From News Line, a daily compilation of farm water news distributed to CFWC members and others upon request. To receive News Line, click here.
Coalition response…While some may think this idea of building a canal from other states to California is ridiculous, at least the letter-writer is attempting to solve a serious problem confronting California. The best and much less expensive alternative to bring a more reliable water supply to 25 million Californians and thousands of farmers in the San Joaquin Valley is the Bay Delta Conservation Plan and its proposed twin tunnels. Cost estimates to build the tunnels is about $14 billion and according to the benefits received water users will be paying the cost. Based on the per mile construction cost of the twin tunnels, a water conveyance facility from the Mississippi River to Central California could easily exceed $700 billion, or 50 times the cost currently under consideration.
Outside-the-box thinking is important. It helps frame the issue and makes sure we are on the right track for a feasible project.
