Ground has been broken on a project that expands the restoration work at the Salton Sea.

The project is expected to add 750 acres to the project that enhances wildlife habitat, protect public health and improve water quality at the Sea. The project has been bolstered by $250 million committed by the federal government and additional funds promised by the State of California. The federal money allows the expansion of the Species Conservation Habitat Project at the southern end of the Salton Sea. The project will create a network of ponds and wetlands to improve the habitat for fish and birds and reduce dust in the area that impacts air quality. The project as currently envisioned will cover nearly 5,000 acres. The Salton Sea, the largest inland body of water in California, has shrunk in recent years because of reduced inflows. As water levels have dropped, dry lakebed has been exposed releasing dust that affects air quality in the Imperial Valley. 

Imperial Irrigation District Vice Chairman JB Hamby said, " This is about much more than dollars and acres. This is about protecting our environment, our air, and our water for Imperial Valley, California , and the Colorado River. After years of delay, we are finally seeing real action." Hamby is also Chairman of the Colorado River Board of California. IID's role as the largest conservation partner in the Lower Basin Plan to conserve 3-million-acre feet of Colorado River Water by 2026 was crucial in securing the funding from the federal government.