Auburn Dam Project
Auburn Dam Watch is an effort to provide accurate, up-to-date information about the social and environmental issues that shape the debate over constructing the Auburn Dam.
Spear-headed by All Outdoors California Whitewater Rafting, contributions include input from local scientists and environmental groups concerned with the well-being of California’s resources and people.
THE LATEST NEWS:
Auburn Dam Cost Study Assigns a Price Tag in Exceedence of 6 Billion Dollars
Auburn Dam the Focus of Recent Congressional Panel
Auburn Dam Is Not The Answer
The debate over the Auburn Dam can be divided into three main areas of concern: Public Safety, Water and Power Supply, and Recreation.
All of these concerns can be addressed with alternatives that are less costly, more efficient, and environmentally sustainable:
Public Safety Is Better-Served By Focusing First on Folsom Modifications and Levee Repairs
Considering the earthquake threat posed by Auburn Dam, as well as the fact that Folsom Dam modifications and levee repairs are cheaper, faster-built and sufficient for any reasonably-expected future flood, public safety is better-served by focusing on these immediate concerns.
Demand for Water and Power Can Be Met with Friendlier, Cost-Effective Alternatives
Building new facilities and infrastructure is the most inefficient way of handling water and power supply issues. Inexpensive legislation, policy shifts, and farming techniques could decrease demand in 2030 by 8.5 million acre feet per year!
Auburn Dam Would Result in the Loss of a Valuable Recreational Resource
The American River canyons currently provide a recreation outlet for close to one million visitors per year. A dam at Auburn would significantly change the quality and type of recreation opportunities available.