California Today

Data center sues for Colorado River water access

15 June 2026 16:10

A data center developer in Imperial Valley has filed a lawsuit seeking 260 million gallons of Colorado River water annually, reversing earlier promises to avoid the drought-stricken source. - The developer, Imperial Valley Computer Manufacturing, had pledged to use recycled wastewater but turned to IID after city negotiations failed.

- The company plans to fallow 160 acres of farmland to offset water needs, arguing it can divert the water. - The project faces opposition from residents and officials over environmental and public health concerns.

The lawsuit is the latest turn in a yearlong effort to secure approval for the massive AI complex.

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BrawleyImperialEl CentrowaterlawsuitenvironmenttechnologyImperial CountyLocalMoney