
Photo credit: Chris Gillhaus
California’s water policy is a complex and critical issue that deeply affects the San Joaquin Valley, one of the world’s most productive agricultural regions. The Water Blueprint for the San Joaquin Valley recognizes that public education is essential in today’s world.
Our San Joaquin Valley communities and farmers face constant challenges in securing consistent and affordable water due to regulations, environmental considerations, and recurring drought cycles. These obstacles significantly impact agricultural operations, as well as rural communities that depend on our farms for economic stability.
Public perception is a critical factor for the region. Early claims during the L.A. wildfires attempted to blame San Joaquin Valley farmers for hoarding water and impacting local jurisdictions’ ability to respond effectively to the emergency. While untrue, it required an effort to push back against a persistent narrative that farmers are somehow to blame for water challenges elsewhere.
It’s important that consumers, policymakers, and the media understand the connection between farm water and our food supply. We work to help the public understand that farmers are using water and other resources efficiently. As water supplies have diminished, farmers must be more resourceful, integrating technology in their operations to maximize efficiency wherever possible.
Those are things we strive for in the San Joaquin Valley, but the agricultural sector often must adapt to shifting conditions and policies, sometimes at great cost. Investments in new irrigation technologies and compliance with conservation mandates strain resources, particularly for smaller farms. These challenges have far-reaching consequences, affecting job availability and economic opportunities in rural areas.
We believe that real solutions exist, including new and improved water storage projects, long-overdue infrastructure upgrades, and incentive-based conservation programs. However, implementing these solutions often requires in-depth policy discussions that all too often take years to realize tangible benefits.
The Blueprint is committed to representing Valley interests and fostering a deeper understanding of the relationship between reliable water supplies, economic prosperity in our rural communities, and the nation’s food supply. We strive to bridge the gap between agriculture’s realities and public perception, advocating for policies and projects that support the Valley’s food producers, jobs, and the consumers that fill their baskets with local farm products.