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

Groundwater depletion must be addressed

Coalition response… While the writer has good intentions, the solution proposed to resolve groundwater overdraft is incorrect. Many of California’s over drafted groundwater basins are the result of unreliable surface water supplies. Environmental restrictions on water deliveries have squeezed more than 3 million acre-feet per year out of the system that serves farms, homes and businesses throughout the state. Without reliable surface supplies it has been impossible to meet the irrigation needs of farms and the food needs of California consumers without resorting to groundwater. In fact, the flood irrigation that is criticized in this article plays a big role in replenishing groundwater supplies for other farms and rural communities, something that doesn’t happen with drip and micro-irrigation systems. Every irrigation system has an appropriate use and flood is no different.

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