California Representatives Meet With Secretary Jewell of the U.S. Department of the Interior

June 19, 2013

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, several U.S. Representatives from northern California met with Secretary Sally Jewell of the U.S. Department of the Interior to discuss the Bay Delta Conservation Plan (BDCP).  The members expressed their opposition to Governor Jerry Brown’s flawed plan for the BDCP and lack of input from stakeholders in the Bay-Delta Region.

"This was an important opportunity to talk with Secretary Jewell about the future of California water and the vital need to restore the San Francisco Bay Delta and protect our north coast rivers. As one of the authors of California’s landmark 2009 water reforms, I continue to be concerned that the Bay Delta Conservation Plan (BDCP) is not on a path to meet the high standards and requirements established in that legislation.  I will be watching closely to ensure that the BDCP honors the letter and spirit of the law, restores our salmon runs, and protects the Trinity River."- Rep. Jared Huffman (CA-2)

“This afternoon, Secretary of the Interior Jewell met with a number of my colleagues and me at our request to discuss the Delta.  Our objective was to inform her of our deep concerns about the direction the BDCP appears to be heading, specifically Governor Brown’s plan to install two large-capacity tunnels to ship water to south of the Delta consumers.  Unfortunately, the Delta communities have been shut out of the decision-making process and it is essential that Secretary Jewell understand that this is unacceptable and counterproductive.  The Delta representatives are anxious to work collaboratively with all stakeholders to find a plan that is mutually satisfactory and beneficial.  Shutting out the voice of the Delta communities will not work.  I believe that the Secretary understood our concerns, and I look forward to working with her to find a solution that will satisfy the needs of the Bay-Delta region. ” - Rep. Jerry McNerney (CA-9)

“I’m very pleased Secretary Jewell took the time to consider our concerns with Governor Brown’s controversial Bay Delta Conservation Plan, and look forward to a sustained, fruitful dialogue in the future. It’s important the federal government understands the very real threats that exist under the current plan to the Bay-Delta’s environment, communities, families, businesses, the state's important salmon industry, as well as our farmers. Until sound science, a viable funding plan, and input from all stakeholders are taken into account, the Governor’s plan will fail California taxpayers and residents.” - Rep. George Miller (CA-11)

““I am happy that Secretary Jewel was able to hear our concerns about the Governor’s deeply flawed Bay Delta Conservation Plan. His plan recklessly risks billions of California tax dollars and thousands of jobs. We need a workable solution that is transparent, based on sound science and developed with all stake-holders at the table. I look forward to continuing the dialogue with Secretary Jewell so that we can make sure we get this right.” - Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-5)

““I was pleased that U.S. Department of Interior Secretary Jewell met with those of us who represent northern California in Congress to discuss our concerns with the current Bay Delta Conservation Plan (BDCP).  We reiterated our primary points including that the State, in partnership with the federal government, is on the verge of recommending a plan for California’s water future that does nothing to solve our state’s water problems.  It’s important that Secretary Jewell understands the negative ramifications of the BDCP on those who live and work in northern California.  Our constituents and stakeholders in the Bay Delta region have been completely shut out of the BDCP process, and considering that the project impacts would be in our backyard, this is unacceptable.  We can and we must do better for California.  Unfortunately, the current BDCP falls far short.” - Rep. Doris Matsui (CA-6)

“I appreciate Secretary Jewell meeting with Members of Congress from Northern California to discuss the Bay Delta Conservation Plan, which will have a greater impact in our districts than any other in California.  The current peripheral tunnel proposal could devastate the region without adding a single drop to our state’s water supply. We have the opportunity and the responsibility to change course.  I have outlined a comprehensive water plan that would protect the Delta and meet the water needs of all Californians through conservation, recycling, storage, levee improvements, a science-driven process, and the protection of existing water rights. I thank Secretary Jewell for listening to our concerns and hope this will be the beginning of a regular dialogue to consider how we can meet California’s water challenges.”- Rep. John Garamendi (CA-3)

“I’m pleased that Secretary Jewell agreed to meet with my colleagues and me today to discuss the Bay Delta Conservation Plan. All of us understand that water is critical to California, but it was important for us to explain that we need a Bay-Delta plan that includes input from all stakeholders, that is based on sound science, and that does not put south-of-delta interests ahead of everyone in or north-of-delta. Now, I hope she will take action to slow down Governor Brown’s flawed plan. It is absolutely critical for Sacramento County families that we look at all of our alternatives, and find a comprehensive, long-term solution. The livelihoods of our local farmers, anglers, and small business owners are at stake, and the potential risk to jobs and billions of California tax dollars is too big to ignore.” - Rep. Ami Bera (CA-7)

“I want to thank Secretary Jewell for meeting with several of my colleagues from Northern California. I remain hopeful that our input will be considered, particularly our concerns surrounding the Bay Delta. Protecting the fragile ecosystem of the Delta is essential to ensuring the health of our communities, and I will continue to fight to protect our environment across the Bay Area, California, and the country as a whole.” - Rep. Barbara Lee (CA-13)

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