Several changes to an ocean desalination project proposed near Doheny State Beach to help generate drinking water for South Orange County were discussed Wednesday, Oct. 7, by the California Coastal Commission, with the modifications given the green light. Approved changes will move the slant wells, which will source water from subsurface intake wells buried beneath the ocean floor, to the north day use area of the state beach, away from the campgrounds as previously proposed. The project aims to tap seawater to lessen the dependence on imported water, with the South County Water District estimating the ability to make up to 5 million gallons per day of drinking water supply using a first-of-its-kind system in the state.

Other desalination news:

• Arizona Capitol Times (Phoenix): Arizona exploring long-term water importation options