description Sacramento River Overview
The Sacramento River is the longest waterway in California, extending approximately 716 kilometers from its sources in the Klamath Mountains to the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta. It functions as the primary hydrological feature of the northern Central Valley, draining a vast agricultural basin and serving as the core of the state's complex water distribution system. The river is heavily engineered with dams, such as Shasta Dam, which regulate its flow for irrigation, municipal water supply, and hydroelectric power. It eventually merges with the American River before emptying into San Francisco Bay.
help Sacramento River FAQ
Where does the Sacramento River begin and end?
The Sacramento begins in Northern California near the meeting of the Upper Sacramento, Pit, and McCloud river systems. It flows through the Sacramento Valley before entering the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and ultimately San Francisco Bay.
Why is the Sacramento River so important to California's water supply?
The river is a central part of both the federal Central Valley Project and California's State Water Project. Water moving through its watershed and the Delta supplies farms, cities, and ecosystems across much of the state.
What fish migrate through the Sacramento River?
The river supports several runs of Chinook salmon as well as steelhead and green sturgeon. Shasta Dam and other changes to the watershed have reduced or blocked access to portions of their historical habitat.
Is the Sacramento River longer than the San Joaquin River?
Yes, the Sacramento is generally recognized as California's longest river at about 716 km. The two rivers meet in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta before their waters move toward San Francisco Bay.
explore Explore More
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
