News Release Archive

Reclamation Releases Draft Environmental Documents on Extending Water Transfer Program between CVP Contractors in Friant Division

Media Contact: Pete Lucero, 916-978-5100 TTY 916-978-5608 , plucero@usbr.gov
Michael Inthavong, 559-487-5138 TTY 800-735-2929, minthavong@usbr.gov

For Release: December 30, 2010

The Bureau of Reclamation today released for public review a Draft Environmental Assessment and Finding of No Significant Impact for continuation of an Accelerated Water Transfer Program that has allowed water transfers and exchanges between Central Valley Project Friant Division and Cross Valley contractors since 1996.  The Central Valley Project Improvement Act of 1992 authorizes accelerated water transfer programs.

The Draft Environmental Assessment/Finding Of No Significant Impact (DRAFT EA/FONSI) addresses extension of the proposed Accelerated Water Transfer Program (AWTP) from March 1, 2011 through February 29, 2016.  It also analyzes federal wildlife refuges receiving CVP water from contractors participating in the AWTP. Total annual water transfers and exchanges would be limited to 255,000 acre-feet for actions between CVP Friant Division contractors and transfers from Friant Division contractors to Cross Valley contractors. 

The Draft EA/FONSI was prepared in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act and is available online.  If you encounter problems accessing the documents online, please call 916-978-5100 or e-mail mpPublicAffairs@usbr.gov.

Written comments must be received by close of business Monday, January 31, 2011, and should be sent to Michael Inthavong, Bureau of Reclamation, South-Central California Area Office, 1243 N Street, Fresno CA 93721.  Comments may also be faxed to Mr. Inthavong at 559-487-5397 or e-mailed to minthavong@usbr.gov.

For additional information or to request a copy of the Draft EA/FONSI, please contact Mr. Inthavong at 559-487-5138, TTY 800-735-2929.  Copies of the draft documents may also be viewed at Reclamation's Fresno office at the above address.

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The Bureau of Reclamation is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior and is the nation's largest wholesale water supplier and second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Our facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation opportunities, and environmental benefits. Visit our website at https://www.usbr.gov and follow us on Twitter @USBR; Facebook @bureau.of.reclamation; LinkedIn @Bureau of Reclamation; Instagram @bureau_of_reclamation; and YouTube @reclamation.

Relevant Link:

NEPA Document