From News Line, a daily compilation of farm water news distributed to CFWC members and others upon request. To receive News Line, click here.

Supervisors fear Delta water grab 

Coalition response…People incorrectly view the Bay Delta Conservation Plan’s two tunnels as depleting the amount of water in the Sacramento River and the Delta. The water that will flow through the tunnels is that supply that is already legally contracted for by water users south of the Delta.The amount of water that will flow through the tunnels will be limited by the actual day-by-day conditions and flows of the Sacramento River. Studies have concluded that water diversions will likely be in the range of average exports over the past 20 years. When flows are high more water can be moved through the tunnels. When flows are lower less water will be moved…or none at all under dry conditions. Learn more at www.farmwater.org/exportthrottle.pdf.

Supervisor Ruhstaller should understand that of the nearly 4,000 farmers in the San Joaquin Valley receiving water that flows through the Delta, most are family farmers. According to USDA statistics, nearly 96% of all farms in California are owned by families, individuals or partnerships and that percentage is likely representative for the San Joaquin Valley’s southern and Westside that he attempts to vilify.

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