Reclamation, in coordination with DWR, is working in partnership with local agencies to investigate the enlargement of Shasta Dam and Reservoir to increase the cold water available for maintaining lower Sacramento River temperatures and improve water supply reliability for other beneficial uses.

Raising Shasta Dam 6.5 feet would inundate up to an estimated additional 1,420 lineal feet of the lower McCloud River. For a dam raise of 18.5 feet, up to an estimated additional 3,480 feet of the lower McCloud River would be inundated. The McCloud River is an area of specific interest. California Public Resources Code 5093.542(c) restricts state participation in studies to enlarge Shasta Dam and Reservoir if that action could have an adverse effect on the free-flowing conditions of the McCloud River or its wild trout fisheries. The Investigation and other state and federal agencies, are studying project alternatives, project benefits, potential adverse effects, and mitigation strategies.

DWR has stopped work on the Shasta Lake Water Resources Investiagtion since July 2005 due to lack of funding. Reclamation is the federal lead agency for the project and is preparing an environmental impact statement and a feasibilty study report.

Planning Objectives

• Increase water supplies and water supply reliability for agricultural, M&I, and environmental purposes
• Increase survival of anadromous fish populations in the upper Sacramento River
• To the extent possible, Shasta Lake enlargement will include opportunities to help restore ecosystem in the Shasta Lake area and along the upper Sacramento River, reduce flood damages along the Sacramento River, develop additional hydropower capabilities at Shasta Dam, and increase recreational opportunities at Shasta Lake.