The federal government just announced another $33 million investment in drought-relief projects in the San Joaquin Valley, and that should give some help to farmers stung by a third year of drought conditions.
But while the federal stimulus funds are appreciated in this region, they must not take the place of a comprehensive water solution to ensure an adequate water supply for the state's 38 million residents, and the industries that drive the California economy.
Water policy is a complicated mix of state and federal laws, which has made it difficult to get a long-term water policy through either the California Legislature or the U.S. Congress. Quick fixes have not worked, and our political leaders have not had the attention span to see that long-term strategies are adopted.
To read the complete editorial, visit mercedsunstar.com.
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