The US Army Corps of Engineers released approximately 2.2 billion gallons of water from two Central California reservoirs at President Trump’s order, purportedly to aid fire-ravaged Southern California. This action, however, is criticized for its lack of coordination with state and local water managers and its wasteful timing during a wet winter, jeopardizing agricultural water supplies later in the year. The released water did not reach Los Angeles, as it flowed into the Tulare Lake bed, offering limited irrigation benefits and potentially causing future water shortages for Central Valley farmers. Experts and state officials express deep concern over this poorly planned release.
Read More
Trump claims he unleashed a torrent of water upon California, solving its water woes. Local officials, however, paint a drastically different picture, arguing that his actions brought the state perilously close to devastating floods.
The core of the disagreement hinges on the timing and manner of water releases from reservoirs. Trump’s pronouncements celebrate the release of billions of gallons of water as a triumph, a victory in his ongoing battle against what he perceives as California’s mismanagement of its water resources. This celebratory tone starkly contrasts with the apprehension and alarm felt by local officials.
Their perspective emphasizes the abruptness and scale of the water release.… Continue reading
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers significantly increased water releases from Terminus and Schafer Dams in Tulare County, California, a move spurred by an executive order seemingly linked to President Trump’s pronouncements. These releases, totaling billions of gallons, were made without typical coordination with state and local officials, causing concern among water managers and farmers who rely on these reservoirs for irrigation. The timing, during winter with low demand and minimal snowpack, and lack of a clear water transportation plan, have drawn sharp criticism and questions regarding the decision-making process and potential negative impacts on agriculture and communities. State officials have emphasized the lack of consultation and the current absence of a need for the released water.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood