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Surface Storage Investigations

North-of-the-Delta Offstream Storage Investigation (NODOS)
Sites Reservoir Area

A new era of project formulation is indicated by a broad array of benefits including restoration actions for the Sacramento River and the Delta supported by a dedicated Ecosystem Restoration Account, improved water supply reliability for urban, agricultural and environmental (Environmental Water Account and refuge) users, and improved Delta water quality for both aquatic species and human consumption.

DWR and U.S. Bureau of Reclamation are working in partnership with local, regional, State, and federal agencies, and stakeholders to study these North-of-the-Delta Offstream Storage opportunities.

Planning Objectives

Primary:

  • Increase water supplies to meet existing contract requirements, including improved water supply reliability, and provide greater flexibility in water management for agricultural, environmental, and municipal and industrial (M&I) users
  • Increase the survival of anadromous fish populations in the Sacramento River as well as the health and survivability of other aquatic species
  • Improve Delta Water Quality

Secondary:

  • Provide ancillary hydropower benefits to the statewide power grid
  • Develop additional recreational opportunities
  • Create incremental flood-damage reduction opportunities to support the northern California flood management system

Status

  • DWR and U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, in coordination with the Planning Partnership, are preparing a site-specific Environmental Impact Statement/Environmental Impact Report.
  • DWR and U.S. Bureau of Reclamation are developing Federal planning documents.
General Schedule
  • Complete Feasibility Report and EIS/EIR by Winter 2010

Accomplishments

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