Once built, the Central Valley Project and the California State Water Project had unforeseen effects on the Sacramento–San Joaquin Delta, particularly on its historic salmon runs. The Delta is the hub of the state’s massive water distribution system, with much of the estuary’s water supply pumped to other locations. View this segment to learn how
- engineering has forever changed the Sacramento–San Joaquin Delta ecosystem.
- dams and other components of the water projects interrupt the life cycles of salmon and other fish.
- managing the effects of California’s water projects on ecosystems has cost billions of dollars.
Download the Viewing Guide for pre- and post-viewing discussion questions, activities, and additional resources to use with students.
