Groundbreaking Ceremony Marks Expansion of Salton Sea Restoration Efforts in California

This significant expansion is bolstered by $175 million in federal funding recently made available by the Biden-Harris Administration,Photo byAlyssa BachesonUnsplash

SACRAMENTO — Today, state officials broke ground on an ambitious project aimed at expanding restoration work at the Salton Sea, a critical effort to improve conditions for wildlife and surrounding communities. Governor Gavin Newsom announced the 750-acre expansion of the Species Conservation Habitat Project, which is part of a broader initiative to enhance wildlife habitat, protect public health, and improve water quality in the area. The current project footprint now spans nearly 5,000 acres.

This significant expansion is bolstered by $175 million in federal funding recently made available by the Biden-Harris Administration, as part of a $250 million commitment from the Inflation Reduction Act. This federal investment complements more than $500 million in state funding secured to date.

"The Salton Sea, California’s largest inland water body, has experienced severe shrinkage in recent years due to reduced inflows," said Governor Newsom. "This has led to an exposed lakebed that releases dust particles, worsening air quality in the already burdened Imperial Valley. Our progress to date is a testament to the strong partnerships underpinning these efforts, and I look forward to the work ahead to deliver on our ecological, health, and economic goals for this important region."