The California water supply continues to be a focal point, sharing the spotlight with significant legislative issues facing state lawmakers this session. Approximately 120 bills, held back last year due to insufficient votes, are back on the table. Of those pieces of state legislation, two critical bills are taking center stage and capturing the attention of farmers and stakeholders alike.
One proposed bill seeks to increase penalties for illegal water diversions, aiming to strengthen enforcement against unauthorized water usage. Another bill proposes granting extensive authority to the State Water Resources Control Board over water rights, sparking concerns and close scrutiny from the agricultural community.
Farmers, having invested considerable time in addressing water-related issues last year, are closely monitoring the developments. The legislative decisions could have far-reaching implications for water access, usage regulations, and penalties associated with unauthorized diversions.
Insights from Texas Citrus Mutual Pres. Dale Murden
In a recent interview with Dale Murden, President of Texas Citrus Mutual, concerns over irrigation water shortages in the lower Rio Grande Valley took center stage. Murden sheds light on the ongoing challenges stemming from Mexico’s limited water resources, impacting the agricultural landscape.
“The situation has been going on as long as I’ve been in agriculture over 40 plus years. The treaty was done in 1944, covering the Colorado, the Tijuana, and the Rio Grande rivers,” said Murden, explaining the complexities of the situation, and emphasizing the historical context of the water treaty. With reservoirs at record lows and water districts already cutting off agricultural irrigation, the Rio Grande Valley faces severe circumstances, affecting a half-million irrigated acres and a diverse range of crops.
“The economic impact and losses are valued to be about $993,000,000 without the water, without the ability for farmers to grow the crop this coming year.” He said.
Murden highlights the staggering economic impact on the region, underlining the critical role water plays in sustaining agriculture. Efforts are underway to engage Congress and the State Department to address compliance with the water treaty by Mexico.
“Without rain moving forward, the Rio Grande Valley agriculture is in dire straits. Citrus, the trees need water. The cane needs water. The vegetable crops need water,” Murden said.
Looking ahead, he acknowledges the dire situation faced by Rio Grande Valley agriculture without adequate rainfall. The unpredictable nature of rainfall patterns makes irrigation water indispensable for crops.
