California approves water-right permit for Sites Reservoir

Climate · First reported 7 Nov, 21:48 · Updated 22:13

Image: Wikimedia Commons · NASA Johnson Space Center · Public domain

California’s State Water Resources Control Board approved the final water-right permit for the proposed Sites Reservoir. The project has drawn objections from Native American tribes and environmental groups, while its supporters say it would add water storage for dry periods.

The State Water Resources Control Board approved the final water-right permit for the proposed reservoir in Glenn and Colusa counties.
The off-stream reservoir is designed to store up to 1.5 million acre-feet, drawing water from the Sacramento River during high-flow periods for use in prolonged dry conditions.
Tribal representatives and environmental groups object to the project; construction is scheduled to begin in 2027, with operations expected by 2033.

Summary written by Lux AI from 2 articles

Key facts

Permit: The State Water Resources Control Board approved the final water-right permit.
Location: Glenn and Colusa counties in Northern California.
Planned capacity: 1.5 million acre-feet.
Construction target: Scheduled to begin in 2027.
Expected operations: By 2033.
Claimed household supply: The articles say the reservoir could supply more than 4.5 million homes for one year.