Statement from San Diego County Water Authority Board Chair Fern Steiner calling for state leaders to place water bond on November ballot:
July 17, 2008
“San Diego County is at the end of California’s water system, and is particularly vulnerable to water supply constraints. Already…
“San Diego County is at the end of California’s water system, and is particularly vulnerable to water supply constraints. Already San Diego County’s water supplies are being cut. Restrictions on pumping from the State Water Project have resulted in the loss of 500,000 acre-feet of water deliveries so far this year, including about 60,000 acre-feet that would have been delivered to San Diego County. Thousands of farmers in the county have had their water supplies cut up to 30 percent. They are stumping avocado trees and cutting production to cope. Water rationing for residents and businesses may soon be imposed in San Diego County.
“The combination of pumping restrictions and drought underscore the urgency to take bold actions now to enhance water supply reliability for the state, including the 3 million residents of San Diego County.
“The Water Authority and its member agencies have invested billions of dollars in developing local water supplies and securing water transfers to enhance water supply reliability. We now need strong action very soon at the state level to help ensure the future prosperity of our region. A comprehensive water bond on the November ballot is essential to addressing our long-term water supply challenges. Any solution must include restoring both the water supply reliability and ecosystem of the Bay-Delta, which is the source of one-third of San Diego’s water supply.
“The Water Authority appreciates the leadership shown by Governor Schwarzenegger and Senator Feinstein and is looking forward to working with them on this critical issue.
“A water bond, however, does not replace the need for our residents and businesses to immediately increase their water conservation efforts, especially outdoors. People can start by cutting back their outdoor watering schedules to no more than three days a week. There are more water-saving tips and rebate programs at 20gallonchallenge.com, our conservation website.
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