California Department of Water Resources Initiates Planning for Single Delta Tunnel

(SACRAMENTO, CA – May 2, 2019) The Department of Water Resources took formal steps today to withdraw proposed permits for the two-tunnel WaterFix project and begin a renewed environmental review and planning process for a smaller, single-tunnel project through the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. The actions follow Gov. Gavin Newsom’s announcement earlier this year of plans to pursue a smaller, one-tunnel project.

“It’s critical that we address water supply and environmental needs in the Delta. Improved conveyance — if designed, operated and governed in the right way — is almost certainly part of the solution. Pausing to take a fresh look at what the best answer is for California’s communities, farms and the environment is a smart move at this time.”

• Maurice Hall, Associate VP, Ecosystems – Water, Environmental Defense Fund