Newsom announces key permit for Delta Conveyance Project, boosting water infrastructure

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (UI) — Governor Newsom marked a key milestone in the state’s effort to modernize its water infrastructure through the Delta Conveyance Project, receiving a required Incidental Take Permit for the Sacramento River tunnel.

This permit includes provisions to minimize the environmental impact on endangered species during construction and operation.

“California doesn’t have to choose between safeguarding endangered species and protecting our water supply — this permit demonstrates we can do both,” Governor Newsom said in a statement.

The Delta Conveyance Project is designed to enhance the state's ability to capture and move more water, especially during atmospheric rivers, to better withstand drought conditions. The project includes tunneling facilities and other infrastructure improvements along the Sacramento River, which will help California store and transport excess water more efficiently during high-flow events.

The project aims to address the challenges posed by climate change, which is expected to reduce California’s water supply by 10%. The state’s aging water infrastructure, designed over 60 years ago, isn’t equipped to handle the extreme weather swings between droughts and floods that are becoming more frequent.

“We are proceeding with confidence towards implementing this critical project to protect our state’s primary supply of clean, affordable water,” said Karla Nemeth, Director of California’s Department of Water Resources.

As part of the permit, the Department of Water Resources, in collaboration with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, must implement measures to protect local wildlife. These measures include constructing protective fencing, limiting construction during sensitive wildlife periods, and conducting pre-construction habitat surveys.

The Delta Conveyance Project is a critical part of California's ongoing efforts to upgrade its water management system, ensuring better water reliability while balancing environmental protections.

Related News

From Archive

Comments

{{ error }}
{{ comment.comment.Name }} • {{ comment.timeAgo }}
{{ comment.comment.Text }}