California, September 4, 2025
News Summary
California is preparing for significant changes in water management with the Bureau of Reclamation’s announcement of the North-to-South Water Transfers initiative. Set to begin potentially by 2028, this program aims to transfer water from sellers in Northern California to buyers in Southern California and the San Francisco Bay Area. An environmental impact statement (EIS) will assess the project’s implications, with public scoping meetings scheduled and open for comments until October 3, 2023.
California is set to see significant changes in its water management strategy as the Bureau of Reclamation has announced plans to prepare an environmental impact statement (EIS) for proposed “North-to-South Water Transfers.” This initiative aims to begin annual water transfers as early as 2028, facilitating the movement of water from sellers in Northern California to buyers located in Southern California and the San Francisco Bay Area.
The EIS will explore the potential effects of these annual water transfers, which are designed to address existing water demands without creating additional needs. With California’s ongoing struggles with water shortages, the proposed transfers could play a vital role in helping regions effectively manage and allocate their water resources.
To engage the public in the EIS preparation process, the Bureau of Reclamation has scheduled two virtual public scoping meetings that will be held mid-to-late September. These meetings are intended to inform the public about the project and to gather input regarding the EIS scope and possible alternatives. Additionally, the Bureau will be accepting written comments on the EIS content until October 3 via mail or email, directed to Nicole Johnson at the Bureau’s Sacramento office.
More information concerning the meetings and the overall project can be accessed through the North-to-South Water Transfers website. The publication of a notice of intent in the Federal Register signifies the formal initiation of this project, underscoring the Bureau of Reclamation’s commitment to conducting an extensive National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) review. This process will assess potential environmental impacts associated with the proposed water transfers.
The EIS will define a range of potential water transfers, primarily from upstream sellers located in Northern California, near the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, to buyers situated south of the Delta and within the San Francisco Bay Area. In California, water transfers have become a common strategy for resource planning, particularly as the state grapples with reduced water supplies and aims to meet anticipated existing demands. Each proposed water transfer would be considered for approval annually as needed, allowing for adaptive management in response to changing conditions.
This initiative represents a key step towards addressing California’s water security issues, building upon an established practice of transferring water between regions to optimize available resources. As the state prepares for the EIS and the future water transfers, the Bureau of Reclamation encourages public participation and input to ensure that the final outcomes reflect the needs and concerns of those impacted by these water management strategies.
FAQ
What are the North-to-South Water Transfers?
The North-to-South Water Transfers refer to the proposal by the Bureau of Reclamation to facilitate the movement of water from sellers in Northern California to buyers in Southern California and the San Francisco Bay Area, beginning as early as 2028.
What is the purpose of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)?
The EIS is prepared to evaluate the potential environmental effects of the proposed water transfers, ensuring that all impacts are considered and addressed before implementation.
How can the public participate in the process?
The public can participate by attending the virtual public scoping meetings scheduled for mid-to-late September and by submitting written comments on the EIS content until October 3.
When will the transfer of water commence?
The water transfers are proposed to commence as soon as 2028, depending on the outcomes of the EIS and subsequent approvals.
Key Features of North-to-South Water Transfers Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Proposed Start Date | 2028 |
| Purpose of EIS | Evaluate potential effects of water transfers |
| Public Involvement | Virtual scoping meetings; comment period |
| Water Source | Upstream sellers in Northern California |
| Water Recipients | Buyers in Southern California and San Francisco Bay Area |
| Frequency of Transfers | Considered for annual approval as needed |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Action News Now: Water Transfer Meetings Set
- Maven’s Notebook: Reclamation Announces Public Scoping Meetings
- New York Times: California Delta Water
- CBS News: What’s Up with Water Transfers?
- Wikipedia: Water Management in California
Author: STAFF HERE CORONADO
The Coronado Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HERECoronado.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Coronado, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Coronado Island Film Festival, productions at Lamb’s Players Theatre, community workshops at John D. Spreckels Center, and iconic celebrations at Hotel del Coronado. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Coronado Chamber of Commerce and Visit Coronado, plus leading businesses in hospitality, dining, and tourism that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERESanDiego.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
