Salton Sea Restoration

Salton Sea Restoration
December 1, 2020July 28, 2021
The Salton Sea—a lake located in Southern California—is the largest inland water body The Salton Sea—a lake located in Southern California—is the largest inland water body
in the state. The sea has few natural inlets of waterin the state. The sea has few natural inlets of water and, has no natural outlets, and no natural outlets, and it isis largely sustained by
Pervaze A. Sheikh
largely sustained by agricultural runoff from farmlands in the Imperial and agricultural runoff from farmlands in the Imperial and Coachel a
Specialist in Natural
Val eys. In recent decades, Coachella Valleys. In recent decades, Specialist in Natural agricultural runoff to the Salton Sea has diminished due to agricultural runoff to the Salton Sea has diminished due to
decreasing agricultural inflows , Resources Policy Resources Policy
changes in agricultural production, evaporation, and reduced precipitation, causing the evaporation, and reduced precipitation, causing the

sea to shrink and increase in salinity. High sea to shrink and increase in salinity. High salinity levels, combined with greater salinity levels, combined with greater
Charles V. Stern
concentrations of nutrients and toxinsconcentrations of nutrients and toxins , have altered the sea’s ecosystem and surrounding , have altered the sea’s ecosystem and surrounding
Specialist in Natural
habitat, making it difficult for most fish and bird species to habitat, making it difficult for most fish and bird species to Charles V. Stern Specialist in Natural survive. The Salton Sea’s survive. The Salton Sea’s
Resources Policy
diminishing size also has exposed lake bed (i.e., diminishing size also has exposed lake bed (i.e., playa) around the ) around the sea’s shoreline; this sea’s shoreline; this

playa playa Resources Policy contains toxic substances that contains toxic substances that may circulate in the air and impair local circulate in the air and impair local and regional air and regional air
quality.
quality.
Over time, federal, state, and private entities have developed proposals to manage and restore parts of the Salton Over time, federal, state, and private entities have developed proposals to manage and restore parts of the Salton
Sea. These efforts have common objectives, including controlling salinity, maintaining some of the sea’s habitat, Sea. These efforts have common objectives, including controlling salinity, maintaining some of the sea’s habitat,
and stabilizingand stabilizing sea water levels. The current and most prominent restoration initiative, the Salton Sea sea water levels. The current and most prominent restoration initiative, the Salton Sea
Management Program (SSMP), was Management Program (SSMP), was releasedreleas ed by the State of California in 2017. The SSMP’s first phase is being by the State of California in 2017. The SSMP’s first phase is being
implemented from 2018 to 2028. The initiative includes activities to convey water to the Salton Sea, reduce implemented from 2018 to 2028. The initiative includes activities to convey water to the Salton Sea, reduce
salinity in the sea, and restore approximately 30,000 acres of exposed playa. Phase 1 is estimated to cost $420 salinity in the sea, and restore approximately 30,000 acres of exposed playa. Phase 1 is estimated to cost $420
mil ion. million. Some federal agencies, such as the Bureau of ReclamationSome federal agencies, such as the Bureau of Reclamation (part of the Department of the Interior), are collaborating with the State of California , are collaborating with the State of California
to implement the SSMP. to implement the SSMP.
The federal role in restoring the Salton Sea is limited The federal role in restoring the Salton Sea is limited to a handful of projects that address issues on lands in and to a handful of projects that address issues on lands in and
around the around the sea sea that are managed by federal agenciesmanaged by federal agencies, including such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Service, the Bureau of Bureau of
Reclamation, Reclamation, the Bureau of Land Management, and Bureau of Land Management, and the Department of Defense. Unlike in areas such as Lake Tahoe, the Department of Defense. Unlike in areas such as Lake Tahoe, the
Everglades, and the Chesapeake Bay, Everglades, and the Chesapeake Bay, the federal government does not haveCongress has not authorized a comprehensive program to restore a comprehensive program to restore
the Salton Sea. the Salton Sea.
The scope and content of plans to restore the Salton Sea have generated debate The scope and content of plans to restore the Salton Sea have generated debate among stakeholders and within
Congress. Some stakeholders contend that the sea should not be restored; they argue that the area’s geological
history demonstrates a pattern of water bodies natural y shrinking, disappearing, and reforming over time, and
they assert that the Salton Sea is following a similar process. Other stakeholders argue that, and legislation to provide additional federal support for restoration has been introduced in the 117th Congress. Many stakeholders support restoring the Salton restoring the Salton
Sea is worthwhile Sea because of the sea’s ecological significance as a large wetland along the Pacific Flyway, because of the sea’s ecological significance as a large wetland along the Pacific Flyway, its role in role in
providing habitat for fish and wildlife, and providing habitat for fish and wildlife, and its economic importance to the region. Some economic importance to the region. Some stakeholders also notealso argue that that
restoration might mitigate the effects of increasing playa exposure, which is linked to regionalrestoration might mitigate the effects of increasing playa exposure, which is linked to regional airborne pollution. airborne pollution.
Congress may consider these and other Some observers contend the sea should not be restored; they argue that the area’s geological history demonstrates a pattern of water bodies naturally shrinking, disappearing, and reforming over time and assert that the Salton Sea is following a similar process. Congress may consider issues related to restoring the Salton Sea, including the nature and extent issues related to restoring the Salton Sea, including the nature and extent
of federal involvementof federal involvement in restoration; how (or if) the federal government should collaborate with the State of in restoration; how (or if) the federal government should collaborate with the State of
California in restoration efforts under the SSMP; and what (if any) federal responsibilities exist for mitigation of California in restoration efforts under the SSMP; and what (if any) federal responsibilities exist for mitigation of
airborne toxins that occur due to exposed playa on federal lands. airborne toxins that occur due to exposed playa on federal lands.

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Contents
Introduction ................................................................................................................... 1
Background on the Salton Sea ........................................................................................... 42
Health of the Salton Sea Ecosystem.............................................................................. 54
Inflows to the Salton Sea ............................................................................................ 64
Salinity .................................................................................................................... 76
Fish and Wildlife ....................................................................................................... 87
Dust and Airborne Pollution ........................................................................................ 87
The Salton Sea and the Colorado River............................................................................... 98
Quantification Settlement Agreement............................................................................ 98
The Salton Sea and Colorado River Drought Contingency Plans ....................................... 9 10
Restoration and Mitigation Plans ..................................................................................... 1110
Salton Sea Management Program ............................................................................... 1211
Status of SSMP Implementation................................................................................. 1413
Federal, State, and Local Roles in Restoration ................................................................... 1514
Role of Congress........................................................................................................... 1716
Issues for Congress ....................................................................................................... 1817
Level of Federal Involvement in Restoration................................................................ 1918
Collaboration with the State of California.................................................................... 1918
Potential Effects of Airborne Pollution from the Salton Sea ............................................ 20
Concluding Remarks 19 Conclusion................................................................................................................. 21.. 20

Figures
Figure 1. Map of Salton Sea and Vicinity in the State of California ......................................... 21
Figure 2. Salton Sea Elevation, 2003-2020 .......................................................................... 65
Figure 3. Historical and Projected Lake Bed (Playa) Exposure in the Salton Sea, 2002-
2020........................................................................................................................... 76
Figure 4. Proposed Areas to Implement Dust Suppression ................................................... 1312
Figure 5. Salton Sea Management Program (SSMP) Project Delivery Timeline ...................... 1514

Tables
Table 1. Salton Sea Restoration Plans ............................................................................... 1110
Table 2. Role of Selected Federal, State, and Local Agencies in Salton Sea Restoration ........... 1615

Appendixes
Appendix. Chronology of Events in the Salton Sea............................................................. 2221

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Contacts
Author Information ....................................................................................................... 2423

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Introduction
The Salton Sea—an inland The Salton Sea—an inland terminal lake in Southern California near the U.S.-Mexican border—is lake in Southern California near the U.S.-Mexican border—is
the State the state of California’s largest lake of California’s largest lake (Figure 1). The Salton Sea has higher salinity levels than the ocean and provides habitat for many species of plants and animals, including several endangered species. (see Figure 1). Throughout geologic history, water bodies
have formed, disappeared, and reformed in the Salton Basin. The most recent version of the sea
was created when a canal gate on the Colorado River broke in 1905, al owing water to flow into
the Salton Basin for two years and accumulate into the Salton Sea. After its formation, the sea
was sustained by agricultural runoff from farmlands in the Imperial and Coachel a Val eys.1 It
was developed for sport fishing by the state and, until the late 1960s, had a high diversity of birds
and wildlife.
The Salton Sea’s ecosystem has deteriorated steadily over time, due largely to declining water The Salton Sea’s ecosystem has deteriorated steadily over time, due largely to declining water
levels caused by evaporation, reduced precipitation, and levels caused by evaporation, reduced precipitation, and decreasingdecreased water inflows from agricultural irrigation. water inflows (including
reductions in agricultural flows from irrigation).2 Lower water levels have caused the sea to Lower water levels have caused the sea to
shrink, resulting in an increase in its salinity shrink, resulting in an increase in its salinity levels and the exposure of lake bed (and the exposure of lake bed (i.e., playa).).3
1 High salinity levels, combined with toxic High salinity levels, combined with toxic concentrations of substances in soils and runoff, have substances in soils and runoff, have
led to disease and widespread mortality of fish and birds. In addition, they have raised concerns
related to the effect of exposed playa on air quality due to aerosolized toxins in surrounding
areas.4
Federal involvement in the Salton Sea stems in part from the Bureau of Reclamation’s
(Reclamation’s) development of the Colorado River, which facilitates transfers of Colorado River
water to the Imperial Val ey for irrigation. After being diverted to irrigate agricultural lands, this
water drains into the Salton Sea. Lands in and around the sea have been federal y reserved as a
repository for drainage. Federal lands in and around the Salton Sea include the Sonny Bono
Salton Sea Wildlife Refuge, owned and operated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS);
submerged lands owned by Reclamation and the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM); and
various lands owned by the Department of Defense.5

1 Salton Sea Authority, Timeline of Salton Sea History, July 29, 2020, at http://saltonseaauthority.org/get-informed/
history/. Hereinafter, Salton Sea Authority, Tim eline.
2 Michael J. Cohen and Karen H. Hyun, HAZARD: The Future of the Salton Sea with No Restoration Project, Pacific
Institute, May 2006, at http://www.pacinst.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/report15.pdf.
3led to disease and widespread mortality of fish and birds, as wel as to concerns about the effect of exposed playa on air quality. Figure 1. Map of Salton Sea and Vicinity in the State of California Source: California Legislative Analyst’s Office, “Restoring the Salton Sea,” at http://www.lao.ca.gov/2008/rsrc/salton_sea/salton_sea_01-24-08.aspx. 1 D. A. Barnum et al., D. A. Barnum et al., State of the Salton Sea: A Science and Monitoring Meeting of Scientists for the Salton Sea , U.S. , U.S.
Geological Survey, Workshop Report, 2017, at https://pubs.usgs.gov/of/2017/1005/ofr20171005.pdfGeological Survey, Workshop Report, 2017, at https://pubs.usgs.gov/of/2017/1005/ofr20171005.pdf. Hereinafter (hereinafter, ,
Barnum et al., Barnum et al., State of the Salton Sea.). Playa is exposed seabed in and around the Salton Sea. Congressional Research Service 1 Playa is exposed seabed in and around the Salton Sea.
4 Rachel Ellers, The Salton Sea: A Status Update, California Legislative Analyst’s Office, August 29, 2018, at
https://lao.ca.gov/Publications/Report/3879.
5 For a more detailed accounting of land ownership in and around the Salton Sea, see U.S. Bureau of Reclamation,
“General Salton Sea and Vicinity Land Ownership and Management Map DRAFT ,” April 16, 2015, at
https://www.usbr.gov/lc/region/programs/SaltonSeaOwnershipMap.pdf.
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Figure 1. Map of Salton Sea and Vicinity in the State of California

Source: California Legislative Analyst’s Office, “Restoring the Salton Sea,” at http://www.lao.ca.gov/2008/rsrc/
salton_sea/salton_sea_01-24-08.aspx.
The Salton Sea—which has higher salinity levels than the ocean—provides permanent and
temporary habitat for many species of plants and animals, including several endangered species.
It also serves as a recreational area for the region.6 Interest in the Salton Sea’s ecological health
has increased since 2003, when the Quantification Settlement Agreement (QSA) was approved by
several water districts in California, the State of California, and the U.S. Department of the
Interior (DOI) and signed into California law.7 The QSA required California to gradual y reduce
its consumption of Colorado River water from 5.2 to 4.4 mil ion acre-feet (MAF) per year
through voluntary agriculture-to-urban water transfers and other water efficiency measures. The
implementation of this QSA has resulted in less water flowing into the Salton Sea, thus
accelerating the sea’s ecological decline. The water districts participating in the QSA agreed to

6 Barnum et al., State of the Salton Sea, p. 4.
7 Imperial Irrigation District (IID), Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, and Coachella Valley Water
District, The Quantification Settlem ent Agreem ent and Related Agreem ents and Docum ents, October 10, 2003, at
http://www.sdcwa.org/sites/default/files/files/Q SA_final.pdf.
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contribute funding toward the mitigation and restoration of the Salton Sea, as wel as to provide
200,000 acre-feet per year of Colorado River water through December 31, 2017.8
The Salton Sea’s fate is connected to drought response plans for the Colorado River. The Imperial
Irrigation District (IID), a major irrigation district in Southern California whose lands border the
Salton Sea, is the largest water rights holder on the Colorado River and a major advocate for
Salton Sea restoration. IID refused to approve the 2019 Drought Contingency Plan for the Lower
Colorado River Basin without assurances related to restoration of the Salton Sea.9 Although the
plan eventual y was approved and enacted without IID’s formal consent, future negotiations in
the Salton Basin that involve IID may be necessary in the coming years.10
Over time, several federal, state, and private entities have developed proposals to manage and
restore parts of the Salton Sea, with projected costs typical y in the bil ions of dollars. These
efforts have common objectives that include controlling salinity, maintaining some amount of
habitat, and stabilizing water levels. The current and most prominent effort, the Salton Sea
Management Program (SSMP), was released by the State of California’s Salton Sea Task Force in
2017.11 Phase 1 of the program began in 2018 and is scheduled to be implemented until 2028.
Phase 1 includes projects and activities that aim to convey water to the Salton Sea, reduce
salinity, and restore approximately 30,000 acres of exposed lake bed. Phase 1 is estimated to cost
$420 mil ion, with long-term costs stil unknown. Absent the full implementation of a
comprehensive plan to restore the Salton Sea, one study estimated the long-term social and
economic costs to society of a deteriorating sea could approach $29 bil ion.12
In addition to the Salton Sea’s connection to water al ocation negotiations in the Colorado River
Basin, congressional concern for restoring the sea stems in part from other factors. Areas of
congressional interest may include the management of federal lands in the area,Salton Sea Restoration Over time, federal, state, and private entities have developed proposals to manage and restore parts of the Salton Sea, with projected costs typical y in the bil ions of dollars. These efforts have common objectives that include controlling salinity, maintaining some amount of wildlife habitat, and stabilizing water levels. The current and most prominent effort to restore the Salton Sea, the Salton Sea Management Program (SSMP), was released by the State of California’s Salton Sea Task Force in 2017.2 Phase 1 of the program began in 2018 and is scheduled to be implemented until 2028 at a cost of $420 mil ion. Absent the full implementation of a comprehensive Salton Sea restoration plan, one study estimated the long-term social and economic costs to society of a deteriorating sea could approach $29 bil ion.3 Federal involvement in the Salton Sea stems in part from the Bureau of Reclamation’s development of the Colorado River, which facilitates transfers of Colorado River water to the nearby Imperial and Coachel a Val eys for irrigation. Due to the federal government’s role in developing the Colorado River Basin, as wel as the multiple federal landowners in the area,4 some stakeholders and members of Congress have proposed increasing the federal role in restoration and mitigation efforts in the Salton Sea and have introduced legislation that would facilitate this change. In the 117th Congress, H.R. 3877, the Salton Sea Projects Improvement Act, would authorize $250 mil ion for Reclamation to implement mitigation and restoration projects in and around the Salton Sea, in partnership with multiple state, local, and nonprofit entities. Another bil , H.R. 491, would authorize a restoration program for the New River (a tributary flowing into the Salton Sea). This report provides background on the Salton Sea’s history, as wel as its current status, efforts to restore parts of the sea and mitigate the effects of its decline, and the roles of the State of California and the federal government in facilitating these efforts. Background on the Salton Sea The Salton Basin, an area below sea level where the Salton Sea is located, has supported many lakes and water bodies throughout its geological history. The last of these water bodies was Lake Cahuil a, a water body larger than the Salton Sea within the basin, which formed from sedimentation in the Colorado River Delta. The lake existed during the Holocene epoch (the last 11,700 years), periodical y drying and refil ing.5 Beginning in 1901, irrigation canals were dug to divert a portion of the Colorado River to irrigate agricultural fields in the Imperial Val ey, which 2 the Salton Sea’s
value as habitat for federal and state-listed endangered species and for migrating and resident bird
species, the use of the sea as a reservoir for agricultural drainage and recreation, and air quality
issues of exposed playa, among others.13 Some Members of Congress have expressed concerns
over air pollution from exposed lake beds as the Salton Sea’s shorelines recede.14
There is no consensus regarding whether to restore the Salton Sea. Some contend the sea should
not be restored.15 They argue that the area’s geological history demonstrates a pattern of water
bodies natural y shrinking, disappearing, and then reforming over time and predict the Salton Sea

8 An acre-foot is enough water to cover one acre with a foot of water, or 271,330 gallons.
9 IID, “IID Board President Erik Ortega Statement on DCP Federal Legislation,” press release, April 2, 2019, at
https://www.iid.com/Home/Components/News/News/681/30?npage=2&arch=1.
10 T he Drought Contingency Plans for the Colorado River were authorized under P.L. 116-14.
11 State of California Department of Water Resources, California Natural Resources Agency, and California State of California Department of Water Resources, California Natural Resources Agency, and California
Department of Fish and Wildlife,Department of Fish and Wildlife, Salton Sea Managem ent Program , 2017. Hereinafter, 2017 SSMP. 2017. Hereinafter, 2017 SSMP.
123 Michael J. Cohen, Michael J. Cohen, Hazard’s Toll: The Costs of Inaction at the Salton Sea,, Pacific Institute, September 2014, p. vi, at Pacific Institute, September 2014, p. vi, at
https://pacinst.org/publication/hazards-toll/. Hereinafter “ https://pacinst.org/publication/hazards-toll/. Hereinafter “ Hazard’s Toll.” Costs are estimated to come from public .” Costs are estimated to come from public
health issues, loss in recreation and ecological values, loss in property values, and potentially losses in agricultural health issues, loss in recreation and ecological values, loss in property values, and potentially losses in agricultural
productivity. productivity.
13 Letter from Representative Raul Ruiz to Representative Raul M. Grijalva and Representative Jared Huffman,
September 18, 2019.
14 U.S. Congress, House Committee on Natural Resources, Subcommittee on Water, Oceans, and Wildlife, Efforts to
Restore the Salton Sea, hearing, 116th Cong., 2nd sess., September 24, 2020. Hereinafter, Congressional Hearing,
Restore Salton Sea, 2020.
15 Michelle Nijhunis, “Accidental Refuge: Should We Save the Salton Sea?” High Country News, June 19, 2000, at
http://www.hcn.org/issues/181/5865/print_view.
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wil follow a similar process. These stakeholders assert that countering this natural process would
be expensive and ultimately not worth the cost.16 Some others are not in favor of restoration
because they argue that the present-day Salton Sea was artificial y created and should have a low
priority for restoration.17 These opponents contend that restoration funds should instead be used
to restore other natural wetlands in California, such as the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers’
Delta confluence with San Francisco Bay, or to manage forests to reduce wildfires.18 By contrast,
some stakeholders note that the value of restoring the Salton Sea lies in the sea’s ecological
significance as a large wetland along the Pacific Flyway and a habitat for fish and wildlife, as
wel as its potential to stimulate economic development in the region through tourism, recreation,
and energy development.19
This report provides background on the Salton Sea and its relation to water resource issues in the
Colorado River Basin. The report also describes the Salton Sea’s current status, efforts to restore
parts of the sea and mitigate the effects of its decline, and the roles of the State of California and
the federal government in facilitating these efforts.
Background on the Salton Sea
The Salton Basin, an area below sea level where4 Federal lands in and around the Salton Sea include the Sonny Bono Salton Sea Wildlife Refuge, owned and operated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FW S); submerged lands owned by Reclamation and the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM); and various lands owned by the Department of Defense. For a more detailed accounting of land ownership in and around the Salton Sea, see U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, “Gen eral Salton Sea and Vicinity Land Ownership and Management Map DRAFT ,” April 16, 2015, at https://www.usbr.gov/lc/region/programs/SaltonSeaOwnershipMap.pdf. 5 T he last major recorded flood of Colorado River water forming a lake in the basin was in 1891, forming a 100,000 -acre lake. For more information, see Salton Sea Authority, “Timeline of Salton Sea History,” at https://saltonsea.com/get-informed/history/ (hereinafter, Salton Sea Authority, “ Timeline”). Congressional Research Service 2 Salton Sea Restoration is within the Salton Basin.6 In 1905, water entered the basin (which was mostly dry at the time) through a broken canal. This inflow of Colorado River water into the area that is now the Salton the Salton Sea lasted almost two years. The sea formed within a closed basin with no outlets (i.e., a terminal lake), which is its present condition. Although the 1905 event has been widely noted in descriptions of the sea’s origins, some scientists note that the evidence of similar bodies of water and other floods prior to 1905 means Salton Sea’s formation was not an unnatural event.7Sea is located, has supported many
lakes and water bodies throughout its geological history. The last of these water bodies was Lake
Cahuil a, a water body larger than the Salton Sea, within the basin that formed from
sedimentation in the Colorado River Delta. The lake existed during the Holocene epoch,
periodical y drying and refil ing. It last dried up approximately 400 years ago.20 Beginning in
1901, irrigation canals were dug to divert a portion of the Colorado River to irrigate agricultural
fields in the Imperial Val ey, which is within the Salton Basin.21 In 1905, water broke through a
canal headgate, causing a two-year uncontrolled release of Colorado River water from the canal
into the area that is now the Salton Sea. The sea formed within a closed basin with no outlets (i.e.,
a terminal lake), which is its present condition.
Subsequent development of the Colorado River by the federal government (including Subsequent development of the Colorado River by the federal government (including
construction of the Hoover Dam and the Al -American Canal) provided additional support for construction of the Hoover Dam and the Al -American Canal) provided additional support for
transfers of Colorado River water to the Imperial Val ey. After being diverted to irrigate transfers of Colorado River water to the Imperial Val ey. After being diverted to irrigate
agricultural lands in the Imperial agricultural lands in the Imperial Val eyValley, this water drained into the Salton Sea and replenished , this water drained into the Salton Sea and replenished
freshwater lost to evaporation. In the 1920s, President Coolidge issued public water and reserve freshwater lost to evaporation. In the 1920s, President Coolidge issued public water and reserve
orders for the federal withdrawal of lands related to the Salton Sea, leading to an increasing orders for the federal withdrawal of lands related to the Salton Sea, leading to an increasing
federal land ownership stake in the area.federal land ownership stake in the area.228 These lands were designated as a repository for These lands were designated as a repository for

16 For example, see Statement of Hon. T om McClintock, in U.S. Congress, House Committee on Natural Resources,
Subcommittee on Water, Oceans, and Wildlife, Efforts to Restore the Salton Sea, 116th Cong., 2nd sess., September 24,
2020. Hereinafter, Statement of Hon. T om McClintock.
17 Statement of Hon. T om McClintock.
18 Statement of Hon. T om McClintock.
19 Statement of Hon. Jared Huffman, in U.S. Congress, House Committee on Natural Resources, Subcommittee on
Water, Oceans, and Wildlife, Efforts to Restore the Salton Sea, 116th Cong., 2nd sess., September 24, 2020. Hereinafter,
Statement of Hon. Jared Huffman.
20 Salton Sea Authority, Timeline.
21 Robert H. Boyle, “Life—or Death—for the Salton Sea?,” Smithsonian (June 1996), pp. 87-93.
22 Salton Sea Authority, Timeline.
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agricultural, subsurface, and surface water drainage. As a result, lands in and around the sea are agricultural, subsurface, and surface water drainage. As a result, lands in and around the sea are
managed by a patchwork of federal, state, and local owners. managed by a patchwork of federal, state, and local owners.
The Salton Sea was a popular destination for sport fishing and tourism as late as the 1950s, but a The Salton Sea was a popular destination for sport fishing and tourism as late as the 1950s, but a
combination of factors led to a gradual decline of these activities. Changes to the sea, including combination of factors led to a gradual decline of these activities. Changes to the sea, including
the flooding of some resort areas and wildlife habitat, bird and fish die-offs, and health threats of the flooding of some resort areas and wildlife habitat, bird and fish die-offs, and health threats of
untreated water, led to a decline in recreation and development around the Salton Sea in the untreated water, led to a decline in recreation and development around the Salton Sea in the
1960s. Since then, water levels in the sea have 1960s. Since then, water levels in the sea have declined steadilyfluctuated but have decreased overal , exposing contaminated playa , exposing contaminated playa
and leading to high salinity levels in the water.and leading to high salinity levels in the water.9 The Salton Sea also contains high levels of The Salton Sea also contains high levels of
nutrients, which can lead to large-scale algal bloomsnutrients, which can lead to large-scale algal blooms, and toxic levels of and toxic levels of selenium and
dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE).23 dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE), a pesticide by-product.10 Some scientists assert that Some scientists assert that these toxins, coupled with these toxins, coupled with
high salinity, are likely to further degrade water quality.high salinity, are likely to further degrade water quality.2411
The Salton Sea provides habitat, including open water, estuaries, salt marshes, and The Salton Sea provides habitat, including open water, estuaries, salt marshes, and riparian
river corridors, for various fish and wildlife species. The most ubiquitous fish species in the sea today corridors, for various fish and wildlife species. The most ubiquitous fish species in the sea today
is the tilapia (is the tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus), which was introduced to the area in the 1960s to ), which was introduced to the area in the 1960s to
control weeds in agricultural ponds. In addition, the Salton Sea is home to the endangered desert control weeds in agricultural ponds. In addition, the Salton Sea is home to the endangered desert
pupfish (pupfish (Cyprinodon macularius), the only native fish species in the sea. Few fish can survive in ), the only native fish species in the sea. Few fish can survive in
the sea’s current hypersaline waters. According to scientists, deteriorating water quality adversely the sea’s current hypersaline waters. According to scientists, deteriorating water quality adversely
affects affects invertebrate life in the sea, such as pileworms and barnacles, two key components of the invertebrate life in the sea, such as pileworms and barnacles, two key components of the
sea’s food web.sea’s food web.2512 The Salton Sea also is an important stop for thousands of birds on the Pacific The Salton Sea also is an important stop for thousands of birds on the Pacific
Flyway, Flyway, many of which rely on its fish and invertebrates for sustenance during their migration.many of which rely on its fish and invertebrates for sustenance during their migration.2613 6 Robert H. Boyle, “Life—or Death—for the Salton Sea?,” Smithsonian (June 1996), pp. 87-93. 7 Jenny E. Ross, “Formation of California’s Salton Sea in 1905 -1907 Was Not ‘Accidental,’” 2020 Desert Symposium , 2020, pp. 103-116. 8 Salton Sea Authority, “ T imeline.” 9 For example, from 1988 to 2007, water levels in the Salton Sea fluctuated between -227 feet to -228 feet below sea level, but then declined to -237 feet below sea level in 2020. See USGS Annual Water Statistics for California at https://waterdata.usgs.gov/ca/nwis/annual?referred_module=sw&search_site_no=10254005&format=sites_selection_links. 10 DDE is a chemical compound formed by the breakdown of DDT (Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane), a pesticide banned by the Environmental Protection Agency in 1972. 11 Barnum et al., State of the Salton Sea, p. 8. 12 Barnum et al., State of the Salton Sea, p. 3. 13 Barnum et al., State of the Salton Sea. Congressional Research Service 3 link to page 9 link to page 10 Salton Sea Restoration
Federal lands in and around the Salton Sea are managed by the Department of Defense (DOD) Federal lands in and around the Salton Sea are managed by the Department of Defense (DOD)
and several agencies within and several agencies within DOIthe Department of the Interior (DOI). These lands include drainage areas and refuges for fish and . These lands include drainage areas and refuges for fish and
wildlife.wildlife. For example, the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge was established in For example, the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge was established in
1930 to provide wintering habitat for waterfowl and migratory birds.1930 to provide wintering habitat for waterfowl and migratory birds.2714 It supports more than 400 It supports more than 400
species of resident and migratory birds, of which more than 50 are species of special status species of resident and migratory birds, of which more than 50 are species of special status
(including 3 listed under the Endangered Species Act).(including 3 listed under the Endangered Species Act).2815 Reclamation Reclamation and BLMand BLM manage manage
submerged lands and lands around the sea. Some of those lands border the sea’s edges and submerged lands and lands around the sea. Some of those lands border the sea’s edges and
increasingly are being exposed due to receding water levels. The playa in and around the sea is increasingly are being exposed due to receding water levels. The playa in and around the sea is
covered with fine sediments, some of which contain toxic covered with fine sediments, some of which contain toxic levels of substances, such as selenium and substances, such as selenium and
arsenic, deposited both natural y and by agricultural runoff. When the exposed lake beds dry, arsenic, deposited both natural y and by agricultural runoff. When the exposed lake beds dry,
winds can blow up and transport dust, thereby impairing local and winds can blow up and transport dust, thereby impairing local and regional air quality. regional air quality.
Health ofInterest in the Salton Sea’s ecological health has increased since 2003, when the Quantification Settlement Agreement (QSA) was approved by several water districts in California, the State of California, and DOI and signed into California law. The QSA required California to gradual y reduce its consumption of Colorado River water from 5.2 mil ion to 4.4 mil ion acre-feet (MAF) per year, in accordance with the Law of the River. This reduction was to be accomplished through voluntary agriculture-to-urban water transfers and other water efficiency measures expected to further reduce inflows into the Salton Sea Ecosystem
The ecosystem properties of the Salton Sea are largely determined by its water level, chemical
concentrations (including salinity), and the balance between the rates of evaporation and water
inflow.

23 A chemical compound formed by the breakdown of DDT .
24 Barnum et al., State of the Salton Sea, p. 8.
25 Barnum et al., State of the Salton Sea, p. 3.
26 Barnum et al., State of the Salton Sea.
27 T his refuge was established in 1930 as the Salton Sea Wildlife Refuge and was renamed the Sonny Bono Salton Sea
National Wildlife Refuge in 1998.
28 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Bird Life, Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge Complex, at
https://www.fws.gov/saltonsea/Bird%20List.html.
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. The water districts participating in the QSA agreed to contribute funding and flows to mitigate the agreement’s effects on the Salton Sea. Most of these measures were intended to be temporary actions on a path to long-term restoration and mitigation, and many of them have since ended. Health of the Salton Sea Ecosystem The ecosystem properties of the Salton Sea are largely determined by its water level, chemical concentrations (including salinity), and the balance between the rates of evaporation and water inflow.
Inflows to the Salton Sea
Historical y, nearly 75% of the water flowing into the Salton Sea came from agricultural runoff Historical y, nearly 75% of the water flowing into the Salton Sea came from agricultural runoff
originating in California’s Imperial and Coachel a Val eys; the other 25% came from rain and originating in California’s Imperial and Coachel a Val eys; the other 25% came from rain and
other surface inflows.other surface inflows.29 Agricultural inflows into the sea have declined steadily as water levels
have dropped since 2003, due in part to the QSA and in part to evaporation 16 Water levels in the sea began to decline due to increasing efficiencies with irrigation water and decreasing inflows from Mexico; these levels dropped further after 2003 due to the QSA and evaporation, among other things. There has been an approximately 10-foot reduction in water surface elevation since 2003 (Figure 2). Declining . Declining
water levels have increased water levels have increased playa exposure, which was nearing an estimated 25,000 acres at the playa exposure, which was nearing an estimated 25,000 acres at the
end of 2019end of 2019 (Figure 3).17 14 T his refuge was established in 1930 as the Salton Sea Wildlife Refuge and was renamed the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge in 1998. 15 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Bird Life, Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge Complex, at https://www.fws.gov/saltonsea/Bird%20List.html. 16(Figure 3).30
Figure 2. Salton Sea Elevation, 2003-2020

Source: U.S. Geological Survey, National Water Information System: Web Interface, at
https://waterdata.usgs.gov/ca/nwis/uv?site_no=10254005.
Notes: There has been an approximately 10-foot reduction in water surface elevation since 2003. NGVD =
National Geodetic Vertical Datum (see https://www.ngs.noaa.gov/datums/vertical/national-geodetic-vertical-
datum-1929.shtml).
Total average annual inflow to the Salton Sea between 1950 and 2015 was estimated at
approximately 1.3 MAF;31 average annual inflow prior to the 2003 QSA implementation was

29 Michael Cohen, Jason Morrison, and Edward Glenn, Michael Cohen, Jason Morrison, and Edward Glenn, Haven or Hazard: The Ecology and Future of the Salton Sea, ,
Pacific Institute for Studies in Development, Environment, and Security, February 1999, p. 10.Pacific Institute for Studies in Development, Environment, and Security, February 1999, p. 10.
30 17 California Natural Resources Agency, California Natural Resources Agency, 2020 Annual Report on the Salton Sea Management Program, February 2020, February 2020,
p. 31, at http://saltonsea.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/2020-Annual-Report_2-21-20-v3.pdf. Hereinafter, p. 31, at http://saltonsea.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/2020-Annual-Report_2-21-20-v3.pdf. Hereinafter, 2020
Salton Sea Managem ent Program Annual Report. .
31 CH2M Hill, Salton Sea Hydrological Modeling and Results, T echnical Report Prepared for Imperial Irrigation
District, October 2018, p. 2-2, at https://www.iid.com/home/showdocument?id=17299. Hereinafter, CH2M Hill, Salton
Sea Hydrological Modeling.
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estimated at 1.2-1.3 MAF,32 and annual inflows since QSA implementation have been as low as
1.0 MAF.33Congressional Research Service 4 Salton Sea Restoration Figure 2. Salton Sea Elevation, 2003-2020 Source: U.S. Geological Survey, National Water Information System: Web Interface, at https://waterdata.usgs.gov/ca/nwis/uv?site_no=10254005. Notes: NGVD = National Geodetic Vertical Datum (see https://www.ngs.noaa.gov/datums/vertical/national-geodetic-vertical-datum-1929.shtml). Total average annual inflow to the Salton Sea between 1950 and 2015 was estimated at approximately 1.3 MAF;18 average annual inflow prior to the 2003 QSA implementation was estimated at 1.2-1.3 MAF,19 and annual inflows since QSA implementation have been as low as 1.0 MAF.20 From 2014 to 2019, inflows declined minimal y and averaged 1.07 MAF, despite the From 2014 to 2019, inflows declined minimal y and averaged 1.07 MAF, despite the
end of mitigation flows under the QSA.end of mitigation flows under the QSA.3421 Some project that the total annual average inflow to the Some project that the total annual average inflow to the
Salton Sea from 2016 to 2077 wil drop to a level of approximately 732,000 acre-feet per year if Salton Sea from 2016 to 2077 wil drop to a level of approximately 732,000 acre-feet per year if
there is no restoration.there is no restoration.3522 This drop is estimated to result in approximately 100,000 acres of This drop is estimated to result in approximately 100,000 acres of
exposed playa and likely would increase salinity, raise concentrations of toxins, and exacerbate exposed playa and likely would increase salinity, raise concentrations of toxins, and exacerbate
effects on fish and wildlife. effects on fish and wildlife.3623 18 CH2M Hill, Salton Sea Hydrological Modeling and Results, T echnical Report Prepared for Imperial Irrigation District, October 2018, p. 2-2, at https://www.iid.com/home/showdocument?id=17299. Hereinafter, CH2M Hill, Salton Sea Hydrological Modeling. 19 IID, “Salton Sea,” at https://www.iid.com/water/salton-sea. 20 CH2M Hill, Salton Sea Hydrological Modeling, p. 2-2. 21 Anticipating a shortage of flows to the Salton Sea due to the Quantification Settlement Agreement (QSA), the State Water Resources Control Board delayed the shortage for 15 years (2002-2017) by requiring mitigation flows to the Salton Sea. 22 CH2M Hill, Salton Sea Hydrological Modeling, p. 5-3. 23 CH2M Hill, Salton Sea Hydrological Modeling, Section 6.0, pp. 6-1 to 6-10. Congressional Research Service 5 Salton Sea Restoration
Figure 3. Historical and Projected Lake Bed (Playa) Exposure in the Salton Sea,
2002-2020

Source: California Natural Resources Agency California Natural Resources Agency 2020 Annual Report on the Salton Sea Management Program,
February 2020. February 2020.
Salinity
Lower inflows into the Salton Sea Lower inflows into the Salton Sea are directly related directly lead to increasing salinity levels. High salinity to increasing salinity levels. High salinity
combines with extreme eutrophication combines with extreme eutrophication to cause(excessive richness of nutrients), which causes fish kil s in fish kil s in the sea by depleting oxygen levels in water (anoxia).24the sea. Eutrophication can result in
anoxic conditions, leading to fish death.37 High salinity also has caused massive die-offs of birds
who feed on fish in the Salton Sea. In 1950, the sea reached salinity levels similar to In 1950, the sea reached salinity levels similar to those of the Pacific the Pacific
Ocean. At Ocean. At thisthat time, the California Department of Fish and Game time, the California Department of Fish and Game began transferring saltwater fish began transferring saltwater fish
species to the sea. Salinity has increased in the sea ever since.

32 IID, “Salton Sea,” at https://www.iid.com/water/salton-sea.
33 CH2M Hill, Salton Sea Hydrological Modeling, p. 2-2.
34 Anticipating a shortage of flows to the Salton Sea due to the Quantification Settlement Agreement (QSA), the State
Water Resources Control Board delayed the shortage for 15 years (2002 -2017) by requiring mitigation flows to the
Salton Sea.
35 CH2M Hill, Salton Sea Hydrological Modeling, p. 5-3.
36 CH2M Hill, Salton Sea Hydrological Modeling, Section 6.0, p. 6-1 to 6-10.
37 Anoxic waters are waters with a total depletion of oxygen, an extreme version of hypoxia. Fishspecies to the sea. Salinity has increased in the sea ever since. Salinity in the Salton Sea increased from approximately 45,600 mil igrams/liter (mg/l) in 2003 to 69,000 mg/l in 2019.25 These salinity levels are too high to support the sea’s former diversity of fish, according to scientists.26 If there is no restoration and trends in salinity continue, some studies suggest salinity in the Salton Sea could approximately double from 2018 levels by 2027 and triple by 2033.27 24Fish need oxygenated need oxygenated
waters to survive; thus, waters to survive; thus, anoxic conditions often aredepletion of oxygen is associated with large fish kills, associated with large fish kills, which are sometimes observed sometimes observed i nin the Salton the Salton
Sea. See B. Marti-Cardona et al., “ Relating Fish Kills to Upwelling and Wind Patterns in the Salton Sea,” in Sea. See B. Marti-Cardona et al., “ Relating Fish Kills to Upwelling and Wind Patterns in the Salton Sea,” in
Developm entsDevelopments in Hydrobiology: The Salton Sea Centennial Sym posium Symposium Developments in Hydrobiology , ed. Stuart , ed. Stuart
Hurlbert, vol. 201 (2008), pp. 85Hurlbert, vol. 201 (2008), pp. 85 -95. 25 2020 Salton Sea Management Program Annual Report, p. 30. By comparison, average salinity of ocean water is approximately 35,000 mg/l. 26 T estimony of Wade Crowfoot, California Secretary for Natural Resources, in U.S. Congress, House Committee on Natural Resources, Subcommittee on Water, Oceans, and Wildlife, Efforts to Restore the Salton Sea, 116th Cong., 2nd sess., September 24, 2020. Hereinafter, T estimony of Wade Crowfoot . 27 CH2M Hill, Salton Sea Hydrological Modeling, p. 6-7. Congressional Research Service 6 Salton Sea Restoration -95.
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Salinity in the Salton Sea increased from approximately 45,600 mil igrams/liter (mg/l) in 2003 to
69,000 mg/l in 2019.38 These salinity levels are too high to support the sea’s former diversity of
fish, according to scientists.39 If there is no restoration and trends in salinity continue, some
studies suggest salinity in the Salton Sea could approximately double from 2018 by 2027 and
triple by 2033.40
Fish and Wildlife
An increase in salinity has led to the loss of most fisheries in the Salton Sea. The sea’s fish An increase in salinity has led to the loss of most fisheries in the Salton Sea. The sea’s fish
species are declining due to hypersaline conditions; the endangered desert pupfish is in decline in species are declining due to hypersaline conditions; the endangered desert pupfish is in decline in
many parts of the sea, and scientists expect that increasing salinity eventual y wil cause the many parts of the sea, and scientists expect that increasing salinity eventual y wil cause the
species to disappearspecies to disappear.41 from the Salton Sea.28 The status of tilapia—the Salton Sea’s other major fish species—is less The status of tilapia—the Salton Sea’s other major fish species—is less
clear, as these fish clear, as these fish are more tolerant ofhave adapted to high salinity conditions. high salinity conditions.4229 However, some scientists argue However, some scientists argue
that tilapiathat tilapia might be reaching a tipping point due to hypersaline conditions and might be reaching a tipping point due to hypersaline conditions and that a massive die-that a massive die-
off might be imminent.off might be imminent.4330 The numbers of fish-eating birds nesting in the Salton Sea area have The numbers of fish-eating birds nesting in the Salton Sea area have
fal en to record lows, but the population of some other birds that feed on invertebrates appears to fal en to record lows, but the population of some other birds that feed on invertebrates appears to
have increased in recent years.have increased in recent years.4431 Some stakeholders argue that the ongoing loss of water into the Some stakeholders argue that the ongoing loss of water into the
sea wil continue to degrade the ecosystem, habitat, and species by increasing salinity levels, sea wil continue to degrade the ecosystem, habitat, and species by increasing salinity levels,
producing higher concentrations of nutrients that lead to eutrophication producing higher concentrations of nutrients that lead to eutrophication and anoxia, and elevatingand anoxia, and elevating
water temperatures.water temperatures.4532
Dust and Airborne Pollution
Dust from exposed playa around the Salton Sea contains toxic substances that affect human Dust from exposed playa around the Salton Sea contains toxic substances that affect human
health. In October 2019, the Imperial County Board of Supervisors declared a local state of health. In October 2019, the Imperial County Board of Supervisors declared a local state of
emergency at the Salton Sea due to harmful dust and air pollution originating from the seaemergency at the Salton Sea due to harmful dust and air pollution originating from the sea and
, which was impairing air quality.impairing air quality.46 The country also has 33 The county also issued notices of violations of county regulations in issued notices of violations of county regulations in
2020 to state agencies, federal agencies, and 2020 to state agencies, federal agencies, and IIDthe Imperial Irrigation District (IID) for not adequately controlling dust during the for not adequately controlling dust during the
construction of the Red Hil Bay construction of the Red Hil Bay restoration projectRestoration Project and and for not adequately implementingfor not adequately implementing dust dust
control activities on exposed playa around portions of the control activities on exposed playa around portions of the Salton Sea.Salton Sea.4734
Some scientists support the premise that dust from exposed playa in the sea is the cause of Some scientists support the premise that dust from exposed playa in the sea is the cause of
respiratory respiratory issuesil ness in local communities. For example, a study directly connected declining water in local communities. For example, a study directly connected declining water

38 2020 Salton Sea Management Program Annual Report, p. 30. By comparison, average salinity of ocean water is
approximately 35,000 mg/l.
39 T estimony of Wade Crowfoot, California Secretary for Natural Resources, in U.S. Congress, House Committee o n
Natural Resources, Subcommittee on Water, Oceans, and Wildlife, Efforts to Restore the Salton Sea, 116th Cong., 2nd
sess., September 24, 2020. Hereinafter, T estimony of Wade Crowfoot .
40 CH2M Hill, Salton Sea Hydrological Modeling, p. 6-7.
41 2020 Salton Sea Management Program Annual Report, p. 28.
42 2020 Salton Sea Management Program Annual Report, p. 28.
43levels in the Salton Sea to an increase in particulate matter and respiratory il nesses in surrounding communities.35 At the same time, some scientists assert that it is difficult to assess how increasing playa exposure is affecting air quality, because monitoring data vary due to wind patterns and the location of monitoring sites relative to the sea. These scientists contend that air pollution in the region also may be caused by stirring up the surrounding desert and by other 28 2020 Salton Sea Management Program Annual Report, p. 28. 29 2020 Salton Sea Management Program Annual Report, p. 28. 30 Salton Sea Authority, Salton Sea Authority, Frequently Asked Questions, 2020, at https://saltonseaauthority.org/about/faq/. , 2020, at https://saltonseaauthority.org/about/faq/.
4431 2020 Salton Sea Management Program Annual Report, pp. 28-29. , pp. 28-29.
4532 T estimony of Wade Crowfoot T estimony of Wade Crowfoot .
4633 R. E. Kelley, Chairman of the Board of Supervisors, R. E. Kelley, Chairman of the Board of Supervisors, County of Imperial, Proclamation of Local Emergency for Air
Pollution at the Salton Sea, Imperial County Board of Supervisors, October 22, 2019, at https://imperial.granicus.com/, Imperial County Board of Supervisors, October 22, 2019, at https://imperial.granicus.com/
MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=1744&meta_id=251728. MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=1744&meta_id=251728.
4734 For example, see K. Kirby, “ICAPCD Issues Notice of Violation to Protect Public Health,” For example, see K. Kirby, “ICAPCD Issues Notice of Violation to Protect Public Health,” The Desert Review, ,
October 14, 2020. October 14, 2020.
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levels in the Salton Sea to an increase in particulate matter and respiratory il nesses in
surrounding communities.48 At the same time, some scientists assert that it is difficult to assess
how increasing playa exposure is impacting air quality, as monitoring data vary due to wind
patterns and the location of monitoring sites relative to the sea. These scientists contend that air
pollution in the region also can be caused by stirring up the surrounding desert and by other
natural sources, and they recommend more studies.49 According to the California Air Resources
35 B. A. Jones and J. Fleck, “Shrinking Lakes, Air Pollution, and Human Health: Evidence from California’s Salton Sea,” Science of the Total Environment, vol. 712 (April 10, 2020). T he study’s model indicated that each 1-foot drop in lake elevation between 2008 and 2014 was associated with an increase in particulate matter that led to an increase in respiratory mortality rates in surrounding communities of approximately 1 -15 people per year and health costs of $13.2 million-$147.3 million per year. Congressional Research Service 7 Salton Sea Restoration natural sources; they recommend more studies.36 According to the California Air Resources Board, migrating sand on the western shore of the Salton Sea is causing the highest particulate Board, migrating sand on the western shore of the Salton Sea is causing the highest particulate
matter readings and may increase total lake bed emissions unless the sand is stabilized. matter readings and may increase total lake bed emissions unless the sand is stabilized.5037
The Salton Sea and the Colorado River
The restoration of the Salton Sea is The restoration of the Salton Sea is connectedrelated to agreements that regulate the use and distribution to agreements that regulate the use and distribution
of water from the Colorado Riverof water from the Colorado River. One agreement, in particular those that affect the water diversions of the IID. One agreement, the QSA, cal s for mandatory flows to the sea for a cal s for mandatory flows to the sea for a
period of timeperiod of time, and the other agreement. The other agreement, the Drought Contingency Plan for the Lower Colorado River Basin, poses further potential delivery curtailments in the Lower Basin and stimulated discussion among stakeholders stimulated discussion among stakeholders about
about Salton Sea restoration. restoration.
Quantification Settlement Agreement
Under the 1922 Colorado River Compact, seven states in the western United States agreed to Under the 1922 Colorado River Compact, seven states in the western United States agreed to
specified al otments of Colorado River water totaling 15 MAF per year, with California specified al otments of Colorado River water totaling 15 MAF per year, with California
apportioned 4.4 MAFapportioned 4.4 MAF out of this amount (the largest among the seven states). The states in the Upper of this amount (the largest among the seven states). The states in the Upper
Colorado River Basin include Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, New Mexico, and part of Arizona; the Colorado River Basin include Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, New Mexico, and part of Arizona; the
states in the Lower Basin include the rest of Arizona, California, and Nevada.states in the Lower Basin include the rest of Arizona, California, and Nevada.51 38 Historical y, 75% Historical y, 75%
(3.3 MAF per year) of California’s water was diverted to the Imperial and Coachel a Val eys in (3.3 MAF per year) of California’s water was diverted to the Imperial and Coachel a Val eys in
Southern California (i.e., areas with irrigation drainage to the Salton Sea), Southern California (i.e., areas with irrigation drainage to the Salton Sea), making these areas the making these areas the
largest users of Colorado River water in the basin. Through the early 1990s, California’s use of largest users of Colorado River water in the basin. Through the early 1990s, California’s use of
Colorado River water was on average 800,000 acre-feet per year in Colorado River water was on average 800,000 acre-feet per year in excess of its al ocation of 4.4. of its al ocation of 4.4.
MAF, primarily because other states in the compact were withdrawing less than their shares. As MAF, primarily because other states in the compact were withdrawing less than their shares. As
other states increased their water consumption, the water other states increased their water consumption, the water available available for Californiafor California was reduced to was reduced to
avoid major water-delivery shortfal s. In 1996, the avoid major water-delivery shortfal s. In 1996, the Secretary of the Interior required California to Secretary of the Interior required California to
develop and enact a strategy to reduce its water consumption to its al ocated levels. The result develop and enact a strategy to reduce its water consumption to its al ocated levels. The result
was the 2003 Quantification Settlement Agreement (QSA)was the 2003 QSA, which provided for reductions , which provided for reductions to
to California’s use of Colorado River water. California’s use of Colorado River water.
The QSA incorporated several changes that affected the Salton Sea. The agreement finalized a The QSA incorporated several changes that affected the Salton Sea. The agreement finalized a
1998 1998 proposed revised water rightproposal revising water rights for the Colorado River Basin’s largest water rights holder— for the Colorado River Basin’s largest water rights holder—
IID—IID—that directed 300,000 acre-feet per yearwhich directed the transfer, in gradual y increasing amounts, of Colorado River agricultural diversions from IID of Colorado River agricultural diversions from IID
to urbanto other users in Southern California. users in Southern California.5239 These reductions were agreed to on a These reductions were agreed to on a long-term basis (i.e., 45 years, with an optional 30-year renewal period) and were widely acknowledged to result in reduced inflows to the Salton Sea.40 These inflow reductions were to be 36long-term basis

48 B. A. Jones and J. Fleck, “Shrinking Lakes, Air Pollution, and Human Health: Evidence from California’s Salton
Sea,” Science of the Total Environment, vol. 712 (April 10, 2020). T he study’s model indicated that each 1-foot drop in
lake elevation between 2008 and 2014 was associated with an increase in particulate matter that led to an increase in
respiratory mortality rates in surrounding communities of approximately 1-15 people per year and annual health costs
of $13.2 million-$147.3 million per year.
49 E. Lindberg, “As Salton Sea Shrinks, Experts Fear Far-Reaching Health Consequences,” E. Lindberg, “As Salton Sea Shrinks, Experts Fear Far-Reaching Health Consequences,” USC News, August 28, , August 28,
2019, at https://news.usc.edu/159380/salton-sea-shrinking-asthma-respiratory-health-air-quality/. 2019, at https://news.usc.edu/159380/salton-sea-shrinking-asthma-respiratory-health-air-quality/.
5037 California Air Resources Board, California Air Resources Board, Salton Sea Windblown Dust Levels and Sources, 2019. 2019.
5138 For background on Colorado River allocations, see CRS Report R45546, For background on Colorado River allocations, see CRS Report R45546, Management of the Colorado River: Water
Allocations, Drought, and the Federal Role, by Charles V. Stern and Pervaze A. Sheikh . , by Charles V. Stern and Pervaze A. Sheikh .
52 Specifically, it directed 200,000 acre-feet per year 39 T ransfers from IID to the San Diego County Water Authority (SDCWA) from IID to the San Diego County Water Authority (SDCWA) and
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(i.e., 45 years, with an optional 30-year renewal period) and were widely acknowledged to result
in reduced inflows to the Salton Sea.53 These inflow reductions were to be mitigated by 200,000
acre-feet per year of, the Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD), and the Municipal Water District of Southern California are scheduled to peak at 303,000 acre -feet per year beginning in 2026. For the full schedule, see Imperial Irrigation District, “Compromise IID/SDWCA & QSA Delivery Schedule,” at https://www.iid.com/home/showpublisheddocument/4051/635648001335730000. Detailed accounting of actual transfers is available in IID’s QSA annual reports at https://www.iid.com/water/library/qsa-water-transfer/qsa-annual-reports. 40 At the time of the QSA’s signing, inflows to the Salton Sea from irrigation drainage were approximately 1.4 million Congressional Research Service 8 link to page 14 Salton Sea Restoration mitigated by water transfers from IID to the sea over the next 15 years (i.e., through 2017 water transfers from IID to the sea over the next 15 years (i.e., through
2018), with the intent to provide time to study and implement long-term restoration actions.), with the intent to provide time to study and implement long-term restoration actions. It
was 41 QSA signees acknowledged that after that time, additional mitigation actions would be required to prevent acknowledged that after that time, additional mitigation actions would be required to prevent
the the precipitous decline in the level and water quality of the Salton Sea. precipitous decline in the level and water quality of the Salton Sea.
As part of the QSA, the State of California agreed to assume responsibility for Salton Sea As part of the QSA, the State of California agreed to assume responsibility for Salton Sea
restorationmitigation costs in excess of $133 mil ion (2003 dollars). costs in excess of $133 mil ion (2003 dollars).5442 State legislation implementing the State legislation implementing the
QSA directed multiple mitigation measures intended to restore the sea, from water transfers to QSA directed multiple mitigation measures intended to restore the sea, from water transfers to
restoration actions. QSA implementing legislation also required the state to identify a Salton Sea restoration actions. QSA implementing legislation also required the state to identify a Salton Sea
restoration plan—and a funding plan to implement the restoration plan—and specified that the restoration plan—and a funding plan to implement the restoration plan—and specified that the
California Department of Natural Resources should lead these efforts.California Department of Natural Resources should lead these efforts.5543 (For more information on (For more information on
restoration efforts, see restoration efforts, see “Restoration and Mitigation Plans,” below.) ” below.)
The Salton Sea and Colorado River Drought Contingency Plans
Ongoing drought conditions in the western United States and the potential for water supply Ongoing drought conditions in the western United States and the potential for water supply
shortages prompted Colorado River Basin states to engage in negotiations with Reclamation, shortages prompted Colorado River Basin states to engage in negotiations with Reclamation,
which manages some Colorado River waters and informs the Secretary of the Interior in the which manages some Colorado River waters and informs the Secretary of the Interior in the
Secretary’s capacity as lower basin Secretary’s capacity as lower basin water master. These negotiations focused on additional future . These negotiations focused on additional future
reductions (i.e., delivery cutbacks beyond reductions (i.e., delivery cutbacks beyond the QSAprior agreements) and other basin-wide actions related to ) and other basin-wide actions related to
Colorado River water deliveries. After several years of negotiations, on March 19, 2019, Colorado River water deliveries. After several years of negotiations, on March 19, 2019,
Reclamation and the Colorado River Basin states finalized drought contingency plans (DCPs) for Reclamation and the Colorado River Basin states finalized drought contingency plans (DCPs) for
the Upper and Lower Colorado River Basins. The DCPs included commitments to curtail water the Upper and Lower Colorado River Basins. The DCPs included commitments to curtail water
deliveries under some scenarios, including—for the first time—cutbacks to California’s deliveries deliveries under some scenarios, including—for the first time—cutbacks to California’s deliveries
if Lake Mead if Lake Mead (the reservoir behind Hoover Dam) water levels dropped below a certain elevation. These plans, which required water levels dropped below a certain elevation. These plans, which required
congressional authorization to be implemented, were enacted on April 16, 2019, in the Colorado congressional authorization to be implemented, were enacted on April 16, 2019, in the Colorado
River Drought Contingency Plan Authorization Act (P.L. 116-River Drought Contingency Plan Authorization Act (P.L. 116- 114). 114).
To be fully implemented, the DCPs also required additional agreements by state and local entities To be fully implemented, the DCPs also required additional agreements by state and local entities
that would make it possible to realize the plans’ state-level commitments. Whereas most states that would make it possible to realize the plans’ state-level commitments. Whereas most states
and users approved the DCPs, IID made its approval contingent on the State of California and the and users approved the DCPs, IID made its approval contingent on the State of California and the
federal government committing to funding for the 10-year Phase 1 Plan of the SSMP at a 1:1 federal government committing to funding for the 10-year Phase 1 Plan of the SSMP at a 1:1
federal-to-state funding ratio. IID required that this commitment be in addition to mitigating al federal-to-state funding ratio. IID required that this commitment be in addition to mitigating al
future conditions resulting from the DCPsfuture conditions resulting from the DCPs (i.e., additional Lake Meade level declines resulting
from reduced Colorado River flows or deliveries). At the time, IID’s main financial request of the . At the time, IID’s main financial request of the
federal government was for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to al ocate $200 mil ionfederal government was for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to al ocate $200 mil ion
in funding from the 2018 farm bil (P.L. 115-334) for Salton Sea restoration. USDA did not in funding from the 2018 farm bil (P.L. 115-334) for Salton Sea restoration. USDA did not
commit commit 2018 farm bil funds and, as a result, IID did not support the final approved legislation.2018 farm bil funds and, as a result, IID did not support the final approved legislation.5644

100,000 acre-feet per year to the Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD) and the Municipal Water District of
Southern California.
53 At the time of the QSA’s signing, inflows to the Salton Sea from irrigation drainage were approximately 1.4 MAF
per year. Agricultural drainage flows typically make up 90% of inflows to the Salton Sea.
54acre-feet per year. Agricultural drainage flows typically make up 90% of inflows to the Salton Sea. 41 According to IID, these requirements resulted in transfers of 776,757 acre-feet for Salton Sea Mitigation Conservation from 2003 to 2019. See Imperial Irrigat ion District, Water & QSA Im plem entation Report, 2019 , at https://www.iid.com/water/library/qsa-water-transfer/qsa-annual-reports. 42 T his is the amount the QSA requires the three local water agencies (IID, CVWD, and SDCWA) to pay for T his is the amount the QSA requires the three local water agencies (IID, CVWD, and SDCWA) to pay for
restoration. restoration.
5543 California Fish and Game Code, §§2931, 2942. California Fish and Game Code, §§2931, 2942.
5644 R. E. Kelley, Chairman of the Board of Supervisors, R. E. Kelley, Chairman of the Board of Supervisors, County of Imperial, Proclamation of Local Emergency for Air
Pollution at the Salton Sea, Imperial County Board of Supervisors, October 22, 2019, at https://imperial.granicus.com/, Imperial County Board of Supervisors, October 22, 2019, at https://imperial.granicus.com/
MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=1744&meta_id=251728. MetaViewer.php?view_id=2&event_id=1744&meta_id=251728.
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Restoration and Mitigation Plans
Since the early 1960s, various federal, state, and private entities have developed comprehensive Since the early 1960s, various federal, state, and private entities have developed comprehensive
proposals to restore the Salton Sea and mitigate issues associated with its declining lake levels. proposals to restore the Salton Sea and mitigate issues associated with its declining lake levels.
These plans have common objectives to control salinity, maintain and restore habitat, and These plans have common objectives to control salinity, maintain and restore habitat, and
stabilize water levels, although the methods for achieving these goals differstabilize water levels, although the methods for achieving these goals differ. Table 1 provides a provides a
list of list of fourfive recent plans for restoring the Salton Sea. recent plans for restoring the Salton Sea. SeveralSome of these plans incorporate elements of these plans incorporate elements
of of prior plans or express consistency with other plans that were under development. For example, prior plans or express consistency with other plans that were under development. For example,
the 2007 Reclamation feasibility study incorporated many elements of the prior state and the 2007 Reclamation feasibility study incorporated many elements of the prior state and
nongovernmental plans, and the 2015 IID plan noted its consistency with the state’s phased nongovernmental plans, and the 2015 IID plan noted its consistency with the state’s phased
approach to restoration, which was in early planning stages. approach to restoration, which was in early planning stages.
Table 1. Salton Sea Restoration Plans
(restoration plans since 2000) (restoration plans since 2000)
Plan Name (Year)
Lead Entity
Description
Estimated Cost
Salton Sea Authority Plan
Salton Sea Authority Salton Sea Authority
Restoration plan that Restoration plan that
Not available Not available
for Multi-Purpose Project
included the construction included the construction
(200 (2006)a
of a causeway across the of a causeway across the
center of the Salton Sea. center of the Salton Sea.
Salton Sea Ecosystem
State of California State of California
Comprehensive Comprehensive
$8.9 bil ion (2007 dol ars) $8.9 bil ion (2007 dol ars)
Restoration Program
restoration plan issued in restoration plan issued in
Programmatic
response to requirements response to requirements
Environmental Impact
under 2003 Quantification under 2003 Quantification
Report (200 (2007)b
Settlement Agreement. Settlement Agreement.
Comprehensive Report on
Bureau of Reclamation Bureau of Reclamation
Federal study laying out Federal study laying out
$3.5 bil ion to $14 bil ion $3.5 bil ion to $14 bil ion
Restoration of the Salton
five alternative five alternative
(2006 dol ars) (2006 dol ars)
Sea (200 (2007)c
restoration plans and a restoration plans and a
no-action alternative. no-action alternative.
Salton Sea Restoration Salton Sea Restoration
and Imperial Irrigation District Imperial Irrigation District
Initiative with design Initiative with design
$3.1 bil ion (2016 dol ars) $3.1 bil ion (2016 dol ars)
and Renewable Energy Renewable Energy
Initiative concepts for restoration, concepts for restoration,
Initiative (201(2015)d
air quality mitigation, air quality mitigation,
geothermal development, geothermal development,
and other renewable and other renewable
energy technologies. energy technologies.
Salton Sea Management Salton Sea Management
State of California State of California
Two-phase plan for Two-phase plan for
Phase 1 Plan: $420 mil ion Phase 1 Plan: $420 mil ion
Program Program (201(2017)e
restoring the Salton Sea restoring the Salton Sea
(2017 dol ars) (2017 dol ars)
by conveying water to the by conveying water to the
Phase 2 Plan: TBA Phase 2 Plan: TBA
lake, reducing salinity, and lake, reducing salinity, and
covering/restoring covering/restoring
approximately 30,000 approximately 30,000
acres of exposed lake acres of exposed lake
bed. bed.
Source: CRS, based on individual restoration plans (see below). CRS, based on individual restoration plans (see below).
Notes:
a. TetraTech, a. TetraTech, Salton Sea Funding and Feasibility Action Plan, Salton Sea Authority, May 2016, p. 21, at , Salton Sea Authority, May 2016, p. 21, at
https://saltonseaauthority.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/SSA-Benchmark-7-for-FFAP.pdf. https://saltonseaauthority.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/SSA-Benchmark-7-for-FFAP.pdf.
b. California Department of Water Resources and California Department of Fish and Game, b. California Department of Water Resources and California Department of Fish and Game, Salton Sea
Ecosystem Restoration Program Final Programmatic Environmental Impact Report, 2007. , 2007.
c. U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, c. U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, Restoration of the Salton Sea, December 2007, at https://www.usbr.gov/lc/region/, December 2007, at https://www.usbr.gov/lc/region/
saltnsea/finalreport/index.html. saltnsea/finalreport/index.html.
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d. Imperial Irrigation District, d. Imperial Irrigation District, Salton Sea Restoration and Renewable Energy Initiative Framework Document, July , July
2015, at https://saltonseanow.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Draft-SSRREI-Framework-Document-July- 2015, at https://saltonseanow.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Draft-SSRREI-Framework-Document-July-
22-2015.pdf.22-2015.pdf.
e. California Department of Water Resources, California Natural Resources Agency, e. California Department of Water Resources, California Natural Resources Agency, andan d California California
Department of Fish and Wildlife, Department of Fish and Wildlife, Salton Sea Management Program, Phase 1: 10-Year Plan, March 2017. March 2017.
As noted, the State of California agreed to assume responsibility for restoring the Salton Sea as As noted, the State of California agreed to assume responsibility for restoring the Salton Sea as
part of the QSA. In November 2014, IID submitted a petition to the California State Water part of the QSA. In November 2014, IID submitted a petition to the California State Water
Resources Control Board to exercise its authority over the QSA, as adopted in Revised Water Resources Control Board to exercise its authority over the QSA, as adopted in Revised Water
Rights Order (WRO) 2002-0013. Rights Order (WRO) 2002-0013.5745 Among other things, IID argued that WRO 2002-13 approved Among other things, IID argued that WRO 2002-13 approved
QSA transfers conditioned upon California’s fulfil ment of its statutory commitment to restore the QSA transfers conditioned upon California’s fulfil ment of its statutory commitment to restore the
Salton Sea. Based on the state’s lack of restoration progress to date, IID asked the state water Salton Sea. Based on the state’s lack of restoration progress to date, IID asked the state water
board to enter an order to ensure its success. On November 7, 2017, the state water board board to enter an order to ensure its success. On November 7, 2017, the state water board
responded with a revision to its 2002-0013 order in the form of Order WR 2017-0134, which responded with a revision to its 2002-0013 order in the form of Order WR 2017-0134, which
required annual commitments by the state and a framework for Salton Sea restoration and required annual commitments by the state and a framework for Salton Sea restoration and
mitigation efforts.mitigation efforts.5846 The order acknowledged the SSMP, which had been released since IID filed The order acknowledged the SSMP, which had been released since IID filed
its petition (see its petition (see “Salton Sea Management Program”Program” for additional discussion). The order required for additional discussion). The order required
the State of California, through the California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA), to begin the State of California, through the California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA), to begin
restoring the Salton Sea so that approximately 30,000 acres of exposed playa would be restored restoring the Salton Sea so that approximately 30,000 acres of exposed playa would be restored
through habitat and dust suppression projects by December 31, 2028. The order also cal ed on the through habitat and dust suppression projects by December 31, 2028. The order also cal ed on the
CNRA to identify a long-term plan for restoring the sea for an initial 10 years and to develop CNRA to identify a long-term plan for restoring the sea for an initial 10 years and to develop
subsequent 10-year plans to guide projects after the initial 10-year plan was completed. subsequent 10-year plans to guide projects after the initial 10-year plan was completed.
Salton Sea Management Program
The State of California’s current plan for restoring the Salton Sea dates to 2015, when then-The State of California’s current plan for restoring the Salton Sea dates to 2015, when then-
Governor Jerry Brown formed the state Salton Sea Task Force and directed it to take actions Governor Jerry Brown formed the state Salton Sea Task Force and directed it to take actions
related to the sea. The task force was to create the SSMP, develop a process to accelerate project related to the sea. The task force was to create the SSMP, develop a process to accelerate project
implementation and delivery, and meet short- and medium-term goals for dust suppression and implementation and delivery, and meet short- and medium-term goals for dust suppression and
habitat projects habitat projects (Figure 4).).5947 The SSMP was The SSMP was releasedcreated in 2017 and is a comprehensive, multiphase in 2017 and is a comprehensive, multiphase
restoration restoration planprogram for the Salton Sea. In 2018, the for the Salton Sea. In 2018, the task forceCalifornia Natural Resources Agency, the Department of Water Resources, and the Department of Fish and Wildlife released a 10-year released a 10-year Phase 1 plan (i.e., Phase 1 plan (i.e.,
from 2018 through 2028) from 2018 through 2028) forto begin implementing the SSMP. the SSMP.6048

5745 State of California, State Water Resources Control Board, “Petition of Imperial Irrigation District for Modification of State of California, State Water Resources Control Board, “Petition of Imperial Irrigation District for Modification of
Revised Water Rights Order 2002-0013, Revised Water Rights Order 2002-0013, Im perial Irrigation District’s (IID) and San Diego County Water Authority’s
(SDCWA) Am ended Joint Petition for App rovalApproval of a Long -Term Transfer of Conserved Water from IID to SDCWA and
to Change the Point of Diversion, Place of Use, and Purpose of Use Under Perm it 7643 on Application 7482 of
Im perial Irrigation District,” November 18, 2014. ,” November 18, 2014.
5846 State of California, State of California, Stat eState Water Resources Control Board Water Resources Control Board, Order WR 2017-1034, Order WR 2017-1034, In the Matter of Imperial Irrigation
District Regarding State Water Board Revised Order WRO 2002 -0013. .
5947 T he short-term goal was 9,000-12,000 acres of dust suppression and habitat projects, and the medium-term goal was T he short-term goal was 9,000-12,000 acres of dust suppression and habitat projects, and the medium-term goal was
18,000 to 25,000 acres of projects. 18,000 to 25,000 acres of projects.
60 2017 SSMP48 California Natural Resources Agency, California Department of Water Resources, and California Departmen t of Fish and Wildlife, Salton Sea Managem ent Program : Phase 1 -10 Year Plan, August 2018. .
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Figure 4. Proposed Areas to Implement Dust Suppression

Source: California Natural Resources Agency, California Natural Resources Agency, 2020 Annual Report on the Salton Sea Management Program,
February 2020, p. 31, at http://saltonsea.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/2020-Annual-Report_2-21-20-v3.pdf. February 2020, p. 31, at http://saltonsea.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/2020-Annual-Report_2-21-20-v3.pdf.
Notes: Phase A project areas began construction in 2020. Phase B project areas Phase A project areas began construction in 2020. Phase B project areas are were being planned in 2020 and being planned in 2020 and
are to be implemented in 2021. are to be implemented in 2021.
Phase 1 of the SSMP includes projects and activities that aim to Phase 1 of the SSMP includes projects and activities that aim to convey water to the Salton Sea,
reduce salinity, and cover or restore approximately 30,000 acres of exposed playa. Proposed
construction projects to treat exposed playa under the SSMP would increase the areas treated
under the plan from 500 acres in 2018 to 4,200 acres in 2028.61 Other projects in Phase 1 include
 air quality and habitat projects, as wel as the water “backbone” infrastructure
associated with these projects;

61 2017 SSMP, p. 8.
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 the Phase I Species Conservation Habitat Project, which is expected to suppress
toxic dust by creating approximately 3,770 acres of habitat for waterfowl on the
southern edge of the Salton Sea;
 the Red Hil Bay Restoration Project (a joint effort by FWS and IID), which aims
to create 530 acres of wetland habitat; and
 the Torres Martinez Wetland Project, an effort of the Torres Martinez Desert
Cahuil a Indians to build shal ow wetlands along the northern edge of the Salton
Sea.restore habitat for fish and wildlife in the Salton Sea and suppress dust. The projects are a sequence of habitat and dust control projects around the sea that are consistent with the Salton Sea Species Conservation Habitat (SCH) Project and the Salton Sea Ecosystem Restoration Program Programmatic Environmental Impact Report. Overal , Phase 1 projects aim to address approximately 30,000 Congressional Research Service 12 link to page 18 Salton Sea Restoration acres around the Salton Sea. Approximately 15,000 acres are to be used for fish and wildlife habitat restoration, and approximately 15,000 acres are to be used for dust suppression projects.49
DOI entered into several memoranda of understanding (MOUs) with California as DOI developed DOI entered into several memoranda of understanding (MOUs) with California as DOI developed
and undertook work on the SSMP, most recently in the form of an MOU executed in August and undertook work on the SSMP, most recently in the form of an MOU executed in August
2016.2016.6250 Among other things, DOI, through Reclamation, agreed to designate officials to serve on Among other things, DOI, through Reclamation, agreed to designate officials to serve on
the Salton Sea Working Group; coordinate federal spending with state spending; recognize the the Salton Sea Working Group; coordinate federal spending with state spending; recognize the
state’s SSMP restoration and mitigation project goals; and agree to pursue federal appropriations, state’s SSMP restoration and mitigation project goals; and agree to pursue federal appropriations,
budgets, and funding opportunities to support certain SSMP activities.budgets, and funding opportunities to support certain SSMP activities.6351 In addition to In addition to
Reclamation, other federal engagement on the SSMP includes FWS efforts to implement the Red Reclamation, other federal engagement on the SSMP includes FWS efforts to implement the Red
Hil Bay Restoration Project; an agreement with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to Hil Bay Restoration Project; an agreement with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to
facilitate funding and permitting under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) to facilitate funding and permitting under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) to
implement restoration authorities in the Salton Sea; and efforts by USDA’s Natural Resources implement restoration authorities in the Salton Sea; and efforts by USDA’s Natural Resources
Conservation Service (NRCS) to support the SSMP’s objectives through a Regional Conservation Conservation Service (NRCS) to support the SSMP’s objectives through a Regional Conservation
Partnership Project. Partnership Project.
As of 2018, the total estimated cost for Phase 1 of the SSMP was $420.0 mil ion (2017 dollars). As of 2018, the total estimated cost for Phase 1 of the SSMP was $420.0 mil ion (2017 dollars).64 52
Available funding anticipated for the plan includes funding from California state water bonds Available funding anticipated for the plan includes funding from California state water bonds
passed in 2014 (Proposition 1) and 2018 (Proposition 68), plus other appropriated funding passed in 2014 (Proposition 1) and 2018 (Proposition 68), plus other appropriated funding
sources. As of 2020, state appropriated funds totaled $sources. As of 2020, state appropriated funds totaled $356.8345.3 mil ion, with the majority of these mil ion, with the majority of these
funds yet to be spent. funds yet to be spent.6553
Status of SSMP Implementation
In 2020, the state completed the first SSMP project, the 112-acre Bruchard Road Dust In 2020, the state completed the first SSMP project, the 112-acre Bruchard Road Dust
Suppression Project. The Species Conservation Habitat Project—a major component of the Suppression Project. The Species Conservation Habitat Project—a major component of the
SSMP—SSMP—iswas expected to begin in 2020 and to be completed by the end of 2023. expected to begin in 2020 and to be completed by the end of 2023.6654 The project’s aim is to construct ponds, within approximately 4,110 acres, to restore fish-eating bird habitat lost due to increasing salinity and exposed playa. In July 2020, the In July 2020, the
state developed a Dust Suppression Action Plan to prioritize 8,200 acres of dust suppression state developed a Dust Suppression Action Plan to prioritize 8,200 acres of dust suppression
projects at various emissive projects at various emissive lake-bed locations, including up to 3,800 acres of surface roughening
projects to be completed in 2020.67lake bed locations.55 California also is continuing the programmatic environmental California also is continuing the programmatic environmental
planning process that is to al ow for NEPA compliance and federal permitting of the 30,000 acres planning process that is to al ow for NEPA compliance and federal permitting of the 30,000 acres

62in the Phase I plan. In addition, the state is working on the long-term (i.e., post-2028) plan for restoration. Figure 5 shows the status of the SSMP’s various projects and processes. 49 California Natural Resources Agency, Updated Draft Salton Sea Management Program: Phase 1 10 -Year Plan Project Description, March 2021, pp. 1-1, at https://saltonsea.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Updated-Draft-Salton-Sea-Management -Program-Phase-I-10-Year-Plan-Project-Description-March-2021.pdf. 50 “Memorandum of Understanding by and Between the United States Department of the Interior and the State of “Memorandum of Understanding by and Between the United States Department of the Interior and the State of
California Natural Resources Agency Regarding the Cooperation California Natural Resources Agency Regarding the Cooperation o fof Activities to Manage the Activities to Manage the SaltonSalt on Sea,” August 31, Sea,” August 31,
2016, at https://www.doi.gov/sites/doi.gov/files/uploads/ca-doi_2106_ss_mou_signed_1.pdf. Hereinafter, 2016 MOU. 2016, at https://www.doi.gov/sites/doi.gov/files/uploads/ca-doi_2106_ss_mou_signed_1.pdf. Hereinafter, 2016 MOU.
T his memorandum T his memorandum reportedly was was amended in January 2017. amended in January 2017.
6351 2016 MOU, p. 5. 2016 MOU, p. 5.
6452 State of California Department of Water Resources, California Natural Resources Agency, and California State of California Department of Water Resources, California Natural Resources Agency, and California
Department of Fish and Wildlife, Department of Fish and Wildlife, Salton Sea Managem ent Program , August 2018. August 2018.
6553 2020 Salton Sea Management Program Annual Report, p. 14. p. 14.
66 202054 Salton Sea Management Program Annual Report, pp. 6, 23.
67, Project Delivery, 2021, at https://saltonsea.ca.gov/projects/. 55 2020 Salton Sea Management Program Annual Report, p. 6. Gavin Newsom, Governor of California, , p. 6. Gavin Newsom, Governor of California, California
State Budget 2020-2021: Sum mary, State of California, June 26, 2020, p. 93, at http://www.ebudget.ca.gov/budget/, State of California, June 26, 2020, p. 93, at http://www.ebudget.ca.gov/budget/
2020-21EN/#/BudgetSummary. 2020-21EN/#/BudgetSummary.
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in the Phase I plan. In addition, the state is working on the long-term (i.e., post-2028) plan for
restoration. Figure 5 shows the status of the SSMP’s various projects and processes.
Salton Sea Restoration The State of California included $47 mil ion in its FY2020 budget to address issues in and around The State of California included $47 mil ion in its FY2020 budget to address issues in and around
the Salton Sea. A portion of those funds (approximately $28 mil ion) is to be used for restoration the Salton Sea. A portion of those funds (approximately $28 mil ion) is to be used for restoration
activities in the New River, which feeds into the sea. Another portion (approximately $19 mil ion) activities in the New River, which feeds into the sea. Another portion (approximately $19 mil ion)
is to be for the North Lake Pilot Project, which aims to construct a deepwater recreational area in is to be for the North Lake Pilot Project, which aims to construct a deepwater recreational area in
the northern portion of the Salton Sea. the northern portion of the Salton Sea.6856
Figure 5. Salton Sea Management Program (SSMP) Project Delivery Timeline

Source: California Natural Resources Agency, California Natural Resources Agency, 2020 Annual Report on the Salton Sea Management Program,
February 2020. February 2020.
Federal, State, and Local Roles in Restoration
The State of California is leading restoration activities in the Salton Sea, along with the Salton The State of California is leading restoration activities in the Salton Sea, along with the Salton
Sea Authority, IID, and the Torres-Martinez Band of Desert Cahuil a Indians. Federal actions Sea Authority, IID, and the Torres-Martinez Band of Desert Cahuil a Indians. Federal actions
directed toward restoring the Salton Sea are not following any comprehensive plandirected toward restoring the Salton Sea are not following any comprehensive plan; however, USACE is the designated federal partner for the SSMP. Restoration . Restoration
efforts by federal agencies are largely in the form of pilot projects; monitoring; and individual efforts by federal agencies are largely in the form of pilot projects; monitoring; and individual
agency plans, proposals, or authoritiesagency plans, proposals, or authorities. Table 2 presents a summary of federal, state, and local presents a summary of federal, state, and local
entities and their activities to entities and their activities to restore the Salton Searestore the Salton Sea.

6856 Gavin Newsom, Governor of California, Gavin Newsom, Governor of California, California State Budget 2020-2021: Summary, State of California, June 26, , State of California, June 26,
2020, p. 93, at http://www.ebudget.ca.gov/budget/2020-21EN/#/BudgetSummary. 2020, p. 93, at http://www.ebudget.ca.gov/budget/2020-21EN/#/BudgetSummary.
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Table 2. Role of Selected Federal, State, and Local Agencies
in Salton Sea Restoration
Entity
Role in Restoring the Salton Sea
Federal Agencies

Bureau of Reclamation Bureau of Reclamation
Implements the Salton Sea Research Project and other restoration activities. In Implements the Salton Sea Research Project and other restoration activities. In
addition to general Reclamation authorities under the Reclamation Act of 1902, addition to general Reclamation authorities under the Reclamation Act of 1902,
several laws form the basis for Reclamation’s Salton Sea Research Project. P.L. 102-several laws form the basis for Reclamation’s Salton Sea Research Project. P.L. 102-
575 directed the Secretary of the Interior (via Reclamation) to conduct research on 575 directed the Secretary of the Interior (via Reclamation) to conduct research on
projects to control salinity levels, provide habitat for endangered species, enhance projects to control salinity levels, provide habitat for endangered species, enhance
fisheries, and protect recreational values in the Salton Sea. fisheries, and protect recreational values in the Salton Sea.
Authorized to conduct feasibility studies on restoration options for the Salton Sea Authorized to conduct feasibility studies on restoration options for the Salton Sea
(transmitted in January 2000) and to authorize river reclamation and restoration (transmitted in January 2000) and to authorize river reclamation and restoration
activities on the New and Alamo Rivers (tributaries that flow into the sea). P.L. 108-activities on the New and Alamo Rivers (tributaries that flow into the sea). P.L. 108-
361 directed the Secretary of the Interior, in coordination with the State of 361 directed the Secretary of the Interior, in coordination with the State of
California, to complete a feasibility study on a preferred alternative forCalifornia, to complete a feasibility study on a preferred alternative for Salton Sea Salton Sea
restoration (transmitted in 2007). restoration (transmitted in 2007).
Partnered with the U. S. Geological Survey to implement the Salton Sea Ecosystem Monitoring Project to evaluate the feasibility of restoring shal ow water saline habitat ponds prior to implementing larger projects. U.S. Fish and Wildlife U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Administers the Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge in the southern edge of the Administers the Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge in the southern edge of the
Service Service
Sea. Implementing the Red Hil Bay Restoration Project adjacent to the Salton Sea Sea. Implementing the Red Hil Bay Restoration Project adjacent to the Salton Sea
Wildlife Refuge under the authority of the National Wildlife Refuge System Wildlife Refuge under the authority of the National Wildlife Refuge System
Administration Act (16 U.S.C. §Administration Act (16 U.S.C. § 668dd); the project aims to restore wetland habitat 668dd); the project aims to restore wetland habitat
for migratory birds and waterfowl and to suppress dust. for migratory birds and waterfowl and to suppress dust.
U.S. Geological Survey U.S. Geological Survey
Conducts scientific studies in and around the Salton Sea related to restoration and Conducts scientific studies in and around the Salton Sea related to restoration and
energy development. Some of these activities are under the Ecosystems Research energy development. Some of these activities are under the Ecosystems Research
Program and the National Water Quality Assessment Program. Program and the National Water Quality Assessment Program.
U.S. Army Corps of U.S. Army Corps of
Authorized to conduct ecosystem restoration in the Salton Sea through §3032 of Authorized to conduct ecosystem restoration in the Salton Sea through §3032 of
Engineers Engineers
P.L. 110-114, as amended. This provision authorizes a program to implement P.L. 110-114, as amended. This provision authorizes a program to implement
project-specific restoration plans and projects consistent with studies to increase project-specific restoration plans and projects consistent with studies to increase
the success of ful -scale restoration projects in the sea. the success of ful -scale restoration projects in the sea.
U.S. Department of U.S. Department of
Partnered with the Salton Sea Authority in a Regional Conservation Partnership to Partnered with the Salton Sea Authority in a Regional Conservation Partnership to
Agriculture, Natural Agriculture, Natural
provide technical and financial assistance to farmers in the Imperial Irrigation provide technical and financial assistance to farmers in the Imperial Irrigation
Resources Conservation Resources Conservation
District (IID), which is within the Salton Basin. The project aims to improve water District (IID), which is within the Salton Basin. The project aims to improve water
Service Service
quality, reduce poor air quality, improve soils and drought resistance, and conserve quality, reduce poor air quality, improve soils and drought resistance, and conserve
species habitat of the sea. species habitat of the sea.
State Agencies

California Natural California Natural
LeadIs the lead state agency overseeing and guiding Salton Sea activities. Coordinates state agency overseeing and guiding Salton Sea activities. Coordinates and
Resources Agency Resources Agency
and negotiates with other local,negotiates with other local, state, and federal agencies. state, and federal agencies.
California Department of California Department of
Implements most of the state’s restoration projects at the Salton Sea, including Implements most of the state’s restoration projects at the Salton Sea, including
Water Resources Water Resources
engineering and design, contracting, construction, and operations and maintenance. engineering and design, contracting, construction, and operations and maintenance.
State Water Resources State Water Resources
Responsible for protecting water quality, water flows for aquatic life, and water Responsible for protecting water quality, water flows for aquatic life, and water
Control Board Control Board
rights, including permits for Quantification Settlement Agreement (QSA) water rights, including permits for Quantification Settlement Agreement (QSA) water
transfers and mitigation water, and for requiring the state to construct specified transfers and mitigation water, and for requiring the state to construct specified
projects at the Salton Sea. projects at the Salton Sea.
California Department of California Department of
Designs Salton Sea habitat projects and conducts monitoring. Issues regulatory Designs Salton Sea habitat projects and conducts monitoring. Issues regulatory
Fish and Game Fish and Game
permits for restoration projects and administers the Salton Sea Restoration Fund. permits for restoration projects and administers the Salton Sea Restoration Fund.
Tribal

Torres‑Martinez Band of Torres‑Martinez Band of
Largest private landowner of property around the Salton Sea Largest private landowner of property around the Salton Sea, including roughly half. Partners with other
Desert Cahuil a Indians Desert Cahuil a Indians
of the land under the sea. Partners with other agencies on restoration projects,agencies on restoration projects,
including pilot wetland project on tribal land at north end of the sea. including pilot wetland project on tribal land at north end of the sea.
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Entity
Role in Restoring the Salton Sea
Local/Regional Entities

Quantitative Settlement Quantitative Settlement
Includes the IID, Coachel a Val ey Water District, San Diego County Water Includes the IID, Coachel a Val ey Water District, San Diego County Water
Agreement Joint Powers Agreement Joint Powers
Authority, and state Department of Fish and Wildlife. Administers funding for Authority, and state Department of Fish and Wildlife. Administers funding for
Authority (QSA-JPA) Authority (QSA-JPA)
implementing mitigation activities required by QSA permits. implementing mitigation activities required by QSA permits.
Coachel a Val ey Water Coachel a Val ey Water
Party to the QSA that helps to fund mitigation projects required by QSA permits Party to the QSA that helps to fund mitigation projects required by QSA permits
District (CVWD) District (CVWD)
and serves as legal counsel for the QSA-JPA. Responsible for water deliveries for and serves as legal counsel for the QSA-JPA. Responsible for water deliveries for
irrigation and domestic uses in the Coachel a Val ey near the Salton Sea. irrigation and domestic uses in the Coachel a Val ey near the Salton Sea.
San Diego County Water San Diego County Water
As a party to the QSA, funds a portion of the mitigation projects required by QSA As a party to the QSA, funds a portion of the mitigation projects required by QSA
Authority (SDWA) Authority (SDWA)
permits and handles administration and finance for the QSA-JPA. permits and handles administration and finance for the QSA-JPA.
Imperial Irrigation District Imperial Irrigation District
As a party to the QSA, transfers up to 300,000 acre‑feet per year of its water to As a party to the QSA, transfers up to 300,000 acre‑feet per year of its water to
CVWD and SDWA. Helps to fund the mitigation projects required by QSA permits CVWD and SDWA. Helps to fund the mitigation projects required by QSA permits
and implements those projects for the QSA-JPA. One of the largest landowners in and implements those projects for the QSA-JPA. One of the largest landowners in
the region. Delivers Colorado River water to irrigate farmland in the Imperial Val ey the region. Delivers Colorado River water to irrigate farmland in the Imperial Val ey
near the Salton Sea. near the Salton Sea.
Federal-State

Collaboration
Salton Sea Authority Salton Sea Authority
Joint powers authority authorized to restore the Salton Sea in consultation and Joint powers authority authorized to restore the Salton Sea in consultation and
cooperation with the federal government and the State of California. cooperation with the federal government and the State of California.
Source: Adapted from Rachel El ers, Adapted from Rachel El ers, The Salton Sea: A Status Update, California Legislative Analyst’s Office, , California Legislative Analyst’s Office,
August 29, 2018, at https://lao.ca.gov/Publications/Report/3879. August 29, 2018, at https://lao.ca.gov/Publications/Report/3879.
Notes: A A joint powers authority in California is an entity that al ows two or more public agencies to jointly in California is an entity that al ows two or more public agencies to jointly
exercise common powers. These entities are formed by the California state government and are not considered exercise common powers. These entities are formed by the California state government and are not considered
federal entities overseen by Congress. federal entities overseen by Congress.
Role of Congress
California has largely spearheaded restoration of the Salton Sea. Congress has enacted multiple California has largely spearheaded restoration of the Salton Sea. Congress has enacted multiple
bil s to guide federal activities and to provide authorities for federal involvement in the sea’s bil s to guide federal activities and to provide authorities for federal involvement in the sea’s
restoration; however, there is no comprehensive law or authority for federal agencies to restoration; however, there is no comprehensive law or authority for federal agencies to
holistical y address the Salton Sea ecosystem through either a federal initiative or a joint state-holistical y address the Salton Sea ecosystem through either a federal initiative or a joint state-
federal initiative. federal initiative.
Since 1992, the following bil s have been enacted to address Salton Sea restoration: Since 1992, the following bil s have been enacted to address Salton Sea restoration:
 The Reclamation Projects Authorization and Adjustment Act (Title XI, §1101 of  The Reclamation Projects Authorization and Adjustment Act (Title XI, §1101 of
P.L. 102-575) established that restoration of the Salton Sea was of national P.L. 102-575) established that restoration of the Salton Sea was of national
interest and directed the Secretary of the Interior to conduct research on projects interest and directed the Secretary of the Interior to conduct research on projects
to control salinity levels, provide habitat for endangered species, enhance to control salinity levels, provide habitat for endangered species, enhance
fisheries, and protect recreational values in the sea. fisheries, and protect recreational values in the sea.
 The Salton Sea Recovery Act of 1998 (P.L. 105-372) expanded restoration  The Salton Sea Recovery Act of 1998 (P.L. 105-372) expanded restoration
activities in the sea. The act authorized the Secretary of the Interior to conduct activities in the sea. The act authorized the Secretary of the Interior to conduct
feasibility studies of various options for restoring the Salton Sea and studies of feasibility studies of various options for restoring the Salton Sea and studies of
wildlife and species’ responses to the sea’s hydrology and toxicology. The act wildlife and species’ responses to the sea’s hydrology and toxicology. The act
also authorized river reclamation activities for the New and Alamo Rivers also authorized river reclamation activities for the New and Alamo Rivers
(tributaries that flow into the Salton Sea) and provided authority to aid in several (tributaries that flow into the Salton Sea) and provided authority to aid in several
restoration projects administered through the state-funded Salton Sea Authority. restoration projects administered through the state-funded Salton Sea Authority.
 Section 3032 of the Water Resources Development Act of 2007 (P.L. 110-114), as  Section 3032 of the Water Resources Development Act of 2007 (P.L. 110-114), as
amended by Section 1181 of the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the amended by Section 1181 of the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the
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Nation Act (P.L. 114-322) authorized a program for project-specific Salton Sea Nation Act (P.L. 114-322) authorized a program for project-specific Salton Sea
restoration plans and projects consistent with previously published studies to restoration plans and projects consistent with previously published studies to
increase the success of full-scale restoration projects.increase the success of full-scale restoration projects.6957
 The resolution on Salton Sea and Tributaries, Riverside, Imperial, and San Diego  The resolution on Salton Sea and Tributaries, Riverside, Imperial, and San Diego
Counties, California, by the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee Counties, California, by the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee
on April 28, 2016 (Senate Hearing 114-323) authorized USACE to review the on April 28, 2016 (Senate Hearing 114-323) authorized USACE to review the
Chief of Engineers’ reports contained in the preliminary examination report on Chief of Engineers’ reports contained in the preliminary examination report on
flood control for al streams in San Diego and Imperial Counties, CA, flowing flood control for al streams in San Diego and Imperial Counties, CA, flowing
into the Salton Sea, dated July 15, 1943, and other pertinent reports to determine into the Salton Sea, dated July 15, 1943, and other pertinent reports to determine
the advisability of federal participation in providing improvements for flood risk the advisability of federal participation in providing improvements for flood risk
management, ecosystem restoration, and other water- and land-related resources management, ecosystem restoration, and other water- and land-related resources
for the Salton Sea and its vicinity. The examination was to focus on restoration for the Salton Sea and its vicinity. The examination was to focus on restoration
and protection of the environment and on improvements to public health and and protection of the environment and on improvements to public health and
safety for the Salton Sea and tributaries in Riverside, Imperial, and San Diego safety for the Salton Sea and tributaries in Riverside, Imperial, and San Diego
Counties, CA. Counties, CA.
Recent appropriations legislation has provided funding for restoration activities, in particular to Recent appropriations legislation has provided funding for restoration activities, in particular to
Reclamation.Reclamation.7058 From FY2016 to From FY2016 to FY2020FY2021, Congress appropriated $, Congress appropriated $1013.1 mil ion to Reclamation mil ion to Reclamation
specifical y for Salton Sea restoration. (Most of this funding was in addition to the President’s specifical y for Salton Sea restoration. (Most of this funding was in addition to the President’s
annual budget requests. annual budget requests.59))71 Congress has not appropriated funds to USACE Congress has not appropriated funds to USACE to address the Salton Sea, although USACE has , although USACE has
the authority to conduct restoration in the Salton Sea if funding were the authority to conduct restoration in the Salton Sea if funding were to be provided.provided.7260
In the last five fiscal years, Congress has appropriated funds to FWS and the NRCS for In the last five fiscal years, Congress has appropriated funds to FWS and the NRCS for
restoration activities in the Salton Sea. FWS is leading the Red Hil Bay Restoration Project, restoration activities in the Salton Sea. FWS is leading the Red Hil Bay Restoration Project,
which aims to restore 530 acres of wetland habitat for sensitive species. The project is a joint which aims to restore 530 acres of wetland habitat for sensitive species. The project is a joint
effort by FWS and IID. Federal assistance for the Red Hil Bay Restoration Project is from effort by FWS and IID. Federal assistance for the Red Hil Bay Restoration Project is from
funding al ocated to the Sonny Bono Salton Sea Wildlife Refuge. According to FWS, the project funding al ocated to the Sonny Bono Salton Sea Wildlife Refuge. According to FWS, the project
has received approximately $1.0 mil ion and is not yet finished.has received approximately $1.0 mil ion and is not yet finished.7361 NRCS partnered with the NRCS partnered with the
Salton Sea Authority in a Regional Conservation Partnership to provide technical and financial Salton Sea Authority in a Regional Conservation Partnership to provide technical and financial
assistance to farmers in the IID, which is within the Salton Basin. The project assistance to farmers in the IID, which is within the Salton Basin. The project aimsaimed to improve to improve
water quality, reduce poor air quality, improve soils and drought resistance, and conserve species water quality, reduce poor air quality, improve soils and drought resistance, and conserve species
habitat of the sea.habitat of the sea.7462 USDA provided $7.5 mil ion and leveraged $50.6 mil ion from partner- USDA provided $7.5 mil ion and leveraged $50.6 mil ion from partner-
provided funding for the project, which provided funding for the project, which runsran from 2016 to 2020. from 2016 to 2020.
Issues for Congress
Congress might consider several issues related to Salton Sea restoration. For example, Congress Congress might consider several issues related to Salton Sea restoration. For example, Congress
may be interested in the overal level and type of federal involvement in this restoration, the may be interested in the overal level and type of federal involvement in this restoration, the

6957 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), “ Salton Sea Restoration Pilot Projects, CA,” February 2020, at U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), “ Salton Sea Restoration Pilot Projects, CA,” February 2020, at
https://www.spl.usace.army.mil/Portals/17/docs/congressional/Fact_Sheets/PPMD/https://www.spl.usace.army.mil/Portals/17/docs/congressional/Fact_Sheets/PPMD/
SaltonSeaRestorationProjectsFactSheet.pdf?ver=2020-04-27-195654-350. SaltonSeaRestorationProjectsFactSheet.pdf?ver=2020-04-27-195654-350.
7058 Reclamation typically is funded in annual Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies appropriations bills. Reclamation typically is funded in annual Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies appropriations bills.
7159 Work plans describing the distribution of “additional funds” are available at https://www.usbr.gov/budget/. Work plans describing the distribution of “additional funds” are available at https://www.usbr.gov/budget/.
7260 Personal communication with USACE, August 20, 2020. Personal communication with USACE, August 20, 2020.
7361 Personal communication with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, August 28, 2020. Personal communication with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, August 28, 2020.
74 62 Natural Resources Conservation Service, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Salton Sea Water Quality, Air Quality and Agricultural Wetlands, August , August
24, 2020, at https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/ca/programs/farmbill/rcpp/?cid=nrcseprd1304025. 24, 2020, at https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/ca/programs/farmbill/rcpp/?cid=nrcseprd1304025.
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extent of collaboration with the State of California, and any potential federal efforts to mitigate extent of collaboration with the State of California, and any potential federal efforts to mitigate
the health effects of airborne toxins due to exposed playa. the health effects of airborne toxins due to exposed playa.
Level of Federal Involvement in Restoration
Recent federal involvement in restoring the Salton Sea is largely limited to selected efforts to Recent federal involvement in restoring the Salton Sea is largely limited to selected efforts to
complement the SSMP, including restoration activities on federal lands such as the Sonny Bono complement the SSMP, including restoration activities on federal lands such as the Sonny Bono
Salton Sea Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge. Some policymakers contend that federal resources for restoring the Wildlife Refuge. Some policymakers contend that federal resources for restoring the
Salton Sea should increase Salton Sea should increase due to significant federal ownership of land in and aroundto restore the sea. the sea.75
63 Others support greater federal Others support greater federal involvement in restoration because they believe the federal involvement in restoration because they believe the federal
government has a responsibility to help restore the ecosystem for fish and wildlife and government has a responsibility to help restore the ecosystem for fish and wildlife and to reduce the reduce the
threat of airborne pollutants.threat of airborne pollutants.7664 In contrast, some policymakers contend the Salton Sea is In contrast, some policymakers contend the Salton Sea is
artificially artificially maintained through runoff andmaintained through runoff and, therefore, the federal government should use its limited resources the federal government should use its limited resources
for other priorities, such as fighting forest fires.for other priorities, such as fighting forest fires.7765 These policymakers and other stakeholders also These policymakers and other stakeholders also
contend contend that the State of California should bear the primary responsibility for restoring the Salton Sea, the State of California should bear the primary responsibility for restoring the Salton Sea,
per its commitment per its commitment under the QSA.under the QSA.7866
Congress has appropriated steady funding for restoring the Salton Sea in recent years. Some in Congress has appropriated steady funding for restoring the Salton Sea in recent years. Some in
Congress proposed increased federal involvement in restoration of the sea in report language in Congress proposed increased federal involvement in restoration of the sea in report language in
the form of newly authorized restoration projects and studies; however, most of these requests the form of newly authorized restoration projects and studies; however, most of these requests
have not been enacted.have not been enacted.79 In bil language in the 116th67 In the 117th Congress, H.R. 3877, the Salton Sea Projects Improvement Act, would authorize $250 mil ion for Reclamation to implement projects in and around the Salton Sea to suppress dust, improve water quality, and restore fish and wildlife habitat. Under the legislation, Reclamation could carry out authorized projects as grants, cooperative agreements, and contracts in cooperation with a number of state and local government entities and nonprofits. Other legislation, such as H.R. 491, looks to improve conditions in tributaries to the sea and thus could have an impact on the sea’s long-term ecological health. Congress, H.R. 7575 would direct USACE
to carry out a study to evaluate the feasibility of constructing a perimeter lake in the sea to restore
habitat and reduce exposed playa.80
Other proposals also might require an increased federal role. For example, Other proposals also might require an increased federal role. For example, thean IID-proposed plan IID-proposed plan
to use a portion of revenues from geothermal energy and mineral recovery projects to fund Salton to use a portion of revenues from geothermal energy and mineral recovery projects to fund Salton
Sea restoration and to reduce dust emissions from the sea likely would involve increased federal Sea restoration and to reduce dust emissions from the sea likely would involve increased federal
support.support.8168 The plan would involve a collaboration between the IID, the federal government, and The plan would involve a collaboration between the IID, the federal government, and
other stakeholders. It is unclear what new authorities, if any, this plan would require. other stakeholders. It is unclear what new authorities, if any, this plan would require.
Collaboration with the State of California
Some collaboration has occurred between the federal government and the state to restore the Some collaboration has occurred between the federal government and the state to restore the
Salton Sea. In 2016, DOI signed an MOU with the State of California and other nonfederal Salton Sea. In 2016, DOI signed an MOU with the State of California and other nonfederal
entities to participate in efforts to restore 25,000 acres of dry lake bed and to implement the entities to participate in efforts to restore 25,000 acres of dry lake bed and to implement the
SSMP.82 The MOU also included commitments to coordinate on implementing projects that aim
to improve air and water quality, fish and wildlife habitat, water security, existing obligations

75 T estimony of Wade Crowfoot .
76 Statement of Hon. Jared Huffman.
77 63 Congressional Hearing, Restore Salton Sea, 2020, comments by Rep. Raul Ruiz. 64 T estimony of Wade Crowfoot . 65 Statement of Hon. T om McClintock. Statement of Hon. T om McClintock.
7866 Statement of Hon. T om McClintock. Statement of Hon. T om McClintock.
7967 In its FY2021 Energy and Water Development Appropriations report ( H.Rept. 116-449, accompanying H.R. 7613), In its FY2021 Energy and Water Development Appropriations report ( H.Rept. 116-449, accompanying H.R. 7613),
the House Appropriations Committee encouraged USACE to be an active participant in restoration, the House Appropriations Committee encouraged USACE to be an active participant in restoration, includingincludi ng efforts to efforts to
implement the California Natural Resources Agency’s SSMP. implement the California Natural Resources Agency’s SSMP.
80 Section 203 of H.R. 7575. T he perimeter lake approach to restoration consists of creating water bodies and habitat
along portions of the perimeter of the Salton Sea to reduce playa exposure and improve habitat for fish and wildlife.
8168 IID, IID, Unlocking the Salton Sea’s Renewable Energy Potential, May 12, 2016, at https://www.iid.com/home/, May 12, 2016, at https://www.iid.com/home/
showdocument?id=8599 and Congressional Hearing, showdocument?id=8599 and Congressional Hearing, Restore Salton Sea, 2020, 2020.
82 2016 MOU. .
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SSMP.69 The MOU also included commitments to coordinate on implementing projects that aim to improve air and water quality, fish and wildlife habitat, water security, existing obligations with American Indian communities, and resource management decisions. This MOU was with American Indian communities, and resource management decisions. This MOU was
preceded by an MOU between DOI and the Salton Sea Authority in 2014 for collaboration on preceded by an MOU between DOI and the Salton Sea Authority in 2014 for collaboration on
scientific and technical information related to the sea. scientific and technical information related to the sea.8370
Some argue that the federal government should increase collaboration with the State of California Some argue that the federal government should increase collaboration with the State of California
to implement the SSMP. Among other things, this collaboration might involve additional to implement the SSMP. Among other things, this collaboration might involve additional
commitments related to the SSMP and a clearer indication of what direction the federal commitments related to the SSMP and a clearer indication of what direction the federal
government plans to take in regard to future implementation. government plans to take in regard to future implementation.8471
Congress might consider options in other restoration initiatives to increase collaboration between Congress might consider options in other restoration initiatives to increase collaboration between
the federal government and the state. One option may be to authorize an intergovernmental task the federal government and the state. One option may be to authorize an intergovernmental task
force to streamline coordinated restoration efforts among federal and state agencies and to force to streamline coordinated restoration efforts among federal and state agencies and to
organize federal efforts to restore the Salton Sea; similar task forces and advisory bodies exist for organize federal efforts to restore the Salton Sea; similar task forces and advisory bodies exist for
restoration initiatives in the Chesapeake Bay, Great Lakes, Everglades, and Lake Tahoe. Some restoration initiatives in the Chesapeake Bay, Great Lakes, Everglades, and Lake Tahoe. Some
policymakers might policymakers might resistoppose this option because of lower levels of federal investment in restoration this option because of lower levels of federal investment in restoration
relative to state levels, arguing there might not be enough activities to justify a task relative to state levels, arguing there might not be enough activities to justify a task force or a force or a
federal-state group. Other stakeholders might support directing federal agencies to collaborate federal-state group. Other stakeholders might support directing federal agencies to collaborate
with the state in restoration activities. For example, in report language to accompany proposed with the state in restoration activities. For example, in report language to accompany proposed
FY2021 appropriations legislation, the House Committee on Appropriations directs FY2021 appropriations legislation, the House Committee on Appropriations directs USACE USACE and and
Reclamation to partner with federal, state, and local agencies to support Salton Sea restoration Reclamation to partner with federal, state, and local agencies to support Salton Sea restoration
and implement the SSMP.and implement the SSMP.8572 This report language would also direct the USACE to focus on This report language would also direct the USACE to focus on
specific projects that take a multi-agency approach to improving habitat and water specific projects that take a multi-agency approach to improving habitat and water quality and quality and
increasing public health benefits.increasing public health benefits.8673
Potential Effects of Airborne Pollution from the Salton Sea
Some stakeholders are concerned about the effects on human health of airborne pollution from Some stakeholders are concerned about the effects on human health of airborne pollution from
exposed playa. These stakeholders might look to Congress to address the issue. Reclamation exposed playa. These stakeholders might look to Congress to address the issue. Reclamation
noted that approximately 8.75 square miles of noted that approximately 8.75 square miles of submerged Reclamation lands under the Salton Sea could be Reclamation lands under the Salton Sea could be
exposed to the air in the next 10 years as the sea recedes, which might lead to significant exposed to the air in the next 10 years as the sea recedes, which might lead to significant air quality air
quality mitigation costs under the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.).mitigation costs under the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.).8774 In its FY2021 In its FY2021 budget budget
justification, Reclamation compared the sort of mitigation efforts that may be required in the justification, Reclamation compared the sort of mitigation efforts that may be required in the
Salton Sea to existing efforts under the Great Basin Unified Air Pollution Control District’s Salton Sea to existing efforts under the Great Basin Unified Air Pollution Control District’s
Owens Lake Air Quality Mitigation Program.88 This program is conducting compliance actions
under the Clean Air Act and reports that air quality mitigation for exposed lake beds costs

83 69 2016 MOU. 70 Department of the Interior (DOI), “Department of the Interior and Salton Sea Authority Sign Joint Memorandum of Department of the Interior (DOI), “Department of the Interior and Salton Sea Authority Sign Joint Memorandum of
Understanding,” press release, March 4, 2014, at https://www.doi.gov/news/pressreleases/department-of-the-interior-Understanding,” press release, March 4, 2014, at https://www.doi.gov/news/pressreleases/department-of-the-interior-
and-salton-sea-authority-sign-joint-memorandum-of-understanding. and-salton-sea-authority-sign-joint-memorandum-of-understanding.
84 71 For example, see testimony of Joaquin Esquivel, Chair, California For example, see testimony of Joaquin Esquivel, Chair, California St ateState Water Resources Control Board, in U.S. Water Resources Control Board, in U.S.
Congress, House Committee on Natural Resources, Subcommittee on Water, Oceans, and Wildlife, Congress, House Committee on Natural Resources, Subcommittee on Water, Oceans, and Wildlife, Efforts to Restore
the Salton Sea, 116th Cong., 2nd sess., September 24, 2020. , 116th Cong., 2nd sess., September 24, 2020.
8572 House Appropriations Committee, Report on FY2021 Energy and Water Development Appropriations, H.Rept. 116- House Appropriations Committee, Report on FY2021 Energy and Water Development Appropriations, H.Rept. 116-
449, accompanying H.R. 7613. 449, accompanying H.R. 7613.
86 73 House Appropriations Committee, Report on FY2021 Energy and Water Appropriations, H.Rept. 116-449, House Appropriations Committee, Report on FY2021 Energy and Water Appropriations, H.Rept. 116-449,
accompanying H.R. 7613. accompanying H.R. 7613.
8774 DOI, Bureau of Reclamation, DOI, Bureau of Reclamation, Budget Justification and Performance Information FY2021, Bureau of Reclamation , ,
2020, at https://www.usbr.gov/budget/2021/FY_2021_Budget_Justifications.pdf. Hereinafter, Reclamation2020, at https://www.usbr.gov/budget/2021/FY_2021_Budget_Justifications.pdf. Hereinafter, Reclamation, 2021
Budget Justification. .
88 For more information on the Great Basin Unified Air Pollution Control District’s Owens Lake Air Quality Mitigation
Program, see https://www.gbuapcd.org/.
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Congressional Research Service 19 Salton Sea Restoration Owens Lake Air Quality Mitigation Program.75 That program is conducting compliance actions under the Clean Air Act and reports that air quality mitigation for exposed lake beds costs approximately $38.0 mil ion per square mile (averaged over al types of mitigation), with annual approximately $38.0 mil ion per square mile (averaged over al types of mitigation), with annual
maintenance costs of approximately $500,000 per square mile. maintenance costs of approximately $500,000 per square mile.89
Concluding Remarks76 Conclusion
In the future, Congress may be asked by various stakeholders to make additional commitments to In the future, Congress may be asked by various stakeholders to make additional commitments to
Salton Sea restoration, potential y in the form of additional appropriations to one or more federal Salton Sea restoration, potential y in the form of additional appropriations to one or more federal
agencies to supplement or match state expenditures on the SSMP or specific directives related to agencies to supplement or match state expenditures on the SSMP or specific directives related to
federal restoration efforts. Some prior commitments, such as those in DOI’s 2016 MOU with the federal restoration efforts. Some prior commitments, such as those in DOI’s 2016 MOU with the
State of California, may not be fully realized without additional funding and authorities from State of California, may not be fully realized without additional funding and authorities from
Congress. However, the extent to which this is the case remains unclear. Congress. However, the extent to which this is the case remains unclear.
Congress may be interested in Congress may be interested in answers to several questions related to Salton Sea restoration and the effects several questions related to Salton Sea restoration and the effects
of Salton Sea ecosystem degradation on environmental contaminants and human of Salton Sea ecosystem degradation on environmental contaminants and human health. These health. These
questions may include the following: questions may include the following:
 What are the effects of exposed playa on air quality and, consequently, on human  What are the effects of exposed playa on air quality and, consequently, on human
health in the region? What is the federal responsibility for mitigating these health in the region? What is the federal responsibility for mitigating these
effects? effects?
 How do decisions related to water  How do decisions related to water supply and deliveriesmanagement in the Colorado River in the Colorado River
Basin Basin affect the health of the Salton Sea ecosystem? affect the health of the Salton Sea ecosystem?
 What is the preferred federal role in implementing the SSMP? Does the project  What is the preferred federal role in implementing the SSMP? Does the project
require additional funding, authorities, or other congressional direction? require additional funding, authorities, or other congressional direction?
 What are the cost, content, and duration of long-term restoration plans currently  What are the cost, content, and duration of long-term restoration plans currently
under way in the SSMP? How wil these plans restore the Salton Sea ecosystem, under way in the SSMP? How wil these plans restore the Salton Sea ecosystem,
mitigate the effects of exposed playa, and conserve species? mitigate the effects of exposed playa, and conserve species?

8975 For more information on the Great Basin Unified Air Pollution Con trol District’s Owens Lake Air Quality Mitigation Program, see https://www.gbuapcd.org/. 76 “Lower Colorado Basin” in Reclamation “Lower Colorado Basin” in Reclamation, 2021 Budget Justification, 2020, p. 41. , 2020, p. 41.
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Appendix. Chronology of Events in the Salton Sea
Chronology of Selected Historical Events Related to the Salton Sea
Year
Historical Event
10,000 BC 10,000 BC
Native Americans first occupy the Salton Basin. Native Americans first occupy the Salton Basin.
AD 700 AD 700
Lake Cahuil a is formed in the Salton Basin and proceeds to dry out and fil up four times. Lake Cahuil a is formed in the Salton Basin and proceeds to dry out and fil up four times.
1500 (approx.) Large inflow of water fil s the Salton Basin from the Gulf of California. It is 26 times the size of 1500 (approx.) Large inflow of water fil s the Salton Basin from the Gulf of California. It is 26 times the size of
the Salton Sea. the Salton Sea.
1600 1600
Salton Basin dries out. Salton Basin dries out.
1840–1870 1840–1870
Flooding from the Colorado River is recorded in the Salton Basin. Flooding from the Colorado River is recorded in the Salton Basin.
1876 1876
U.S. government establishes the Torres-Martinez Desert Cahuil a Indian Reservation with a U.S. government establishes the Torres-Martinez Desert Cahuil a Indian Reservation with a
grant of 640 acres. grant of 640 acres.
1891 1891
20,000 acres of land on the northern side of the Salton Basin provided to the Torres-Martinez 20,000 acres of land on the northern side of the Salton Basin provided to the Torres-Martinez
Band of Desert Cahuil a Indians. Band of Desert Cahuil a Indians.
1901 1901
Imperial Canal brings water from the Colorado River to the Imperial Val ey. Imperial Canal brings water from the Colorado River to the Imperial Val ey.
1905 1905
The Salton Sea is created in the basin by a levee break in the Colorado River. The Salton Sea is created in the basin by a levee break in the Colorado River.
1909 1909
The U.S. government reserves in trust nearly 10,000 acres of land under the Salton Sea for the The U.S. government reserves in trust nearly 10,000 acres of land under the Salton Sea for the
benefit of the Torres-Martinez Indians. benefit of the Torres-Martinez Indians.
1924 1924
President Calvin Coolidge issues Public Water Reserve Orders 90 (issued in 1924) and 114 President Calvin Coolidge issues Public Water Reserve Orders 90 (issued in 1924) and 114
(issued in 1928) setting aside lands under the Salton Sea as a permanent drainage reservoir for (issued in 1928) setting aside lands under the Salton Sea as a permanent drainage reservoir for
agricultural and surface water runoff from the Imperial and Coachel a Val eys. agricultural and surface water runoff from the Imperial and Coachel a Val eys.
1928 1928
Boulder Canyon Project Act (P.L. 70-642) authorizes the construction of the Boulder Dam and Boulder Canyon Project Act (P.L. 70-642) authorizes the construction of the Boulder Dam and
the Al American Canal (expected to control the Colorado River and stop flooding). the Al American Canal (expected to control the Colorado River and stop flooding).
1930 1930
Salton Sea Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge established. It covers an area of 35,000 acres. Due to flooding and a Wildlife Refuge established. It covers an area of 35,000 acres. Due to flooding and a
rise rise in sea levelin sea level since 1930, only 2,000 acres remainsince 1930, only 2,000 acres remain uncovered by salty water. The refuge was uncovered by salty water. The refuge was
renamed to Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge in 1998. renamed to Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge in 1998.
1967 1967
The The yumaYuma clapper rail clapper rail is listed as an endangered species in the United States. Its range includes is listed as an endangered species in the United States. Its range includes
the Salton Sea. the Salton Sea.
1969 1969
A federal-state reconnaissance investigation studies water quality problems in the Salton Sea. A federal-state reconnaissance investigation studies water quality problems in the Salton Sea.
Based on this study, a feasibility study of management plans was authorized in 1972. Based on this study, a feasibility study of management plans was authorized in 1972.
1970 1970
The brown pelican is listed as an endangered species. Its range includes the Salton Sea. (In 1985, The brown pelican is listed as an endangered species. Its range includes the Salton Sea. (In 1985,
the species was delisted in the East, but it is stil being monitored.) the species was delisted in the East, but it is stil being monitored.)
1974 1974
Federal-state feasibility study, which provided alternatives for lowering the salinity and Federal-state feasibility study, which provided alternatives for lowering the salinity and
maintaining water levels in the Salton Sea, is completed. maintaining water levels in the Salton Sea, is completed.
1986 1986
The desert pupfish is listed as a federal y endangered species in its entire range, which includes The desert pupfish is listed as a federal y endangered species in its entire range, which includes
the Salton Sea. the Salton Sea.
1992 1992
150,000 eared grebes die, garnering national attention for the Salton Sea. Cause of their deaths 150,000 eared grebes die, garnering national attention for the Salton Sea. Cause of their deaths
is unknown. is unknown.
Title XI of the Reclamation Projects Authorization and Adjustment Act of 1992 ( P.L. 102-575) Title XI of the Reclamation Projects Authorization and Adjustment Act of 1992 ( P.L. 102-575)
authorizes Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation) to conduct research on methods to control authorizes Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation) to conduct research on methods to control
salinity levels, provide habitat to endangered species, enhance fisheries, and protect recreational salinity levels, provide habitat to endangered species, enhance fisheries, and protect recreational
values of the Salton Sea. A total of $10 mil ion is authorized for this effort. values of the Salton Sea. A total of $10 mil ion is authorized for this effort.
1993 1993
The Salton Sea Authority is formed among Riverside and Imperial Counties and the Coachel a The Salton Sea Authority is formed among Riverside and Imperial Counties and the Coachel a
Val ey Water and Imperial Irrigation Districts. The goal is to coordinate activities that relate to Val ey Water and Imperial Irrigation Districts. The goal is to coordinate activities that relate to
improving water quality, stabilizing water levels, and enhancing economic and recreational improving water quality, stabilizing water levels, and enhancing economic and recreational
activities in and around the Salton Sea. activities in and around the Salton Sea.
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Salton Sea Restoration

Year
Historical Event
1998 1998
The Salton Sea Reclamation Act of 1998 (P.L. 105-372) authorizes the Secretary of the Interior The Salton Sea Reclamation Act of 1998 (P.L. 105-372) authorizes the Secretary of the Interior
to complete studies of management options to al ow the use of the Salton Sea to continue and to complete studies of management options to al ow the use of the Salton Sea to continue and
to stabilize salinity and surface elevation, asto stabilize salinity and surface elevation, as wel aswel as to maintain fish and wildlife populations and to maintain fish and wildlife populations and
enhance the potential for recreation and economic development. enhance the potential for recreation and economic development.
1999 1999
Water Resources Development Act of 1999 (P.L. 106-53) authorizes the Secretary of the Army Water Resources Development Act of 1999 (P.L. 106-53) authorizes the Secretary of the Army
to provide technical assistance to federal, state, and local agencies to implement restoration to provide technical assistance to federal, state, and local agencies to implement restoration
measures in the Salton Sea and to determine a plan in which the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers measures in the Salton Sea and to determine a plan in which the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
could assist others in restoring the sea. could assist others in restoring the sea.
2000 2000
The Department of the Interior (DOI) submits a draft environmental impact The Department of the Interior (DOI) submits a draft environmental impact
statement/environmental impact report and a strategic science plan for restoring the Salton Sea. statement/environmental impact report and a strategic science plan for restoring the Salton Sea.
DOI establishes the U. S. Geological Survey (USGS) Salton Sea Science Office to provide DOI establishes the U. S. Geological Survey (USGS) Salton Sea Science Office to provide
continuity of the science effort, effectiveness of science undertaken in support of the restoration continuity of the science effort, effectiveness of science undertaken in support of the restoration
project, and efficiency of operations in serving management needs. (In FY2016, the office was project, and efficiency of operations in serving management needs. (In FY2016, the office was
closed and its function was consolidated with the DOI Region 8 USGS Regional Office in closed and its function was consolidated with the DOI Region 8 USGS Regional Office in
Sacramento.) Sacramento.)
Title VI of the Torres-Martinez Settlement Act (P.L. 106-568) provides compensation to the Title VI of the Torres-Martinez Settlement Act (P.L. 106-568) provides compensation to the
Torres-Martinez Desert Torres-Martinez Desert CahuilaCahuil a Indians for their submerged Indians for their submerged land. A total of $14 mil ion was land. A total of $14 mil ion was
authorized, $10 mil ion from the federal government and $4 mil ion from water districts. authorized, $10 mil ion from the federal government and $4 mil ion from water districts.
2003 2003
Quantitative Settlement Agreement is finalized, requiring California to reduce its use of Colorado River water to 4.4 mil ion acre-feet per year, as required in the Law of the River. Implementation of the agreement required, among other things, long-term water transfers that indirectly reduced long-term irrigation runoff into the sea. Reclamation submits the Reclamation submits the Salton Sea Study Status Report, which contains various proposals for the , which contains various proposals for the
ful or partial restoration of the sea. ful or partial restoration of the sea.
2004 2004
Water Supply, Reliability, and Environmental Improvement Act (P.L. 108-361) requires the Water Supply, Reliability, and Environmental Improvement Act (P.L. 108-361) requires the
Secretary of the Interior to complete a feasibility study on a preferred alternative for Salton Sea Secretary of the Interior to complete a feasibility study on a preferred alternative for Salton Sea
restoration. restoration.
2006 2006
Reclamation and the USGS construct shal ow habitat pools on the southern end of the Salton Reclamation and the USGS construct shal ow habitat pools on the southern end of the Salton
Sea. Sea.
2007 2007
Water Resources Development Act of 2007 (P.L. 110-114) authorizes $30 mil ion for Salton Sea Water Resources Development Act of 2007 (P.L. 110-114) authorizes $30 mil ion for Salton Sea
restoration pilot projects. restoration pilot projects.

Reclamation and DOI release Reclamation and DOI release Restoration of the Salton Sea.
2013 2013
USACE, in conjunction with state agencies, releases final environmental impact USACE, in conjunction with state agencies, releases final environmental impact
report/environmental impact statement for the Salton Sea Species Conservation Project. report/environmental impact statement for the Salton Sea Species Conservation Project.
2015 2015
Salton Sea Restoration and Renewable Energy Initiative proposed by Imperial Irrigation District. Salton Sea Restoration and Renewable Energy Initiative proposed by Imperial Irrigation District.
Described design concepts for restoration, air quality mitigation, geothermal development, and Described design concepts for restoration, air quality mitigation, geothermal development, and
other renewable energy technologies. other renewable energy technologies.
2016 2016
DOI signs a memorandum of understanding with the State of California agreeing to participate DOI signs a memorandum of understanding with the State of California agreeing to participate
in Salton Sea restoration efforts. in Salton Sea restoration efforts.
2016 2016
Senate resolution on Salton Sea and Tributaries, Riverside, Imperial, and San Diego Counties, Senate resolution on Salton Sea and Tributaries, Riverside, Imperial, and San Diego Counties,
California, by the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, authorizes USACE to California, by the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, authorizes USACE to
review the Chief of Engineers’ reports on flood control for al streams in the San Diego and review the Chief of Engineers’ reports on flood control for al streams in the San Diego and
Imperial Counties, CA, flowing into the Salton Sea, along with other pertinent reports, to Imperial Counties, CA, flowing into the Salton Sea, along with other pertinent reports, to
determine the advisability of federal participation in providing improvements for flood risk determine the advisability of federal participation in providing improvements for flood risk
management, ecosystem restoration, and other water- and land-related resources for the Salton management, ecosystem restoration, and other water- and land-related resources for the Salton
Sea and its vicinity. Sea and its vicinity.
USACE is authorized to conduct ecosystem restoration in the Salton Sea through §3032 of P.L. USACE is authorized to conduct ecosystem restoration in the Salton Sea through §3032 of P.L.
110-114, as amended. USACE is authorized to implement project-specific restoration plans and 110-114, as amended. USACE is authorized to implement project-specific restoration plans and
projects consistent with previously published studies to restore the Salton Sea. projects consistent with previously published studies to restore the Salton Sea.
Congressional Research Service 22 Salton Sea Restoration 2017 2017
State of California releases the Salton Sea Management Program (SSMP), a comprehensive, State of California releases the Salton Sea Management Program (SSMP), a comprehensive,
multiphase restoration plan for the Salton Sea. multiphase restoration plan for the Salton Sea.
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Salton Sea Restoration

2019 2019
Colorado River Drought Contingency Plan Authorization Act (P.L. 116-114) passes. Colorado River Drought Contingency Plan Authorization Act (P.L. 116-114) passes.
Reclamation and the Colorado River Basin states finalize drought contingency plans (DCPs) for Reclamation and the Colorado River Basin states finalize drought contingency plans (DCPs) for
the Upper and Lower Colorado River Basins. The DCPs include commitments to curtail water the Upper and Lower Colorado River Basins. The DCPs include commitments to curtail water
deliveries under some scenarios, including, for the first time, cutbacks to California’s deliveries if deliveries under some scenarios, including, for the first time, cutbacks to California’s deliveries if
Lake Mead water levels drop below a certain elevation. Lake Mead water levels drop below a certain elevation.

Author Information

Pervaze A. Sheikh Pervaze A. Sheikh
Charles V. Stern Charles V. Stern
Specialist in Natural Resources Policy Specialist in Natural Resources Policy
Specialist in Natural Resources Policy Specialist in Natural Resources Policy




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