News Release Archive

Public invited to view the solar eclipse at Shasta Dam

Media Contact: Erin Curtis, 916-978-5100, eccurtis@usbr.gov
Sheri Harral, 530-276-2030, sharral@usbr.gov

For Release: August 14, 2017

REDDING, Calif. – The Bureau of Reclamation will host a solar eclipse viewing at Shasta Dam Aug. 21 from 9 a.m. to noon. The last time a total solar eclipse was visible from coast to coast along the same path was almost 100 years ago, on June 8, 1918.

From Shasta Dam, about 9 miles northwest of Redding, 90 percent of the total eclipse should be viewable. The eclipse is expected to begin at 9:02 a.m., with the maximum eclipse at 10:16 a.m. The eclipse finish is expected at 11:38 a.m.

Reclamation guides will be available at a booth on the crest of the dam to share a variety of ways to view the eclipse and explain what is happening. Protective eclipse glasses will be provided to ensure a safe opportunity for visitors to view this rare event. Activities for all ages are planned to enhance the experience.

A solar eclipse is when the moon, positioned directly between the sun and Earth, casts a shadow on our planet. This year’s eclipse will first be visible over the Pacific Ocean before crossing over Oregon and following a diagonal path across the U.S. to South Carolina.

For more information about the Shasta Dam viewing event, please contact Sheri Harral at 530-276-2030 (TTY 800-877-8339) or sharral@usbr.gov. For more information about the eclipse, please visit https://eclipse2017.nasa.gov/.

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The Bureau of Reclamation is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior and is the nation's largest wholesale water supplier and second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Our facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation opportunities, and environmental benefits. Visit our website at https://www.usbr.gov and follow us on Twitter @USBR; Facebook @bureau.of.reclamation; LinkedIn @Bureau of Reclamation; Instagram @bureau_of_reclamation; and YouTube @reclamation.