Tools available to make water supply more reliable as well as protect environment

Re “State water board must act to protect the Bay-Delta and California’s fishing industry”; Reader Reaction, May 20, 2020

In his response, Rick Frank states that, “A scientifically credible, negotiated agreement involving flow standards and habitat restoration would be desirable.” As the alternative is more one-size-fits-all government regulation that hasn’t worked in a decade, we agree. 

Frank goes on to say what’s needed is, “for water users to commit additional water, funding and habitat restoration.” That, and much more, has already been done.

Farmers have spent hundreds of millions of dollars over the last decade on scientific research showing us better ways to protect fish. Based on that research farmers have committed additional water at the time science says fish need it most, as well as ongoing funding for habitat restoration, predator control and more.

We have tools at hand to make our water supply more reliable for all Californians as well as protect the environment. Maybe it’s time Frank and the state of California take “yes” for an answer.

_____

Mike Wade is the executive director of the California Farm Water Coalition.

We want to hear from you

Want to submit a guest commentary or reaction to an article we wrote? You can find our submission guidelines here. Please contact CalMatters with any commentary questions: commentary@calmatters.org