Which project is primarily responsible for providing water to Southern California?

The State Water Project (SWP) is primarily responsible for providing water to Southern California because it is a vast system of reservoirs, aqueducts, and pumping stations designed specifically to transport water from Northern California to the heavily populated and agricultural areas in the south. This extensive project was initiated in the 1960s and serves to meet the water needs of millions of residents as well as agricultural demands in regions that depend heavily on consistent water supplies.

While the Central Valley Project (CVP) also plays a role in water supply in California, particularly in the Central Valley, its primary focus is not on Southern California. The Oroville Dam is a component of the CVP and serves as a crucial water storage facility, but it does not specifically cater to the southern region's water needs. The San Joaquin River Restoration Project aims to restore the ecological health of the river and involves water management strategies but is not primarily focused on supplying water to Southern California.

Thus, the State Water Project is the key infrastructure supporting the water supply for Southern California, ensuring that the area can sustain its population and agricultural activities.