Restore the Delta Action Alert - Public Meeting in Sacramento on Jan. 16

Dear Friend,
 
On January 16th, the State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Water Rights, will be holding a public meeting to evaluate conducting a study to change standards for salinity in the South Delta.
 
On the surface, such a discussion may seem harmless enough.  The problem is that interests in Southern California would like to see such a study conducted in a laboratory outside of the Delta because the end result could present an alerted picture that would allow for more fresh water exports out of the California Delta.
 
Twenty years ago, Terry Prichard, UC Cooperative Extension Water Management Specialist, conducted the research using Delta soils that set the salinity standard at .7 EC (Electrical Conductivity).  While that number may represent something abstract to the average Delta citizen, it has served as a marker for water quality that supports robust Delta agriculture, a cornerstone of the Delta economy.  Salinity set at this level also supports our local ecosystem.
 
If the State Water Resources Control Board okays a study that would be conducted in a lab with soils that are different than South Delta soils, then there would be a flawed scientific basis for raising the salinity standard, that in turn, would allow for increased fresh water exports.
 
Raising the salinity standard would open the door for a change in the ecosystem that would have a negative impact on area cropping patterns and wildlife habitat, while making conditions more favorable for invasive species.
 
Restore the Delta believes that even considering an alteration in the salinity standard for the South Delta at a time when the Delta is experiencing a severe ecological crisis exemplifies poor water quality management practices.  Moreover, making changes that would result in a negative impact on local agriculture is also very harmful to our regional economy.  A healthy ecosystem is the foundation for a healthy local economy.
 
So, here’s what you can do.  You can either join representatives from Restore the Delta at 9:50 a.m. on January 16thfor a quick pre-meeting briefing.  The agenda does not indicate that there will be time for public comments, as numerous presentations will be given.  However, we can show our enthusiasm through applause etc. for presentations that favor stopping flawed studies and not changing the salinity standard.

Or, you can send an email toBarbara [at] restorethedelta.org indicating that altering the salinity standard for the South Delta at a time when the Delta is experiencing a severe ecological crisis is wrong because such a change in the ecosystem would have a negative impact on wildlife and local agriculture.  I will collect the emails and make sure that they make their way into the hands of the officials in charge.
 
If you would like to attend the meeting, it will be held at the Cal EPA Building, Sierra Hearing Room, 1001 I Street,Sacramento.  Be sure to bring a picture i.d. and allow 15 minutes for passing through security.  Public parking is available in lots on I & J Streets.  We will meet in the Sierra Hearing Room; a Restore the Delta sign will be visible.
 
As always, thank you for your support.
 
Best regards,
 
 
Barbara Barrigan-Parrilla
Campaign Director
Restore the Delta
Making the Delta fishable, swimmable, drinkable, and farmable by 2010!
Barbara [at] restorethedelta.org
http://www.restorethedelta.org
ph: 209-479-2053
PO Box 691088
Stockton, CA 95269