Friday Top of the Scroll: Tribes, environmentalists urge Newsom to oppose federal plan to raise Shasta Dam
A large coalition of Native American tribes, environmental groups and fishing organizations is asking California Gov. Gavin Newsom to oppose a federal plan to raise Shasta Dam, saying it would harm rivers, wildlife and tribal lands. In a letter sent to the governor, about 50 groups said the proposal, backed by the Trump administration and some Central Valley farming interests, would increase the height of Shasta Dam in the Northstate. Supporters say the project could store more water, but opponents argue the costs would be too high. The groups say raising the dam would flood parts of the McCloud River, which is protected under California law.
Other dam news:
- Daily Republic (Fairfield, Calif.): Huffman opposes ‘illegal’ Shasta Dam raising proposal
- Reuters: Can a new generation of hydropower dams save the energy transition?
- Tell the Dam Truth: News release: Reservoirs contribute to climate change, it’s time for California to track their emissions
