NSWA is seeking a three-part solution: operational certainty, infrastructure improvements, and unifying regulatory approaches. The primary purpose of the forum was to bring together leaders to forge an action plan for the region that will accomplish these objectives and was an important step forward in NSWA’s collective efforts.
An excellent group of presenters and panelists framed the current water situation in California and followed up with a call to action for the region. Susan Rohan, Mayor of the City of Roseville, reflected on the region’s long and rich history that’s been defined by previous California water challenges. “We have taken responsibility of our actions in the past, but today we face new obstacles,” said Rohan. “We have been hit by a drought and state rules and regulations that impact area supplies and reliability.” Rohan emphasized the need to revive the regional spirit that helped solve some of the great water challenges in the past, and gave credit to NSWA for doing exactly that. “NSWA is moving in the right direction,” she added.
Following Mayor Rohan’s presentation, a panel discussion on regional solutions provided a diverse set of perspectives on the challenges and opportunities in achieving long-term water reliability and environmental sustainability in the North State that is comprehensive, cost-effective, and improves self-sufficiency. The panel discussion was moderated by Valley Vision’s CEO, Bill Mueller. Andy Fecko, Director of Resource Development, Placer County Water Agency, Fritz Durst, Farmer & Chair, Sites Project Authority, Jim Earp, Executive Director, California Alliance for Jobs, and Jay Ziegler, Director of External Affairs and Policy, Nature Conservancy, joined Bill for a regional solutions discussion on water supply reliability and environmental stewardship.
A leader from the State Water Resources Control Board, Dorene D’Adamo, provided an outlook on the State Water Action Plan and the North State action to bring it into effect. “We need to think big, but also need to stay focused on what’s in your own backyard that can help you get to a sustainable future,” said D’Adamo. “Consensus on the nature of the problem is easy. The challenge is there’s no silver bullet or one-fix solution to all these problems…we are facing a new normal.” D’Adamo thanked NSWA for pulling together and for the work that’s being done to create a statewide water solution.
NSWA is a growing partnership of cities, counties, water providers, business, and community groups in Northern California. Common geography and interests have brought them together to work closely on water issues. Valley Vision has served as the initiative manager since January 2014.
Post provided by courtesy of Valley Vision.
