by: Bryce Lundberg
It is my privilege to represent Northern California Water Association (NCWA) as the new Chairman of the Board of Directors. I enter this office with a deep sense of optimism, urgency, and resolve.
I am optimistic because NCWA is a strong, focused and very progressive organization. Perhaps more importantly, Northern California is a special place; a place where farms, families, and communities have connected with the land for generations. The crops we produce are abundant, in quantity and quality. Water usage is efficient in every way that can be measured. In addition, North California is uniquely productive in relationship to the environment. Not only is there incredible productivity in food, but also in habitat, biodiversity, open space, meandering rivers and streams, and wildlife refuges. The way we farm in Northern California is efficient, essential to the environment, and an exceptional example to California and the nation of farming in partnership with community and nature. The habitat for waterfowl and shorebirds alone are profound and recognized across the country as an essential element for the environment.
I have devoted my professional life to organic farming and farming practices that promote conservation and is fully integrated with the environment. However, the tension and conflict related to the current debate surrounding California’s limited water resources and how much should be dedicated to flow to the Pacific Ocean is critical to the future of our state. California needs to approach this issue in a different way than we have in the past. We need to look holistically – balancing all factors and impacts. California needs strong and bold leaders who will seek and then implement creative ways to integrate water reliability for community with the needs of the environment.
As NCWA’s Chairman, I look forward to the opportunities and challenges ahead. NCWA’s leadership is resolved to protect our vital water resource for future generations and–if necessary–we will continue to fight for it. I also look forward to working with water leaders throughout the state to improve water management in the region, while providing solid solutions – providing answers to California’s many water issues.
