Use of Pipelines in the California Water Project

The construction of a major water supply system necessarily involves a combination of open canals, aqueducts, and closed pipelines. The type of transportation facility selected is determined by the study of pertinent factors reviewed on an economic base. Cost studies evaluate materials, rights-of-way, water loss, and operation and maintenance. Other factors that must be considered are terrain, area development characteristics, and protection of water quality. The manner in which these factors have been considered in the design of the California State Water Project, with 24% of its 670-mile system in pipelines, is presented. Special attention is given to the seismic problems encountered in a state blanketed with earthquake faults, many of which are currently classed as active faults.