Book Description

The report discusses the possibility of conveying fresh water from northern to southern California via a subsurface offshore aqueduct (the California Undersea Aqueduct). The specific region investigated was between Crescent City and San Diego from the 20- to 200-m depth contour. All available data on relevant variables were analyzed to provide information for aqueduct planning decisions. The variables and analyses most influential in planning the California Undersea Aqueduct were divided into two categories: variables influencing the 100-year survival of the aqueduct(century risks) and variables influencing the construction and maintenance of the aqueduct. Waves, surges, tsunamis, density, and light do not appear on the basis of reconnaissance data to pose insurmountable problems. Surface, water column, and bottom currents, including upwelling and internal wave phenomena, may or may not be prohibitive; data are inadequate, and additional information must be obtained from in situ observations. Canyons are not an insurmountable threat, but will pose innovative engineering challenges and probably be quite expensive. Additional data will also be required on these processes. (Author).