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Show __3__ The water supply of the coastal belt of Southern California is affected by cycles of wet and dry periods, periods of 10 to 12 years, in which the average rainfall and stream flow are below normal, followed by periods of the same duration, in which they rise above normal. Owing to increase of population, even average water conditions will leave a shortage of supply in a few years. To meet this situation, the cities of that region have been investigating possible sources of additional water supply. These investigations have shown that about 1,500 second-feet of water for domestic purposes only will be required for these communities, and that the only possible source is the Colorado River. Plans are being formulated to go to that river for such supply. Naturally, the city of Los Angeles, because of its size and wealth has taken the lead. That city has by an overwhelming vote recently authorized a bond issue of $2,000,000 for preliminary investigation and construction. Plans for obtaining water from the Colorado River for southern California cities contemplate an aqueduct about 260 miles in length, and taking water from the river near the town of Blythe, Calif., which is about 150 miles below Boulder Canyon. This aqueduct will cost, according to preliminary estimates, about $150,000,000. Water will have to be lifted by pumping about 1,400 feet in order to surmount an intervening mountain range. It is proposed to organize a public district embracing Los Angeles, Pasadena, Glendale, and other interested communities to carry through this domestic water project. This district will require for pumping purposes, a large block of electrical energy, amounting, when the aqueduct is operated to full capacity, to possibly 250,000 horsepower, thus adding materially to the market for power from the dam. |
Source |
Original book: [State of Arizona, complainant v. State of California, Palo Verde Irrigation District, Coachella Valley County Water District, Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, City of Los Angeles, California, City of San Diego, California, and County of San Diego, California, defendants, United States of America, State of Nevada, State of New Mexico, State of Utah, interveners] : California exhibits. |