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HomeEnvironmental ImpactsTrump's order to release water from dams did not benefit farms or...

Trump’s order to release water from dams did not benefit farms or L.A. as expected.

“Trump’s Water Release from California Dams Leaves Farmers and Residents Perplexed”

Days after President Trump ordered the Army Corps of Engineers to release water from two dams in California’s San Joaquin Valley, confusion and criticism have ensued. The sudden release of water, which flowed down river channels and into irrigation systems, has left many perplexed.

Tom Barcellos, president of the Lower Tule River Irrigation District, expressed concern over the release of water during a time when it is not typically needed for agriculture. The water, which would have been better utilized for summer irrigation, instead replenished groundwater, leading to potential water shortages for farmers in the upcoming dry season.

Critics, including local water activists and members of Congress, have accused the Trump administration of using the water release as a political statement to showcase the president’s authority over federal water resources. The move has raised questions about the impact on smaller farmers and the delicate balance of California’s water system.

The Army Corps of Engineers began releasing large flows from the dams after Trump’s visit to Los Angeles, where he promised to increase water deliveries to the region. Despite record levels of water in Southern California reservoirs, the releases continued, lowering the levels of Lake Success and Lake Kaweah.

Water scientist Peter Gleick criticized the administration’s actions, stating that billions of gallons of water were wasted for political showmanship. Local water managers were caught off-guard by the releases, which were not coordinated in advance as is customary.

In response to the criticism, the Lower Tule irrigation district and other water associations issued a statement emphasizing the complexity of California’s water operations and the need for careful management. The water released from the dams was intended for groundwater recharge and other environmental purposes.

Democratic members of Congress have demanded answers from the Trump administration regarding the water releases, expressing concerns about the impact on downstream communities and water supplies. Rep. Jim Costa raised alarm about the unscheduled release of water and its potential consequences for the upcoming irrigation season.

Despite the controversy, some local water managers see a silver lining in the water releases, noting that it could help address overpumping and declining water levels in the region. Matt Hurley, general manager of the McMullin Area Groundwater Sustainability Agency, sees the releases as an opportunity to recharge groundwater and mitigate the effects of chronic overpumping.

Overall, the sudden release of water from the dams in California’s San Joaquin Valley has sparked debate and raised questions about the management of water resources in the state. The long-term implications of the releases remain uncertain, but the incident has underscored the complexity and sensitivity of California’s water system.

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