California's largest AI data center project suing for access to 287 million gallons of Colorado River water, 0.03% of Imperial Valley’s supply — plaintiffs claim project equivalent to 160-acre farm amidst concern about jobs and reallocation of farmland

Imperial Valley Computer Manufacturing is suing after local agencies refused to provide recycled wastewater or river water for its planned 330-megawatt AI data center.

The company says the facility will need about 287 million gallons of water a year for cooling and may buy farmland with attached water rights.

Critics warn the plan could shift scarce Colorado River water away from agriculture and related jobs in Imperial Valley.

The case highlights growing tension between AI infrastructure, water rights, and land use in a farm-dependent region.