Judge Denies Private Land Drilling For Delta Canal

   STOCKTON, Calif. (AP) -- A San Joaquin County judge has denied the state's request to drill into private lands in search of the best route for a peripheral canal or tunnel on the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta.

   The canal or tunnel would divert Sacramento River water from the delta to farms and cities in Southern California while protecting endangered fish species.

   In a temporary ruling issued Friday, Judge John P. Farrell found that extensive drilling and studies would constitute a "taking" of property under the law.

   State water officials say the drilling would help determine where a canal should start and where to locate tunnels, siphons and barriers.

   Officials say the state will negotiate with landowners for a price for easements to allow the drilling -- or seek easements through eminent domain.

   (Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)