The California Water Commission has unanimously approved $268.9 million in funding for the Sites Reservoir Project, a major water storage initiative in Northern California. The decision, made during a public meeting, marks a significant step forward for the project, which aims to increase water supply reliability for communities, farms, and businesses across the state.
The funding will support the planning, design, and environmental review phases of the reservoir, which is proposed to be built in the Sacramento Valley near the city of Anderson in Shasta County. The project has been in development for years and is seen as a critical piece of California's water infrastructure, especially in light of ongoing drought conditions and climate change impacts.
Commissioners emphasized the project's potential to capture and store stormwater runoff, providing a buffer against dry years. The unanimous vote reflects broad support among water agencies and stakeholders, though some environmental groups have raised concerns about the reservoir's impact on local ecosystems and Native American cultural sites.
The Sites Reservoir Project is expected to create thousands of jobs during construction and operation phases. Proponents argue it will enhance water security for millions of Californians while supporting agricultural production in the Central Valley.
The next steps include finalizing permits and securing additional funding from federal and state sources.