For Immediate Release: March 20, 2024
Contact:
Alexandra Nagy, alexandra@sunstonestrategies.org, 818-633-0865
Stockton, Calif — The recent ruling upholding the Bay-Delta Plan marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to protect the delicate balance of our state’s water resources and ecosystems. As the court affirmed, science-based flow standards are essential for safeguarding the health of the Delta and its vital ecosystems.
However, amidst this legal validation, concerns arise regarding Governor Newsom’s approach to implementing the Bay-Delta Plan. While the court’s decision underscores the importance of prioritizing environmental stewardship, Governor Newsom’s delay in completing and implementing the plan in favor of voluntary agreements raises serious questions.
Barbara Barrigan-Parrilla, Executive Director with Restore the Delta, released the following statement:
“While not fully protective of the estuary, the ruling to uphold the Bay-Delta Plan shows that science-based flow standards for the Delta matter and underscores the necessity of prioritizing science-driven policies to ensure the well-being of our communities and the sustainability of our ecosystems.”
“We urge Governor Newsom to reconsider his approach and prioritize the implementation of the Bay-Delta Plan in its entirety, ensuring that the health of the Delta and the interests of our communities are adequately safeguarded. Environmental stewardship should not be compromised for political expediency, and we call on the governor to honor the court’s ruling and uphold the integrity of our state’s water management policies.”