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

Tunnels would aid Southern California’s unlimited thirst

Coalition response…The Bay Delta Conservation Plan (BDCP) is more than a water supply proposal; it also includes benefits for species and habitat as a result of being a habitat conservation plan. BDCP has been developed under Section 10 of the Endangered Species Act and the California Natural Community Conservation Planning program. These two directives require BDCP to have a plan that covers all the species that are affected in the planning area by the project.

The proposed habitat areas in the south Delta are designed to create favorable conditions for increased survival of salmon, steelhead and other species.  Biologists have indicated that added habitat could result in higher productivity for the salmonid fish by giving them more area in which to grow instead of being flushed immediately out of the Delta.