US EditionWhy a contentious project to raise California’s Shasta Dam could move forward under Trump
- A federal proposal aims to raise California's Shasta Dam by more than 18 feet to increase water delivery largely to farmers, stirring debate as of 2025.
- The project, long contested since the dam's 1945 completion, polarizes environmentalists concerned about salmon and tribal members fearing harm to sacred lands.
- Proponents argue the dam raise will better insulate cold water critical for salmon spawning and increase storage, while opponents cite significant ecosystem damage and cultural loss.
- The 2014 federal estimate values the project near $1.8 billion and foresees 51,300 acre-feet of additional water annually, but critics warn Trump-era executive orders seek to bypass state laws.
- The project faces uncertain progress despite political momentum, with tribal leaders hopeful it will fail and environmental risks, including threats to endangered Chinook salmon and cultural sites, remaining paramount.
13 Articles
13 Articles
Cal Matters
Why a contentious project to raise California’s Shasta Dam could move forward under Trump
The controversial Shasta Dam project would deliver more water to farmers but a tribe could lose sacred sites and endangered salmon could lose habitat.
CalMatters: Why a Contentious Project to Raise California’s Shasta Dam Could Move Forward Under Trump - The Silicon Valley Voice
Near the southern flank of Mount Shasta, springs and snowmelt converge to form the McCloud River. This Sacramento River tributary, held sacred by the Winnemem Wintu tribe, teemed with Chinook salmon before Shasta Dam, built in the 1940s, blocked their annual migrations. “The winter run was the main sustenance source for the Winnemem Wintu throughout history,” said tribal member Gary Mulcahy. “We consider them the grandfather of all salmon.” …
Why a contentious project to raise California’s Shasta Dam could move forward under Trump – Shasta Scout
An aerial view of Shasta Dam. A federal project to enlarge the dam seems to be gaining momentum. Photo by Sara Nevis, California Department of Water Resources This story was originally published by CalMatters. You can sign up for their newsletter here. Near the southern flank of Mount Shasta, springs and snowmelt converge to form the McCloud River. This Sacramento River tributary, held sacred by the Winnemem Wintu tribe, teemed with Chinook salm…
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