Committee members and community volunteers discussed an idea to place mosaic art panels produced by schoolchildren on the Oroville Dam and in other public locations as a long-term public art and educational project. The proposal was presented as a concept for future fundraising and coordination with the Department of Water Resources (DWR).

Proponents described an existing local program—the “rainforest project” panels installed on a nearby hillside—that involved thousands of students contributing tiles to dozens of panels. Presenters said the panels are durable, weather-resistant and have had low vandalism rates because students and sponsors take ownership; each panel can include a QR code that identifies sponsors and a maintenance plan. The group suggested phasing installations, beginning in core areas of the dam and expanding over time.

Speakers noted the project would require DWR approval because of dam maintenance and safety considerations and said a grant writer is willing to prepare funding applications if the idea gains support. The presenter said no financial request was made at the meeting and that the idea is at an early stage; a sample panel was shown and the presenter said they planned to discuss the concept with DWR leadership at a forthcoming meeting.

Why it matters: if realized, the project could expand public art, engage schoolchildren statewide and create a new visitor attraction along the dam; however, it requires technical and safety approvals from DWR and funding to cover fabrication and installation.

Next steps and caveats
- Presenters said they will present the concept to DWR staff and suggested seeking support letters if the project moves toward grant applications. No formal commitment or funding was approved by the committee at this meeting.