Re: “Trump takes steps to overhaul CA water delivery,” Free Lance, Jan. 24
Ever driven over Pacheco Pass? It’s a stunning spot, especially when you see the San Luis Reservoir. Once a dry valley, it now holds a lot of water, flowing briskly through canals that feed Southern California. You can catch a glimpse of the Delta-Mendota and California Canals as you drive. These canals are vital for transporting water, showcasing California’s complex water delivery system.
For more beautiful sights, visiting Shasta Dam or any of California’s many dams is a treat. Each one tells a story about how water shapes life here. My personal favorite is a dam in the Sierra Mountains that turned a timber area into Pinecrest Lake. This lake, fed by snowmelt, supports recreation and generates hydroelectric power for the region.
When we talk about water delivery in California, it’s crucial to consider the current state. Trump’s remarks about the desperate need for water in Southern California don’t quite match reality. The demand has surged, leading to temporary drains in some storage areas, but overall, the state has plenty of water from its canals, rivers, and dams.
Trump’s stance on prioritizing people over fish needs more context. Yes, it’s about supporting agriculture and communities, but we can’t forget the fish species that rely on healthy waterways. This includes not just smelt but also salmon and trout. The talk about “water wasting” as it moves toward the ocean overlooks the importance of estuaries—those unique areas where fresh and saltwater mingle. These habitats are essential for many species, including birds and other wildlife.
Healthy ecosystems benefit everyone. They’re not just about fish or rivers; they support life itself. In the end, we all rely on these environments for our well-being.
Mary Zanger
Hollister
