The Restore the Delta’s mission is to save the San Francisco Bay-Delta estuary for our children and future generations. Since the State Water Resources Control Board has failed to update the Bay-Delta Water Quality Control Plan for 20 years, it is time to get it done, or get out of the way for the EPA.
What You Can Do
Go to Restore the Delta web site to sign up to receive emails. You will receive (1) Updates on breaking news, (2) Petitions to sign, and (3) Sample emails to send to members on local water board.
Background
The two 40 foot wide tunnels will destroy the Delta, the largest estuary on the coast of North and South America and home to critical habitat. According to a National Science Foundation study in 2013, California already is pumping too much water out of the Delta. Even during the drought, the pumps have not been shut down. Studies on European estuaries have found that pumping more than 20% causes permanent damage to their estuaries. The tunnels will not produce one new drop of water and will cost billions to build, billions that should be spent to educate our children, make college affordable, build affordable housing, and improve our transportation systems – and create more jobs in more industries!
Supporters of the Tunnels: As you know this is a pet project of Governor Jerry Brown. It has been pushed by Stuart Resnick (corporate agriculture) and the Westlands and Metropolitan Water Districts. They wanted a 50 year guarantee of water in exchange for funding part of the construction costs. The US Fisheries and Wildlife agency has not agreed to give that guarantee, making some question the value of the project. Yet the proponents continue to push forward, acquiring land even without environmental approvals.
Plan of Action: While attorneys and others evaluate the EIR and their legal options, Restore the Delta is coordinating grass roots opposition with the public and environmental organizations. The comment period ends on October 30th. It is critically important for our voices to be heard. The opposition has deep pockets. We rely on a strong, committed grass roots organization. Please take a minute to add your name to the petition.