Congressman Cardoza Cosponsors Legislation to Ease Environmental Restrictions on Valley Ag Water

Press Release

Congressman Cardoza Cosponsors Legislation to Ease Environmental Restrictions on Valley Ag Water

Congressman Dennis Cardoza joined in cosponsoring legislation this week, H.R. 856, that aims to make environmental laws more flexible during drought emergencies. The California Drought Alleviation Act of 2009 would provide needed water to Valley growers and farmers who are facing significant drought conditions.

"Water is the life's blood of the San Joaquin Valley," said Congressman Cardoza. "Our farmers and growers are already facing a significantly reduced supply through court order. California's drought has dramatically compounded this problem, with growers on the westside expected to receive a zero water supply this year. It is imperative that we get water flowing to them."

Under the bill, if both the California governor and the United States Interior Secretary determine certain drought conditions exist in the Central Valley, the W.W. Bill Jones Pumping Plant and the Harvey O Banks Pumping Plant would receive exemptions from the federal Endangered Species Act. This in turn would allow the pumping stations to provide much needed water to Valley farmers and growers.

"We have a responsibility to our farmers - and all those they feed - to ensure they receive the water they need," said Congressman Cardoza. "Between the environment and our need for food, we must find a balance."

In addition to cosponsoring the legislation, Congressman Cardoza has also joined with Congressman Jim Costa in requesting assistance from Interior Secretary Ken Salazar. Specifically, Cardoza called on Salazar to develop a comprehensive water plan that will meet California's needs and to immediately implement measures to obtain supplemental water supplies.

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