What is the primary purpose of the Central Valley Project (CVP)?

The primary purpose of the Central Valley Project (CVP) is to supply water to farms, businesses, and cities. This large-scale water management project in California was developed to address the need for reliable water supplies for irrigation in the agricultural heartland of the state, as well as for municipal and industrial uses. By capturing and distributing water from Northern California’s rivers, the CVP plays a critical role in supporting the agricultural economy, which is vital for both local communities and the state as a whole.

While the CVP also has features that generate hydroelectric power and contribute to recreational opportunities, these are secondary to its mission of water delivery. The project's design and infrastructure are primarily focused on diverting water to ensure that the Central Valley can sustain its diverse economic activities, especially farming. Additionally, soil erosion control might be indirectly influenced by the management of water resources, but it is not the central aim of the CVP.