Feds Propose to Increase Dam Height in $360M Expansion of San Luis Reservior

Federal officials are proposing a $360 million expansion of one of California's largest reservoirs and a key water source for Central Valley farmers.

The Modesto Bee reports that the expansion proposal would increase the height of the 305-foot-high earthen dam at the San Luis Reservoir by 20 feet, creating another 130,000 acre feet of storage capacity.

The reservoir can currently hold more than 2 million acre feet of water.

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The expansion would also include seismic work on the dam and reservoir, which lies between Gilroy and Los Banos.

Chris White, general manager of the Central California Irrigation District, said the reservoir currently fills to capacity during wet years, losing excess water.

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The increased capacity would capture more water for storage, and help bolster supply in dry years.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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