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Divisions and diversions: proposals for new Delta infrastructure “must be complete package that ensures sustainable restoration of fisheries”

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on July 18, 2008 at 6:33 am

From the San Francisco Chronicle, this commentary written by Laura Harnish, regional director of the Environmental Defense Fund (this commentary was written before yesterday’s PPIC report):

The task force and others are considering, as part of a solution for the state’s water problems, a Peripheral Canal - basically a large ditch or pipe that would bring water around the delta instead of through it. Voters solidly rejected a canal in 1982, but it may be that in a post-Katrina, climate-changing world, a new and improved Peripheral Canal has merit. However, new infrastructure for our water supply cannot be considered without also meeting the needs of the bay-delta ecosystem and restoring its fisheries.

Any proposals for new infrastructure, whether a Peripheral Canal or new water storage, must go beyond lip service about restoring salmon, and actually do it. There must be a complete package that ensures sustainable restoration of the delta’s valuable fisheries. We need to provide the water that fish need when and where they need it. There must be money available to ensure that key restoration projects are not merely planned, but executed. We need to create financial incentives that will encourage everyone to do a far better job of conserving water. Most critically, we need guarantees that our water managers will be held accountable to ensure that promises are kept.

Read the full text of this commentary from the San Francisco Chronicle by clicking here.

July 18, 2008 · Filed Under Peripheral Canal

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