Sites Reservoir clears major hurdle with state water permit

California water regulators unanimously approved a water rights permit for the proposed Sites Reservoir, a project in Colusa and Glenn counties that could store up to 1.5 million acre feet of water.

Colusa County welcomed the State Water Resources Control Board’s decision and said the additional storage could help improve water reliability during drought and support the region’s agricultural communities. The county said the permit follows years of planning among local, regional and state partners.

Additional work remains before construction can begin. Colusa County said it will continue working with the Sites Project Authority, state agencies and regional partners as the project moves forward.