California’s Water Wars

September 27, 2012

Even if you don’t live in California, you’re probably well aware of the water wars that have been percolating here for the last 150 years. Ground zero in this ongoing dispute is the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, which provides water for more than 25 million Californians. Our partner, the Delta Vision Foundation, could best be described as the diplomatic corps of the water world; this group of business leaders, academics and former state cabinet members regularly facilitates round table discussions that bring everyone to the table. The objective: to move stakeholders toward consensus on realistic pathways to achieve the Two Co-Equal Goals of (1) restoring the Delta ecosystem and (2) ensuring a reliable water supply for California.

Every year, DVF releases an Annual Report Card to grade progress by the State and Federal government on reaching those goals, and the media and policy-makers are paying attention. California’s water problems won’t be solved overnight. But with smart policy analysis, determination, and savvy media outreach, the Delta Vision Foundation is moving the needle.

Julie Dixon