California's Department of Water Resources has approved the Delta Conveyance project, a plan to construct a tunnel beneath the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta. This decision marks a major advancement in the project, long championed by Gov. Gavin Newsom as a crucial measure against climate change's impact on water supply.
Despite facing opposition from environmentalists, state officials laud the multi-billion-dollar project as a critical step in modernizing water infrastructure. The tunnel aims to adapt to the challenges posed by changing precipitation patterns and expected decreases in water supply. By diverting water upstream from the Sacramento River and circumventing the Delta, the project is anticipated to provide about 500,000 acre-feet of water annually.
This development is set to face extensive legal challenges, reflecting ongoing debates over water management and environmental impact.
Spokane Treatment Facility Offers Virtual 360-Degree Tour
The city of Spokane, Washington, is inviting people to take a virtual tour of the Riverside Park Water Reclamation Facility, the community's oldest water recycling center. Offering a 360-degree video experience, the tour showcases the facility's role in processing 34 mgd of wastewater, and its importance in purifying water for the Spokane River.
Established in 1958, the facility has seen numerous technological upgrades, compliance with evolving water quality standards and improvements in odor control for the benefit of nearby communities. Renowned for its high-quality effluent, the facility has received accolades for operational and maintenance excellence, as well as for its continuous innovative advancements.
New Mexico Advances $500 Million Reuse Plan for Drought Mitigation
In response to increasing drought conditions, New Mexico is allocating $500 million to purchase reused water under a plan announced by Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham.
To ensure safety and standardization in water reuse, the New Mexico Environment Department is preparing to propose statewide rules.
