The Economy of the State Water Project Brochure and Report from DWR

The State Water Project (SWP) is among the world's most extensive water conveyance projects, featuring a 705-mile-long network of dams, reservoirs, hydroelectric facilities, pumping plants, and canals. The State Water Project plays a key role in the state’s economy. It supplies over 27 million Californians, a majority of the state’s population, along with commercial and industrial customers, including in the technology and manufacturing sectors, that account for a majority of the state’s economic activity. Project deliveries also supply water to the agricultural sector, supporting the cultivation of fruits, vegetables, and nuts, particularly in the Central Valley, the nation’s most productive agricultural region. This reliable water source not only ensures the livelihood of residents, businesses, and farmers but also contributes significantly to the state’s economy through technology, manufacturing, and agricultural exports.

This report consolidates publicly available data from the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) and other agencies to provide policymakers with a comprehensive overview of the economy that is supported by the State Water Project. The aim is to present this information in a concise format to facilitate wellinformed decision-making regarding the project. The information in this report covers patterns of water use in the State Water Project service area, the size of the urban and agricultural economies served by the State Water Project, the role of the State Water Project in serving underrepresented communities, and how the costs of State Water Project water deliveries compare to the costs of developing alternative water supplies.

The Economy of the State Water Project Brochure

The Economy of the State Water Project Report

Saving Our Water Is Saving Our Future

Californians have made great progress in recent years embracing wise water use as a daily habit. But our state's water future remains uncertain due to precipitation variability and a changing climate. It is more critical than ever that Californians work together to Save Our Water and make the world a better place for our children, grandchildren, and future generations.  Click here for a short informational video.  

A Quarter Century of CEQA Litigation Over the Monterey Agreement Comes to an End

The State Water Contractors announced that the California Supreme Court has denied a petition to review the decision in Central Delta Water Agency v. Department of Water Resources, 69 Cal. App. 5th 170 (2021).  Click here for the full release.  

Central Coast Water Authority files legal action against Santa Barbara County regarding management of the State Water Project

The Central Coast Water Authority (CCWA) and its eight member cities and water districts has filed a significant and unprecedented lawsuit in Santa Barbara Superior Court against the County of Santa Barbara regarding management of the State Water Project. Click here for the full release.