By now, it's hard to ignore the science: The Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta is in crisis. Study after study shows that the delta is dying from pollution and neglect. This PPIC report is particularly useful for framing just how bad it is.
So why should Californians care? Well, 23 million of us rely on the delta for water. Yet the delta ecosystem is collapsing, threatening California's environmental and economic quality of life. The fact is California can't remain prosperous without a reliable water supply. There is no choice but to act.
This morning the Senate-Assembly conference committee on water met for the first time. The goal - as outlined below by Senate President pro Tem Darrell Steinberg (disclosure: my boss) - is to finalize legislation before the end of session to "share, store and save water more effectively."
The Senate and Assembly leaders are pushing for a comprehensive solution that: Ensures more efficient water management for our cities, the environment, farmers and fisherman; greater protection for unique ecosystem of the Delta; reliable water supply for economic growth.
