ACWA Legislative Symposium slated for March 17

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on March 16, 2010 at 5:00 am

From the Association of California Water Agencies:

“SACRAMENTO, CA — 03/15/10 — The Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA) will host its annual Legislative Symposium on Wednesday, March 17, at the Sacramento Convention Center. The program will focus on the historic legislative water package passed in November by the state Legislature and signed by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Attendees will hear from representatives of the state agencies responsible for implementing the legislation, and their initial plans for improving the Delta ecosystem while ensuring reliable water deliveries. Other specific topics include improving the feasibility of desalination projects and potential fee increases imposed by an economically ailing state.

Panelists include Phil Isenberg, Chair of the Delta Vision Blue Ribbon Task Force in 2007-2008, Delta Protection Commission Chair Don Nottoli and Department of Water Resources Director Mark Cowin. Other speakers include Dan Pellissier, Governor Schwarzenegger’s deputy cabinet secretary, Mesa Consolidated Water District General Manager Paul Shoenberger, Sierra Club Senior Advocate Jim Metropulos, State Water Resources Control Board Chair Charles R. Hoppin, State and Consumer Services Agency Acting Secretary Tom Sheehy, and Friant Water Authority Government Affairs Manager Glenn Farrel.

WHAT: ACWA 2010 Legislative Symposium
WHEN: Wednesday, March 17, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
WHERE: Sacramento Convention Center, Rooms 307/308

ACWA is a statewide association of public agencies whose 450 members are responsible for about 90% of the water delivered in California. For more information, visit www.acwa.com.

March 16, 2010 · Filed Under Events, Water Legislation

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Event: Invitation to the Surfrider’s premier of “The Cycle of Insanity: The Real Story of Water” on March 22nd (World Water Day)

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on March 3, 2010 at 7:44 am

From the Surfrider Foundation:

The Cycle of Insanity: The Real Story of Water – TRAILER 1 from Surfrider Foundation San Diego C on Vimeo.

“San Diego, CA, [3/1/2010] – On World Water Day, Monday March 22, 2010, the San Diego Chapter of the Surfrider Foundation will premier The Cycle of Insanity: The Real Story of Water at The Loft on the campus of UC San Diego. This new short film, narrated by actress Zuleikha Robinson from the television series Lost, dives into controversial problems and solutions related to water management and serves as a practical outline for citizens curious about water issues. There will be three showings of The Cycle of Insanity: The Real Story of Water: 4 p.m. (press), 6 p.m., and 7:30 pm. The last time slot includes a free showing of the surf feature, Absolute Mexico.

The film is free and open to all. Government agencies, elected officials, experts, students and the general public will all find the movie intriguing and informative. Following each showing, there will be a Q & A session for the audience to ask questions and learn more about smart solutions to improve water management and the way we use water. Happy hour specials, including beer, wine, and hors d’oeuvres, will be served all evening.

Read more

March 3, 2010 · Filed Under Events

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Event: Stockton water forum on Saturday, March 6th aimed at Valley Latinos

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on March 1, 2010 at 7:30 am

From the Stockton Record:

“Water. It has ignited debate for decades in San Joaquin County, yet Latinos have detached themselves from these discussions, some community leaders say.

“Nobody understands or knows what is going on. We just hear a lot of controversy,” said Inez Ruiz-Huston, Latino outreach coordinator at University of the Pacific.

And it’s time to get involved, say organizers of a series of planned conversations that will be translated in Spanish.

Hispanics for Political Action and the Coalition of Mexican American Organizations are trying to educate Latinos, especially Spanish-speaking residents, on all sides of the water issues. … “

Continue reading this article from the Stockton Record by clicking here.

March 1, 2010 · Filed Under Events

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Register now for the the California Water Policy Conference, March 4 & 5

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on February 25, 2010 at 7:50 am

From JoAnn Carrillo at the Southern California Water Dialogue:

“The Early Registration Deadline for the California Water Policy Conference has been extended until Friday, February 26! Click HERE to go directly to the registration link or visit the conference website at www.cawaterpolicy.org

In its tradition, the California Water Policy Conference has gathered some of the very best and brightest from a variety of perspectives to argue, clarify, distinguish and advance the potential solutions to the challenges facing the future of California’s water resources. We hope you will join us at what is sure to be an enlightening event.

In addition to the plenary speakers below, the breakout sessions include:
• California Agriculture and Drought: No Rain, No Rainbow
• Is the Legislative Water Deal a Good Deal for California?
• Renewable Energy Development: A New Water War?
• Direct Potable Reuse: How Thirsty Do We Have to Be?
• Optimizing Local Water Resources While Creating Green Jobs
• A Debate: Water Rights in a Climate Changed California
• All Stressed Out: Is the BDCP the Right Rx?
• Drought: Real or Surreal?
• 20 x 2020 Conservation Target: The Bull’s Eye”

February 25, 2010 · Filed Under Events

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Best Best & Krieger water law attorneys to host special workshop March 6: Attorneys to discuss recent legislation, ways to stretch supplies

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on February 25, 2010 at 7:44 am

From Best Best & Krieger:

“IRVINE, Calif. _ Six attorneys from Best Best & Krieger, known in California for its water law expertise, will present a special workshop March 6 in Huntington Beach to discuss water supply challenges in the drought-plagued state and offer strategies on how to proactively address shortages.

The seminar, “Twenty-First Century Challenges to Supplying Water,” will offer an update on drought conditions and an in-depth analysis of the regulatory and court-imposed restrictions impacting water supplies in California. The program, to be held in Huntington Beach, will also examine the relationship between water scarcity, water supply planning and analyses, the land-use approval process and the impact on this process from recently passed water legislation.

“With all of the issues surrounding water in California, we thought it would be a good time to explore them and help folks understand what they can do to better manage their water resources,” said Kelly Salt, a BB&K attorney in San Diego. The firm also has an office in Irvine.

Geared toward water districts, the attorneys will offer tips on how to reduce water usage through recycled water, storm water capture and reuse, water conservation and drought management plans.

They will also talk about crafting water rate structures that encourage efficient use, as well as how to employ water efficiency practices to help meet a 20 percent per capita reduction in water use by 2020, as recently mandated by California law.

Participating attorneys are Shawn Hagerty, Roderick Walston, Kelly Salt, Paeter Garcia, Stefanie Hedlund and Steven Anderson.

For more details on the workshop, click here.

February 25, 2010 · Filed Under Events

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McGeorge schedules forum on state water policy

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on February 9, 2010 at 2:12 pm

From the Sacramento Bee:

“The University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law will offer a free forum on California water policy and issues Feb. 22 at its Sacramento campus.

The forum will focus on the package of water bills approved by the Legislature and the governor in November, along with related environmental, legal and economic issues. … “

February 9, 2010 · Filed Under Events

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Reserve your seat now for the Water Education Foundation’s Executive Briefing & other conferences to be held in 2010

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on February 1, 2010 at 7:34 am

From the Water Education Foundation:

Reserve your seat today for “Moving Forward”, the Water Education Foundation’s 27th Annual Executive Briefing, March 25-26, 2010 at the Doubletree Hotel in Sacramento.

Confirmed speakers include newly appointed Secretary of Natural Resources Lester Snow and Mark Cowin, acting Director of the California Department of Water Resources. You’ll also hear from Alexis Strauss, Water Division Director of U.S. EPA Region IX and Donald R. Glaser, Regional Director of the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, Mid-Pacific Region.

DISCUSSION TOPICS INCLUDE:
• The Delta: The Big Picture
• Groundwater Policy: Managing the Resource
• Drinking Water
• Quantification Settlement Agreement Lawsuits and the Colorado River
• The Conservation Mandate: Measuring Results

Registration fees include a continental breakfast for both days, and lunch and a hosted reception on March 25.

For more information or to register securely online, click here.

In addition to our Executive Briefing, the Foundation is coordinating and cosponsoring several major conferences this year:

Annual Climate Prediction Applications Science Workshop, March 2-4: Join us in San Diego for the 8th annual National Weather Service Climate Services conference, held in conjunction with California DWR, the National Integrated Drought Information System and the Foundation. “Managing Water Resources and Drought in a Changing Climate” will include panel presentations on best practices in adaptation planning and available tools and future needs for effective decision support.

International Groundwater Conference, June 15-17: More than 100 groundwater experts from around the world will speak June 15-17 at an international groundwater/agriculture conference. Toward Sustainable Groundwater in Agriculture: An International Conference Linking Science and Policy, organized by the Foundation and UC Davis, will be held in San Francisco. Topics to be addressed in plenary and technical sessions include Socioeconomic Aspects of Agricultural Groundwater, Agricultural Groundwater Quality and Contamination, Groundwater at the Agriculture-Urban Interface and much more!

Water Quality and Regulatory Conference, November 3-4: Held in Ontario, this two-day, three-track conference will feature discussions on water quality regulations, perchlorate, pharmaceuticals, disinfection by-products, legal issues, other emerging contaminants and emergency management. There are sessions designed for engineers, researchers, water agencies, lawyers, academics, regulators, elected officials and military representatives, board members and city council members.

Learn About the Santa Ana River Watershed, April 22: The Foundation is coordinating Santa Ana River Watershed 2010: Working Together for a Sustainable Future. Convened by the Santa Ana Watershed Project Authority and presented by RBF Consulting, the April 22 conference will be held in Anaheim. Watershed preservation is a key issue for the region’s future.

For more information or to register for these conferences, visit the Foundation’s website at www.watereducation.org/conferences

February 1, 2010 · Filed Under Events

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Event: Scientists to discuss initial results of Sierra Nevada groundwater study

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on January 28, 2010 at 3:27 pm

From the USGS:

“Scientists from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) next week will present their initial results of a study of untreated groundwater from wells and springs throughout the Sierra Nevada.

The meeting, conducted by the State Water Resources Control Board and the USGS, is set for Thursday, January 21, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Quincy Community Services District, 900 Spanish Creek Road, Quincy, CA.

The Water Board’s Groundwater Ambient Monitoring and Assessment (GAMA) Program is collaborating with the USGS and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratories (LLNL) to conduct the Priority Basin Project, which monitors and assesses water quality in groundwater basins in California. The main goals of GAMA are to improve comprehensive statewide groundwater monitoring and to increase the availability of groundwater quality information to the public. … “

January 28, 2010 · Filed Under Events

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Lower Colorado River Tour, March 10-12

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on January 27, 2010 at 8:24 am

From the Water Education Foundation:

The Colorado River is a lifeline to 25 million people in the Southwest. While the drought persists, the population increases and demand continues to grow in the Lower Basin states. How its water is used and managed to meet competing needs is the focus of the Water Education Foundation’s Lower Colorado River Tour, March 10-12, 2010.

Drought conditions and shortage criteria in the Colorado River Basin, the potential impact of the Quantification Settlement Agreement lawsuits, endangered species and multi-species planning and Salton Sea restoration projects are just some of the topics you will learn about from experts on all sides of these issues as you travel along the Lower Colorado River. Stops include the Drop 2 Reservoir Site, Yuma Desalting Plant, farms in the Imperial Valley and Coachella valleys, Hoover Dam and a boat ride on Lake Mead.

Registration is $650 per person, single occupancy room; $550 each for two people sharing a room. Register four or more people for a discount – single occupancy rooms $600.

Visit the Water Education Foundation’s website at www.watereducation.org/tours for more information or to register securely online.

January 27, 2010 · Filed Under Events

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Event: March 6th Special Workshop: Meeting the challenges of the California water crisis

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on January 27, 2010 at 8:20 am

From Best Best & Krieger:

“Six attorneys from Best Best & Krieger, known in California for its water law expertise, will present a special workshop March 6 in Huntington Beach to discuss water supply challenges in the drought-plagued state and offer strategies on how to proactively address shortages.

By attending “Twenty-First Century Challenges to Supplying Water,” you will get an update on drought conditions and an in-depth analysis of the regulatory and court-imposed restrictions impacting water supplies in California. The program will also examine the relationship between water scarcity, water supply planning and analyses, the land-use approval process and the impact on this process from recently passed water legislation.

Additionally, you will get practical tips on:
· Reducing water usage through recycled water, storm water capture and reuse, water conservation and drought management plans.
· Crafting water rate structures that encourage efficient use.
· Employing water efficiency practices to help meet a 20 percent per capita reduction in water use by 2020, as recently mandated by California law.

The workshop is being presented by the Special District and Local Government Institute in conjunction with a two-day governance seminar.

Several attorneys on the panel are directly involved in cases key to California’s water supply, including litigation impacting the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, the state’s largest source of water for cities and farms. Participating attorneys are Shawn Hagerty, Roderick Walston, Kelly Salt, Paeter Garcia, Stefanie Hedlund and Steven Anderson.

For more information or to register, click here.

January 27, 2010 · Filed Under Events

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It’s going to be a busy, busy day for water watchers!

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on January 25, 2010 at 8:21 am

There are no less than four major water events happening across the state today. Listing them all in chronological order:

Fresno Town Hall Meeting on water: Called by Congressman Tom McClintock, the meeting will begin at 8:30 am in the Fresno City Council Chambers. Far as I know, Congressman McCarthy and Congressman Nunes are also joining McClintock, along with others. Read Congressman Mc Clintock’s meeting announcement here. If the meeting is going to be webcast, you would find it here.

The NAS science review of the biological opinions: Open session begins at 9:00 AM in the ARC Ballroom University of California, Davis. Read the agenda for the meeting by clicking here.

Southern California congressional sub-committee hearing on drought solutions: Congresswoman Grace Napolitano assembles members of the fed’s Subcommittee on Water & Power for a hearing on Southern California drought solutions at 1pm in the boardroom of the Metropolitan Water District. Read the meeting announcement here. Read the panel line-up here.

Senator Wolk speaks at UC Davis about “Water and the California Legislature”: From 4:00pm to 5:30pm at 216 Wellman Hall (webcast available), the UC Davis Center for Watershed Sciences will have Senator Lois Wolk speaking in this continuing series on California water policy. Click here for more info and the webcast link.

January 25, 2010 · Filed Under Events

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Congressional hearing will focus on Southern California’s drought-coping strategies

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on January 21, 2010 at 8:25 am

From the Riverside Press Enterprise:

“Southern California’s water conservation, recycling and other strategies for dealing with chronic shortages caused by three years of drought will be the topic of a rare congressional hearing in Los Angeles next week.

The session is intended to help other parts of the state handle growing demands and limited supplies.

Rep. Grace Napolitano, D-Norwalk, head of the House natural resources subcommittee on water and power, has called for expert testimony to detail the state’s problem and determine how federal lawmakers can help. Among the topics to be discussed Monday at the Metropolitan Water District headquarters are groundwater supply and quality, Colorado River supplies and long-term trends tied to climate change.

“The innovations Southern California water agencies have developed can help our entire state deal with the drought and prepare for the future,” Napolitano said. “If we want California to deal with this drought and come out strong enough to withstand the next one, we have to learn and take action.” … “

INTERESTING RELATED NOTE: It’s going to a busy day on Monday, as Subcommittee on Water and Power members have two meetings to choose to attend:

Representative McClintock’s hearing in Fresno “Republicans to hold Congressional forum in Fresno January 25th to examine resolving the San Joaquin Valley water crisis” (no other meeting details other than the date have been announced yet)
Representative Napolitano’s hearing in Los Angeles, an “oversight field hearing on Southern California drought solutions” (1 pm, Metropolitan Water District)

We’ll see who winds up where. Plus I will see if I can find location information for the meeting in Fresno. Since it’s scheduled for Monday, there should be more details available. You can learn more about the Subcommittee on Water and Power by clicking here.

January 21, 2010 · Filed Under Events

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Event: Little Hoover Commission to continue study of California’a water governance on Jan. 28

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on January 20, 2010 at 6:32 am

From the Little Hoover Commission:

“On Thursday, January 28, 2010, the Little Hoover Commission will conduct a public hearing on water governance. The hearing will begin at 9 a.m. in Room 437 of the State Capitol in Sacramento.

In this study, the Commission is examining the management and governance of California’s water supply. At this hearing, the Commission will discuss future water governance, water use efficiency, groundwater management and storage, and strategies
for streamlining the water transfer process.

The Commission will hear from a senior consultant with the Resources Legacy Fund on water planning and management. A panel of two participants will discuss using markets and regulation for efficient water use. That panel will include a University of California, Davis, professor and chair and the executive director of the State and Federal Water Contractors Agency.

Finally, a second panel will discuss water storage and conveyance, including groundwater options. That panel will include the general manager of the Kern Water Bank Authority and a senior hydrologist with the California Water Program of The Nature Conservancy.

There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of the hearing. The Commission also encourages written comments. A business meeting will follow the hearing.”

The agenda for the meeting can be found here.

January 20, 2010 · Filed Under Events

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Today’s public water forum on water bond proposal in Fresno will be webcast; however, no opponent of the bond is scheduled to speak

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on January 15, 2010 at 8:10 am

From ACWA’s eNews:

“California’s recently enacted comprehensive water package and the November 2010 water infrastructure bond proposal will be discussed by a number of experts and political leaders during a Fresno forum Friday, Jan. 15.

Major sponsors include the California Latino Water Coalition, ACWA and the California Department of Water Resources. The program, which will be hosted by the City of Fresno, will take place from 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the Fresno Convention Center’s Valdez Exhibit Hall, 848 Main Street in downtown Fresno. There is no cost to attend and the public is invited.

The forum will be webcast live [City of Fresno website]. For more details click here [News Release]. “

However, some question how impartial or educational this forum will be in this article from the Fresno Bee:

“The city of Fresno today is hosting what is promoted as an educational forum on the $11 billion water bond proposal state voters will consider in November.

But not a single opponent of the measure is scheduled to speak, raising questions about the fairness of the event, which also has the backing of publicly funded water agencies.

“It’s not a forum — it’s an advertisement to support the bond,” said Kole Upton, a director with the Chowchilla Water District, which opposes the bond.

State law bars government officials from using public money to advocate for or against ballot measures. But planners say there won’t be campaigning at the event, scheduled for 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Fresno Convention Center.

“We made it real clear to everyone that this is strictly informational — strictly to educate,” said Mario Santoyo of the California Latino Water Coalition, which organized the event along with the Association of California Water Agencies. … “

January 15, 2010 · Filed Under Events

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Event note: Jonathan Clay and Philip Isenberg’s talk today at UC Davis, possible webcast

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on January 13, 2010 at 8:49 am

Today at UC Davis, Jonathan Clay and Phillip Isenberg will be giving a talk, “A Dialogue on California Water Issues,” in the IGA Reading Room (360 Shields Library) from 12:10 – 1:00 pm. The Monday afternoon talks are being webcast, but since this is a special talk in a different room, I’m not sure if the webcast will be available or not.

If you’re interested in seeing it live, check this website around noon: http://watershed.ucdavis.edu/water-policy-series/

January 13, 2010 · Filed Under Events

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Agenda and details on National Academies meetings at UC Davis, Jan 24 – 29

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on January 12, 2010 at 3:59 pm

The schedule and agenda for the upcoming National Academies meetings to be held at UC Davis are now posted. The National Academies are the folks who will be reviewing the biological opinions for the federal government.

The sessions open on Sunday at 3 pm, with legislators tentatively scheduled to make presentations until 5:30. Public sessions will resume on Monday and Tuesday. Closed sessions scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday.

To review the agenda and obtain registration information, click here.

Hat tip to Matt Weiser’s twitter feed for reminding me to repost this!

January 12, 2010 · Filed Under Events

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UC Davis: California Water Policy Series available online

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on January 12, 2010 at 6:41 am

The UC Davis Center for Watershed Sciences has a series of speakers lined up for Monday afternoons from 4pm to 5:30pm. The event will be simulcast over the web.

The series kicked off yesterday with Jay Lund, Director of the Center for Watershed Sciences, speaking on California’s Water Challenges.

Tomorrow, a special talk with Jonathan Clay and Phillip Isenberg will be held from 12:10 – 1:00 pm.

Find the link for Jay Lund’s speech, plus a list of upcoming speakers by clicking here.

January 12, 2010 · Filed Under Events

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USGS experts to discuss Sierra groundwater study

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on January 12, 2010 at 6:05 am

From The Union Democrat:

“U.S. Geological Survey hydrologists will host a public meeting Thursday to discuss the Sierra’s groundwater resources, a source of drinking water for many county residents.

The event is scheduled from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Tuolumne Utilities District headquarters, at 18885 Nugget Blvd., off Tuolumne Road.

The meeting is being conducted by the USGS and the State Water Resources Control Board.

Specifically, hydrologists will discuss the initial results of a study of untreated groundwater from wells and springs throughout the Sierra Nevada. Their full report is expected to be completed in a year. … “

January 12, 2010 · Filed Under Events

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The National Academies committee to meet at UC Davis Jan 24 – 28; public and closed sessions planned

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on January 8, 2010 at 8:40 am

From the Delta e-News:

“A National Academies committee on Sustainable Water and Environmental Management in the California Bay-Delta will conduct a series of public and closed meetings at UC Davis from Sunday, Jan. 24, to Thursday, Jan. 28. You can find meeting details here. Congress called for a committee of experts to review the scientific basis of actions taken to achieve an environmentally sustainable Bay-Delta and a reliable water supply. The committee is scheduled to complete its first report by March 15. For more information on the committee, go here.

January 8, 2010 · Filed Under Delta Issues, Events

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Upcoming Events: Water modeling forum, water law symposium, and LADWP beings working on new Urban Water Management Plan

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on January 7, 2010 at 7:53 am

Mark your calendar for these upcoming events:

“The California Water and Environmental Modeling Forum will hold its 16th Annual Meeting from Monday, Feb. 22, through Wednesday, Feb. 24, at the Asilomar Conference Center in Pacific Grove. The theme of the 2010 Annual Meeting is “Modeling in the Eye of the Storm,” and the program includes more than 20 technical sessions, including California Water Plan Update 2009, and Ellen Hanak of the Public Policy Institute of California in her keynote will discuss the economics of Delta facilities.” From the California Water Plan e-News Click here for more information.

A day-long conference on California water law will be held on Saturday,Jan. 30, in San Francisco. Titled: Who Controls the Water? Reforming California Water Law Governance in an Age of Scarcity, the symposium will focus on new California water legislation and its effect on governance. Discussions will include, “Will the legislation’s new governance structures help resolve the Delta’s challenges?” and “What further reforms in California’s institutions are needed to meet the state’s future, competing, water needs?” DWR Chief Counsel David Sandino is the symposium’s opening speaker. From the California Water Plan e-News. Click here for more information.

Join the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) at two public workshops this month to share your views on the future of Los Angeles’ water supply as the City prepares its 2010 Urban Water Management Plan. LADWP’s Urban Water Management Plan offers a detailed discussion on the status of Los Angeles’ imported water sources, and provides an update of future water supply and demand for the City. The Water Plan also discusses the management and development of water resources, as well as efforts relating to the efficient use water. Additional topics include existing and future water conservation measures, water recycling, and management of the City’s groundwater basins. All large California urban water agencies prepare a UWMP and provide an update every five years. From the LADWP. Click here for more information.

January 7, 2010 · Filed Under Events

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Event: G’Day USA 2010: Australia-US Water Sustainability & Management Forum

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on December 29, 2009 at 7:30 am

From the Australian Government:

“Register Now: You are invited to take part in the one day conference for the unique opportunity to hear from over twenty leading Australian and US policy makers, industry leaders and research experts.

About the event: Take advantage of this invaluable opportunity to learn how Australia is responding to the critical challenges of reduced rainfall and prolonged drought. Join us in learning more about efforts to mitigate impacts on urban users, agricultural users and finding water for the environment. Also hear about why Australia is moving to desalination in both coastal and inland communities as part of its integrated approach to water management. Presentations and interactive dialogue will create an unprecedented forum for collaboration and exchange of ideas with the aim of finding innovative solutions for water sustainability and management. … “

This free workshop is scheduled for January 14th at the Intercontinental Hotel in Century City. For more information or to register, click here.

December 29, 2009 · Filed Under Events

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Event: California Water Law Symposium 2010: Who Controls the Water?

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on December 14, 2009 at 8:01 am

California Water Law Symposium 2010: Who Controls the Water?
Reforming California Water Law Governance in an Age of Scarcity

Save the Date: January 30, 2010 at The University of San Francisco School of Law

The history of California water governance is a story of politics and power. Who Controls the Water? Reforming California Water Law Governance in an Age of Scarcity dives into the new California water legislation and its impact on governance to ask: Will the legislation’s new governance structures help resolve the Delta’s challenges? What further reforms in California’s institutions are needed to meet the state’s future, competing, water needs?

Go to http://www.waterlawsymposium.com to register or for more information.

December 14, 2009 · Filed Under Events

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Free forum Dec. 10th: The future of the Delta and California water

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on December 4, 2009 at 6:20 am

From the San Francisco Estuary Partnership:

“Concerned about the future of the San Francisco Bay Delta, the linchpin of the state’s water system? Wondering what the new package of water bills will mean for the Bay Area?

Come to a free forum on December 10, 2009, at the downtown Oakland Marriott, from 9 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. The forum is sponsored by the San Francisco Estuary Partnership to help decipher the latest Delta- and water-management-related legislation and proposed bond measures.

Download flyer with details here,

Please click on the following link to help us ensure there is enough seating: Register for the Delta & California Water Forum (In the body of the email type the following: “Register, First Name, Last Name, Affiliation, and email address”) For more information contact Debbi EgterVanWissekerke, SFEP, 510-622-2304, DEgterVanWissekerke@waterboards.ca.gov … “

Visit the San Francisco Estuary Partnership website.

December 4, 2009 · Filed Under Events

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Live webinar today at 1:30pm: Department of Water Resources Director Lester Snow to hold web discussion

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on November 17, 2009 at 8:22 am

From the website of the Office of the Governor:

“Department of Water Resources Director Lester Snow will hold a live interactive webinar to discuss the historic legislative package to reform and rebuild California’s water system, signed into law by Governor Schwarzenegger earlier this month.

On October 11, Governor Schwarzenegger issued a proclamation calling for the legislature to meet in an extraordinary session to address California’s water crisis, urging the passage of legislation on the many issues facing the state’s water system. On November 4, the legislature passed a historic comprehensive water package and the Governor signed the legislation over the following days. “

The webinar is scheduled for 1:30pm today. You can view it by clicking here.

November 17, 2009 · Filed Under Events

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Become a Water Leader in 2010 – Deadline is December 7

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on November 16, 2009 at 8:06 am

From the Water Education Foundation:

The deadline to apply for the 2010 Water Leaders Class is fast approaching. Don’t miss this opportunity to be mentored by a top level policy-maker in the water world!

Water Leaders is a yearlong program that educates young professionals from diverse backgrounds about water issues.
Class members are expected to attend a January orientation, the Bay-Delta Tour, one other Foundation tour, and the March 25-26 Executive Briefing. Class members also spend time shadowing their mentor and working on a class-prepared research report.

Tuition is $2,500 and there is a $25 application fee. Scholarship funding is available.

Class begins January 2010. If you have any questions, contact Jean Nordmann at jnordmann@watereducation.org.

Link to Water Leaders page:
http://www.watereducation.org/doc.asp?id=875

November 16, 2009 · Filed Under Events

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Event: Thursday, Nov. 12: Unprecedented water reform takes center stage at forum; “Surfacing the Solutions” expected to draw hundreds of industry leaders to discuss water crisis

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on November 10, 2009 at 3:46 pm

From CORO LA:

Los Angeles, Calif., (November 6, 2009) – An $11-billion bond is just one part of the proposed water reform agreed on by State leaders this week. California voters will have to approve the bond, but elected officials and industry leaders will be required to take responsible action to resolve the State’s water crisis. In an urgent and concentrated effort, federal and state leaders will team with natural resource experts, elected officials and other community stakeholders to seek out sustainable solutions at a discovery forum Thursday, November 12 from 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

CORO, a non-profit, non-partisan educational institute supported by foundations, corporations and individuals, is hosting the event in an effort to bring together urban, agricultural and environmental interests. Coro is organizing an afternoon of productive dialogue with the intent of leading participating stakeholders to action and change.

“We believe the water crisis and its potential impact is much greater than Southern Californians perceive, therefore we are compelled to stage this event to inspire vital solutions for the entire State,” said Don Pierro, CORO Executive Director.

David J. Hayes, Deputy Secretary of the Interior in the Obama Administration will provide the Keynote Address. Other notable presenters include Lester A. Snow, Director of California Department of Water Resources; Barry Nelson, Senior Policy Analyst for the Natural Resources Defense Council; Ron Gastelum, Executive Director of the Southern California Water Committee; Paula Daniels, Los Angeles Board of Public Works Commissioner and many more industry and business leaders.

The “Surfacing the Solutions,” forum is Thursday, November 12 at 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. at The Westin Bonaventure Hotel, Catalina Ballroom (3rd Floor), 404 S. Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, CA 90071. Media is invited to attend, and interview opportunities are available. For more information visit www.CoroLA.org, or call Karli Tanner at 213-346-3218.

November 10, 2009 · Filed Under Events

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Event: Next Steps in Solving California’s Water Crisis – What Can We Learn From Australia?

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on November 3, 2009 at 6:52 am

Hosted by the Sacramento Regional County Sanitation District, this special *free* event:

Like Californians, Australians love talking water.
And similar to California, in Australia, major debates about the future often revolve around water. In this presentation, you’ll hear from water expert Jim Keary on how the Australian water reform model was successful, how challenges were overcome and how the driest inhabited country on the planet put together a plan for solving their water problems.

SPECIAL INVITATION:

Next Steps in Solving California’s Water Crisis - What Can we Learn From Australia?

A special presentation featuring Jim Keary, General Manager, Hunter Water Australia

Internationally recognized expert in water allocation, institutional reform, asset management and many other water topics; author of several major publications

Tuesday, November 10th, 2009
9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Sacramento State Alumni Center
6000 J Street, Sacramento

8:45 to 9 a.m. – Check-in, continental breakfast
9 to 10 a.m. – Presentation by Jim Keary
10 to 11 a.m. – Questions and group discussion

This special FREE event is hosted by the Sacramento County Regional Sanitation District. To reserve your space, please RSVP by November 6th, 2009 via email to Claudia Goss at gossc@sacsewer.com .

November 3, 2009 · Filed Under Events

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Event: California water – Moving beyond myth

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on November 3, 2009 at 6:51 am

From the Public Policy Institute of California:

Date: December 8, 2009
Time: 9:00a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Location: CSAC Conference Center
1020 11th Street, 2nd Floor
Sacramento, CA

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

Water has been a hot topic this fall, with all eyes focused on a legislative package to address California’s water woes. The solutions coming out of Sacramento represent progress, but they are only first steps on a long path toward sustainable water management. This half-day event, coinciding with the release of a new PPIC report, California Water Myths, brings together the authors and other noted water experts to assess how we can rebuild public policy discussions about water on myth-free foundations, to continue with needed reforms.

Continental breakfast and lunch will be provided and there is no charge to attend. Pre-registration is requested.

This research is supported with funding by:
S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation
The David and Lucile Packard Foundation
Pisces Foundation
Resources Legacy Fund
Santa Ana Watershed Project Authority

Additional program and participant information is forthcoming.

November 3, 2009 · Filed Under Events

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“Tap Water: Drink of Choice” topic of new PBS segment; latest episode in the “California’s Water” series debuts Nov. 3

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on November 2, 2009 at 5:51 pm

From the Association of California Water Agencies:

“Sacramento, CA – The incredibly high quality of California’s drinking water is the focus of the latest segment of the “California’s Water” series for public television, produced by Huell Howser and underwritten by members of the Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA). The new segment debuts Nov. 3 in Sacramento and will air throughout the month on PBS affiliates around the state.

In “Tap Water: Drink of Choice,” Huell’s first stop is Chez Panisse, a five-star restaurant in Berkeley serving tap water exclusively to its customers. The restaurant’s water supplier, East Bay Municipal Water District, provides high quality, good tasting water for a fraction of the cost of bottled water.

Next, Huell stops by Los Vaqueros Reservoir, a water quality facility near Brentwood. There, he learns how the Contra Costa Water District stores high quality Delta water for use later when the weather conditions and river flow make Delta water salty.

During the last portion of the segment, Huell tours the sophisticated treatment facilities at the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, where cutting-edge techniques are used to treat water from the California and Los Angeles aqueducts.

“California’s drinking water is among the safest in the world,” Huell says. “And it’s delicious too!”

The segment will air at 7 p.m. Nov. 3 on KVIE in Sacramento and at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 13 on KCET in Los Angeles. It will air statewide on PBS stations (check local listings for details).

The “California’s Water” series began airing in April 2006 and covers issues identified in ACWA’s comprehensive policy document, “No Time to Waste: A Blueprint for California’s Water.” More than 20 segments have aired to date.

ACWA is a statewide association of public agencies whose 440 members are responsible for about 90% of the water delivered in California. For more information, contact ACWA at 916.441.4545 or visit www.acwa.com.

November 2, 2009 · Filed Under Events

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Last chance to register for symposium: Nature Needs Water Too: A Conference on the LA River

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on October 17, 2009 at 7:46 am

From the Los Angeles & San Gabriel Watershed Council:

Join the Los Angeles & San Gabriel Rivers Watershed Council and the

Aquarium of the Pacific for:

Nature Needs Water Too: A Conference on the LA River

Thursday, October 22nd, 2009

9:30am – 5:30pm (reception to follow)

Metropolitan Water District
700 N Alameda St.
Los Angeles, CA 90012 (map & parking)

With a keynote by Senator Fran Pavley, Co-author of AB 32

How do we ensure an appropriate allocation of water to the LA River’s riverine and estuarine ecosystems as water supplies decline and human demand increases? Join the Los Angeles & San Gabriel Rivers Watershed Council and the Aquarium of the Pacific for a discussion of this and other important questions related to the health of the LA River. Your charge will be to develop a five-point program for ensuring the LA River ecosystem has a seat at the table to receive its fair share of the water.

Speakers:

Senator Fran Pavley, 23rd District
Jerry Schubel, Aquarium of the Pacific
Suja Lowenthal, Long Beach City Council
Eric Stein, Southern California Coastal Water Research Project
Gary Lee Moore, City of Los Angeles
Sabrina Drill, University of California Cooperative Extension
Tom Erb, Los Angeles Department of Water and Power
Gary Hildebrand, Los Angeles County Department of Public Works

Moderated by Nancy L.C. Steele, LA & San Gabriel Rivers Watershed Council

Registration for this event is $50. Lunch included and reception to follow. To see the agenda and register, please visit the conference website here.

October 17, 2009 · Filed Under Events

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Western datebook: Drought meeting on Wednesday

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on October 11, 2009 at 8:05 am

From Emily Green at the Chance of Rain blog:

“The California State Board of Food and Agriculture will hold its first 2010 Drought Meeting looking at how fluctuating supply affects water quality. The board will hear from speakers from the Central Valley Water Quality Control Board and conduct a panel discussion on “actionable solutions with agricultural farm organizations, water districts and state officials.” …”

Read more from the Chance of Rain blog by clicking here.

October 11, 2009 · Filed Under Events

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Register now for the Water Education Foundation’s San Joaquin River Restoration Tour, November 12-13

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on October 5, 2009 at 6:50 am

From the Water Education Foundation:

After an 18-year legal battle, a settlement has been reached in Congress to restore dry portions of the San Joaquin River and return a healthy run of salmon to its waters. As the first interim flows begin this fall, get an inside look at this unprecedented project and hear how this will impact surrounding communities on the Water Education Foundation’s San Joaquin River Restoration Tour, November 12-13.

Participants on this tour will travel to areas of the river that are part of the settlement activities to learn about the timeline for the project and details of the flow restoration process. Experts on all sides of these issues will discuss the ins and outs of salmon spawning and potential habitat concerns, Central Valley Project/Friant Dam operations, gravel mining impacts and restoration efforts and how the project will affect groundwater supply. Participants will also learn about the history of the settlement and the goals, challenges and expectations for the river’s future.

The tour begins and ends in Fresno, and stops include the San Joaquin Fish Hatchery, a former gravel mining site, Mendota Pool, Friant Dam and Spillway, and Chowchilla Bifurcation Structure. The tour includes dinner at the famous Wool Growers Restaurant in Los Banos.

Don’t miss out on this tour as this milestone in California water history begins. Co-sponsored by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, Mid-Pacific Region, the registration fee is $435 per person or $360 each for two people sharing a room.

To find out more or register securely online, click here,or call the Foundation at (916) 444-6240 with questions.

The mission of the Water Education Foundation, an impartial non-profit organization, is to create a better understanding of water issues and help resolve water resource problems through educational programs.

October 5, 2009 · Filed Under Events

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Symposium: Nature Needs Water Too, October 22, 2009

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on October 1, 2009 at 3:58 pm

From the Los Angeles and San Gabriel Rivers Watershed Council:

Join the Los Angeles & San Gabriel Rivers Watershed Council and the Aquarium of the Pacific for:

Nature Needs Water Too

October 22nd, 2009

9:30am – 7:00pm

Metropolitan Water District
700 N Alameda St.
Los Angeles, CA 90012 (map & parking)

What happens to the ecology of the river as we increase recycling and infiltration to augment ground water supplies? How do we ensure healthy ecosystems, habitats and species at the same time that we attempt to bring stability to water supply and make the river friendlier to human uses? Join the Los Angeles & San Gabriel Rivers Watershed Council and the Aquarium of the Pacific for a discussion that attempts to answer these and other important questions related to the health of the LA River.

Speakers:

Senator Fran Pavley, 23rd District
Jerry Schubel, Aquarium of the Pacific
Suja Lowenthal, Long Beach City Council
Eric Stein, Southern California Coastal Water Research Project
Gary Moore, City of Los Angeles
Christine Whitcraft, California State University, Long Beach (invited)
Tom Erb, Los Angeles Department of Water and Power
Mark Pestrella, Los Angeles County Department of Public Works

Moderated by Nancy L.C. Steele, LA & San Gabriel Rivers Watershed Council

Registration for this event is $50. Lunch included and reception to follow. To see the agenda and register, please visit the conference website here.

October 1, 2009 · Filed Under Events

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Water Education Foundation’s Bay-Delta tour gives participants a lively and informative look at Delta issues

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on September 21, 2009 at 7:53 am

Rebecca Scott tells us about the Water Education Foundation’s Bay-Delta tour:

A great way to get a handle on the multitude of viewpoints about the current state of the Delta is to go on the Foundation’s Bay-Delta Tour. This summer’s tour was a chance to see beyond the action-packed show in the media, speak with the stakeholders involved, stand on the rolling peat levees that have settled and shifted and see the affects of subsidence as you peer down at a Delta island far below.

We always explain on our tours that you will hear various viewpoints, and this was certainly true on this tour. As with all things Delta, passionate and controversial is an understatement, and if you weren’t there to experience it firsthand, you missed out. …

September 21, 2009 · Filed Under Events

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California educators: Join us this fall for a Project WET workshop!

Posted by: Aqua Blog Maven on September 15, 2009 at 8:08 am

From the Water Education Foundation:

After a long hot California summer, many of us can’t wait for the rains to begin. But wait! Why are all the lakes and reservoirs so low? Why is my water district nagging me to cut back when water still shoots out of the tap? And what the heck is all the concern about something called ‘the first flush’?! Sign-up for a Project WET workshop this Fall to find answers to these questions and walk away from an excellent professional development experience with an activity guide full of interactive, interdisciplinary activities studying all aspects of water- and already correlated to California content standards and the California Environmental Education Initiative learning objectives!

Our workshops maximize the time engaged in hands-on activities, help educators become familiar with teacher designed features of the guide and provide opportunities to bounce implementation ideas around with fellow educators. Every Project WET activity was created by teachers for teachers and each incorporates nationally recognized education principles and practices. Project WET activities incorporate low cost materials and provide step-by-step instructions making the activities very popular with California educators of all levels of teaching experience. In addition, the Water Education Compendium jointly published by the State Departments of Water Resources and Education ranked Project WET as an “A+” program. Please visit the California Project WET page at: http://www.watereducation.org/doc.asp?id=1008 for a list of upcoming Project WET workshops in California- or contact your local water district to ask about the possibility of organizing a workshop near you!

September 15, 2009 · Filed Under Events

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