Wolk testifies in Congress on San Joaquin River settlement

Assemblywoman cites benefits to Delta and balancing demands on water

WASHINGTON, D.C.–Assemblywoman Lois Wolk, Chair of the Committee on Water, Parks & Wildlife, testified today in support of the proposed settlement of decades-long litigation over the San Joaquin River.  At a hearing of the House Subcommittee on Water and Power, she urged Congress to pass legislation to implement the settlement.

Wolk emphasized the settlement's balanced benefits for water supply reliability and San Joaquin River restoration, and the opportunity to resolve the matter out of court. "This settlement offers all of us an opportunity to move beyond conflict. Water conflicts – particularly court litigation – simply cost too much.  It costs money to pay our advocates – the lawyers and expert witnesses.  It costs time and missed opportunities."

Wolk also noted the benefits to the Delta water quality and fishery needs, in a time when the Delta ecosystem is in crisis: "Introducing additional flows into the Delta may assist California in addressing the root causes of the Delta ecosystem crisis."

Wolk acknowledged that the settlement would not fully satisfy advocates for the fishery but noted it was an improvement.  “Let us keep in mind our starting point – a dead river – and a basic fact – fish need water for life.  Breathing life-giving water back into this river – even if not as much as some suggested would be required – is better for the fishery than dry sand."

Wolk committed to support State legislation to implement the settlement in a balanced way, noting her advocacy for this year's State funding that supports the settlement.  "With our two legislative bodies working together, I have no doubt that we will succeed in making this settlement a great success,” concluded Wolk.