The Californer - California Gets Million in Federal Funding to Accelerate Salton Sea Restoration

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SACRAMENTO ~ The Biden-Harris Administration has announced the first major federal investment for the State of California to accelerate the restoration of the Salton Sea. The $70 million in funding is part of a $250 million commitment from the Inflation Reduction Act, which complements the more than $500 million in state funding secured to date.

Governor Gavin Newsom highlighted this investment, which will be used to enhance wildlife habitat, protect public health and improve water quality at the lake. The reduced water levels and increased salinity have had a negative impact on habitat for wildlife, including birds travelling the Pacific flyway.

The $70 million will be used to expand the state's Species Conservation Habitat Project, creating a network of ponds and wetlands over 4,000 acres to provide fish and bird habitat and suppress dust emissions. This federal funding will enable the expansion of the project at the southern edge of the sea.

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An additional $2 million in federal funding was announced for the Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians to expand their technical capacity by funding positions entrusted with supporting Salton Sea project implementation.

California Natural Resources Agency leaders joined officials from the Department of Interior, Bureau of Reclamation, Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians and other members of Salton Sea Coordinating Committee in Imperial County yesterday to celebrate this historic funding.

The Biden-Harris Administration's commitment is expected to help improve conditions for wildlife and surrounding communities while also providing much needed relief from air pollution in Imperial Valley. Governor Newsom expressed his gratitude for this major investment that will continue momentum for restoring this key region.

Filed Under: Government, State

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