Skip to main content

Costa Applauds CVP Water Allocations

April 11, 2017

FRESNO, CA – Today, the Bureau of Reclamation announced the Central Valley Project 2017 Water Supply Allocations for south of Delta agricultural water districts including the member agencies of the San Luis Delta Mendota Water Authority, like San Luis Water District, Del Puerto Water District, Pacheco Water District, Panoche Water District and Westlands Water District. South of Delta agricultural water districts will receive a 100 percent allocation for the first time since 2006.

Rep. Jim Costa (CA-16) released the following statement:

"It's been a decade since Valley farmers have received their full water allocation in the federal service area. Today's announcement is long overdue, but it is very welcome news for farmers, farm workers, and communities in the San Joaquin Valley. Agriculture is the backbone of our Valley's economy, and this much needed water will allow farmers to plant the healthy and nutritious crops that feed our nation and world.

"While I applaud today's announcement, there is no denying that California's water system is broken, and further action must be taken to move California's water system into the 21st century. Investments need to be made to build water storage and fix broken water infrastructure, so that more water can be captured during years with above average rain and snow fall. Additionally, the current policies that operate California's water system are flawed and must be modified. Water that could be stored or used to recharge groundwater aquifers that have been depleted because of the drought is flowing out to the ocean. The status quo not only defies logic but is simply not sustainable."

Last month, Costa condemned the Bureau's delayed announced of the initial water allocation for the CVP, which was 65 percent.