesticide and fertilizer use. Efforts are underway to improve water quality in the creek and the broader Fresno Slough watershed. The creek plays a role in conveying irrigation drainage water and storm runoff.