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The California Water Commission has partnered with CSDA to facilitate an opportunity for CSDA members to inform the Commission’s work on California’s drought strategy. CSDA members are invited to weigh-in through a virtual strategy session Tuesday, July 25 from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. Registration is available here: Event Program Display (csda.net)

During the webinar, California Water Commission Assistant Executive Officer Laura Jensen will provide an interactive presentation about the Commission’s preliminary strategies and solicit real-time audience feedback about the proposals. All types of special districts are encouraged to attend. Don’t miss this opportunity to contribute to the conversation about how California addresses its water challenges and how these strategies may impact your special district and others.

Following three years of severe drought, California experienced a winter of extreme wet weather this year. Being able to endure the next severe drought is dependent upon making smart, preemptive water management decisions during non-drought years. The Commission is exploring drought strategies as part of its role in contributing to the state’s Water Resilience Portfolio.

Earlier this year, the Commission discussed preliminary conceptual drought strategies, and Commission staff are now looking to vet these strategies with stakeholders to receive feedback and to delve into areas that may be missing. The Commission will ultimately produce a white paper offering a suite of potential drought policies and investments for state decision-makers.

Using its public forum, the California Water Commission explores water management issues from multiple perspectives and formulates recommendations to advise the Department of Water Resources, and, as appropriate, the California Natural Resources Agency, the Governor, and Legislature on ways to improve water planning and management in response to California’s changing hydrology. It consists of nine members appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the State Senate. Seven members are chosen for their expertise related to the control, storage, and beneficial use of water and two are chosen for their knowledge of the environment. The Commission supports policies that result in sustainable water management and a healthy environment statewide.