Friday January 23, 2026
CDWR —
On the waters of Northern California, just off of Shasta Reservoir, a bold four-year pilot study is wrapping up that could help change the future for one of the state’s most endangered species: winter-run Chinook salmon. Led by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR), with support from state, federal, and Tribal partners, this effort aims to give this species a fighting chance to complete their life cycle and reconnect to the habitat they need to survive.
Shasta Reservoir serves as an important piece of water infrastructure, providing essential water supply and flood control for the region. However, the construction of Shasta and Keswick dams blocked access to historical high-elevation, cold-water habitats that are vital for native fish populations, such as winter-run Chinook salmon. Today, these populations face significant challenges, emphasizing the need for continued investment in cold-water solutions so that the species can survive in the Sacramento River watershed as the climate warms.