Vision2061 Program-Final 10-7-11

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ISION 2061 KERN COUNTY WATER AGENCY V

Transcript of Vision2061 Program-Final 10-7-11

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ISION 2061KERN COUNTY WATER AGENCY

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Historical Timeline

19611963

1968 1971

1975 1977

1961: KCWA FormedThe Kern County Water Agency (Agency) was created in 1961 by a special act of the State Legislature and serves as the local contracting entity for the California State Water Project (SWP).

1975: Cross Valley Canal was ConstructedIn an effort to increase flexibility of water deliveries to residents and farmers alike, the Cross Valley Canal (CVC) was constructed in 1975 to move SWP water from the California Aqueduct to urban Bakersfield. The CVC spans a total of 21.5 miles. The first 17 miles are concrete-lined to minimize water losses, while the remaining section is unlined to facilitate ongoing percolation (recharge).

1971: Improvement District No. 4 CreatedIn 1971, the Agency Board of Directors (Board) formed Improvement District No. 4 (ID4) to provide a supplemental water supply for portions of the metropolitan Bakersfield area through the importation of water from the SWP and ensure that future generations have a reliable source of drinking water.

1963: Execution of Water Supply Contract On November 15, 1963, the Agency executed a contract with the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) to receive up to one million acre-feet of firm water supply from the SWP.

1977: Agency Water Purification Plant Completed First treated water deliveries occurred in 1977 with a total of 15,950 acre-feet delivered.

1968: First Water from California Aqueduct Comes to Kern County127,384 acre-feet of SWP water were delivered and used in Kern County in 1968. Since deliveries have begun, about 33 million acre-feet have been delivered for use within Kern County using SWP facilities.

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1994 1998

2011 2012

1994: Monterey Amendment signed and Implemented in 1995

1995: Kern Water Bank Acquired by Agency from DWR then Transferred to the Kern Water Bank AuthorityBetween 1977 and 2005, Kern County invested more than $300 million to build its groundwater banking infrastructure throughout the county. The banks can store approximately 5.7 million acre-feet of water during wet years, and through pumping, extract water for use during dry years.

2011: Completion of Treated Water Capacity Expansion Project In response to declining groundwater quality and to meet additional demands in the growing Bakersfield area, the Agency, in consultation with Improvement District No. 4 water purveyors, began developing the Treated Water Capacity Expansion Project in 2001 for the expansion of existing facilities, and construction of new pump stations and pipelines to deliver treated water to the north, northwest and east portions of metropolitan Bakersfield. The Project included construction of a large-scale solar power project and electrical substation.

2012: CVC Expansion – (Final Phase March 2012)The CVC Expansion Project began in 2005 to expand the ability to accept imported water. This represents incredible infrastructure, with the CVC connecting to the California Aqueduct, local banking projects and districts, the Agency’s Henry C. Garnett Water Purification Plant and the Friant Kern Canal. The expansion increased the CVC’s capacity and water supply reliability by approximately 54 percent, allowing 1,422 cubic-feet-per-second maximum flow.

1998: Pioneer Project Formally EstablishedThe Pioneer Project was established to implement the construction and operation of groundwater recharge and recovery facilities. The Agency purchased the 2,253 acres of land located west of Allen Road and south of Stockdale Highway in 1992. The Pioneer Project is one of the banking programs essential to Kern County’s water management and has storage copacity of approximately 500,000 acre-feet. In December 2010, the Agency Board passed a resolution ceremoniously renaming the Pioneer Project the “Thomas N. Clark Recharge and Banking Project” in honor of its former General Manager Tom Clark.

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October 21, 2011

Welcome to Kern County and Vision 2061!

On behalf of the Kern County Water Agency (Agency) Board of Directors, staff and our local water

partners, we are honored that you have joined us today as we reflect on the past, present and look to

the future to preserve California’s most precious natural resource.

Fifty years ago, California had a governor named Brown, water was a big issue and Kern County

was critical to the State’s future. At that time, Governor Edmund G. “Pat” Brown knew that the

formation of the Kern County Water Agency was critical to the success of the State Water Project

(SWP)—an essential component of California’s infrastructure.

Today, the governor is again a Brown, water remains a big issue and Kern County and the Agency

continue to play a critical role. This year the Agency celebrates its 50th anniversary, knowing it has

helped shape federal, State and local water policy issues to benefit families, farms, businesses and

the environment.

Created by a special act of the California Legislature in 1961, and approved by Kern County voters,

the Agency was initially envisioned as the local contracting entity for the SWP. During the last

five decades, a great number of people have contributed to the Agency’s success—investing time,

knowledge and a commitment to our region. The result is that the Agency has become an international

model for water resources management.

Kern County is home to one of the world’s most innovative groundwater banking operations.

This is due to the foresight of local water leaders decades ago and capital investments of more

than $300 million between 1977 and 2005. In addition to groundwater and groundwater banking

responsibilities, the Agency provides a supplemental water supply to metropolitan Bakersfield

through its Improvement District No. 4. The Agency also facilitates, through the Cross Valley Canal,

complicated water movement along the California Aqueduct, the Friant-Kern Canal and Kern

County groundwater banking projects and water districts. Many professionals work diligently to

ensure that, for generations to come, Kern County’s economy can continue to sustain thousands of

local jobs that feed millions.

It is clear today that visionaries in the 1950s and 1960s provided water leadership for generations of

Californians. In the last half century, the issues surrounding California’s water infrastructure and

management have become even more complex. We hope that in 2061, California water managers

and others will reflect on another 50 years of foresight and innovation by those of us currently

entwined in resolving statewide water issues.

That is our Vision 2061 mission, and it begins today. Federal, State and local leaders must forge long-

term solutions to protect the water supply that feeds families, farms, businesses and the environment.

California’s future depends on it.

Michael Radon, Kern County Water Agency Board of Directors President

Let’s shape history.

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“Water is the lifeblood of our Valley. For 50 years, the Kern County Water Agency has been one of the nation’s leaders on water policy and has remained committed to protecting and advancing our water needs. The future prosperity of our region depends on cooperation and vision from organizations like the Agency to find both short and long-term fixes for California’s broken water system. I applaud the Agency’s half-century of work and dedication to improving the quantity and quality of water in the Valley.”

Jim Costa20th District Congressman

United States House of Representatives

“For a half century, the Kern County Water Agency has served the region and shaped California water management. By investing in a state-of-the-art groundwater banking system, the Agency is an international model and a careful steward of our most precious natural resource. Congratulations on 50 years of leadership and best wishes for many more!”

Kevin McCarthy22nd District Congressman and Majority Whip

United States House of Representatives

Division 4 – Michael Radon, President

Division 1 – Ted R. Page

Division 2 – Terry Rogers

Division 3 – Randell Parker

Division 5 – Adrienne J. Mathews

Division 6 – William W. Van Skike

Division 7 – Gene A. Lundquist

Kern County Water Agency

Directors

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Agenda8:00 a.m. Registration & Continental Breakfast

9:00 a.m. Welcoming Remarks

Special Preview: California State of Mind – The Legacy of Pat Brown

Panel 1 – The Past: Looking back at the State Water Project (1961-Present)

10:30 a.m. Break

10:45 a.m. Panel 2 – The Present: Where do we stand and what are the immediate challenges?

Bakersfield College - Gymnasium

Bakersfield College - Cafeteria12:00 p.m. Luncheon

12:30 p.m. The Honorable Kevin McCarthy, Congressman and Majority Whip, United States House of Representatives

Bakersfield College - Gymnasium1:30 p.m. The Honorable Jim Costa, Congressman, United States House of Representatives

2:00 p.m. Panel 3 – Vision 2061: Where do we go from here?

3:00 p.m. Closing Remarks

Congressman Kevin McCarthy was born in Bakersfield, California and was first elected to represent the 22nd District of California in the United States House of Representatives in November 2006. He was elected to his third term in November 2010 and was chosen by his colleagues to serve as the Majority Whip in the 112th Congress. McCarthy is committed to helping small businesses succeed. Before his 21st birthday, McCarthy successfully opened and operated a small business, Kevin O’s Deli. Owning a small business gave McCarthy important experience regarding the difficulties entrepreneurs face from burdensome regulations and onerous taxes. As a former small business owner, he understands firsthand how government overregulation can hamper job creation and economic growth, and has made it a priority in Congress to fight for policies that lower the costs and burdens of doing business in America. Kevin and his wife, Judy, have two children: Connor and Meghan.

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Panelists8:00 a.m. Registration & Continental Breakfast

9:00 a.m. Welcoming Remarks

Special Preview: California State of Mind – The Legacy of Pat Brown

Panel 1 – The Past: Looking back at the State Water Project (1961-Present)

10:30 a.m. Break

10:45 a.m. Panel 2 – The Present: Where do we stand and what are the immediate challenges?

12:00 p.m. Luncheon

12:30 p.m. The Honorable Kevin McCarthy, Congressman and Majority Whip, United States House of Representatives

1:30 p.m. The Honorable Jim Costa, Congressman, United States House of Representatives

2:00 p.m. Panel 3 – Vision 2061: Where do we go from here?

3:00 p.m. Closing Remarks

Terry Erlewine Executive Director – State Water ContractorsTerry Erlewine is the Executive Director of the State Water Contractors (SWC) and has devoted his entire career to California water supply management and planning. He is directly responsible for timely completion of facilities; assisting to ensure proper and efficient operations; protection of water rights needed by the SWP and the SWC member agencies; review and coordination of litigation affecting the SWP; presentation of views to legislative and administrative agencies, stakeholders, and the general public; and development and maintenance of an ongoing public information program. In addition to these and other responsibilities, Mr. Erlewine oversees the SWC’s participation in the current and developing framework for managing water supply and ecological issues within the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta.

The Honorable Jean Fuller State Senator – 18th DistrictSenator Jean Fuller was elected to the State Senate in 2010 and represents the largest geographic district in California, including California’s agricultural homeland, Kern and Tulare Counties, the desert communities of Inyo County and the mountains of San Bernardino County. She previously represented the 32nd Assembly District since 2006. Senator Fuller lives in Bakersfield and is the co-owner of her family farm. During her tenure in the Assembly, Senator Fuller served as the leader of the Republican Water Policy Team, which focused on finding solutions to California’s water crisis to ensure sufficient water supplies for families, farms and businesses in the Central Valley.

Jim Beck General Manager – Kern County Water AgencyJim Beck is the General Manager of the Kern County Water Agency, one of California’s leading organizations serving agricultural and urban customers. The Agency has broad water supply management responsibilities within Kern County, and he has been instrumental in many programs that have placed the Agency at the forefront of water management and infrastructure. The Agency participates in the State Water Project, has developed and operates groundwater banking programs and the Cross Valley Canal. Mr. Beck also plays a leadership role, working with federal, State and local officials, helping to forge a statewide water solution as part of the Bay Delta Conservation Plan. He is a licensed water treatment operator, certified water distribution operator and water quality analyst.

Mark CowinDirector – California Department of Water ResourcesMark W. Cowin was appointed Director of the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) in 2010, after working for DWR for more than three decades. Under his leadership, DWR conserves and manages the operation of the SWP, the largest state-run, multi-purpose water and power system in the United States. The SWP provides a supplemental water source for 23 million Californians, and about 750,000 acres of farmland and supports $400 billion in annual economic activity.

Jeffrey KightlingerGeneral Manager & Chief Executive Officer – The Metropolitan Water District of Southern CaliforniaJeffrey Kightlinger is General Manager and Chief Executive Officer of The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (Metropolitan). He is responsible for directing its activities to fulfill Metropolitan’s mission of delivering high-quality water to 19 million residents in Southern California. Previously, he served as Metropolitan’s General Counsel, representing the District in environmental issues and water right matters. Before joining Metropolitan in 1995, Mr. Kightlinger worked in private practice representing numerous public agencies, including municipalities, redevelopment agencies and special districts.

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Gerald Meral, Ph.D.Deputy Secretary – California Natural Resources AgencyGerald Meral, Ph.D., was appointed California Natural Resources Agency Deputy Secretary for the Bay Delta Conservation Plan (BDCP) on Jan. 19, 2011. Dr. Meral is charged with guiding completion of the BDCP to restore the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta (Delta) ecosystem and create water supply reliability for California. In addition, he is responsible for the development of any revenue and funding proposals necessary to complete the plan. Dr. Meral was Executive Director of the Planning and Conservation League from 1983 to 2003. He previously served as Deputy Director of the California Department of Water Resources from 1975 to 1983 under Governor Brown and Director of the Western Water Program of the Environmental Defense Fund from 1971 to 1975. Dr. Meral holds a Ph.D. in Zoology from the University of California, Berkeley. He received a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Michigan.

Daniel G. NelsonExecutive Director – San Luis & Delta-Mendota Water AuthorityDaniel G. Nelson has worked on California water resource issues for over 30 years. Mr. Nelson has been the Executive Director of the San Luis & Delta-Mendota Water Authority since its inception in 1992. Prior to his current position, he was the General Manager of the San Luis Water District, General Manager of the Broadview Water District and worked in the Operations Division for the San Luis Canal Company. Professional activities include past President of the California Irrigation Institute; participation in the California Agricultural Leadership Program; appointee to the Bay-Delta Advisory Committee and Governor Gray Davis’ Agricultural & Water Transition Task Force and the California Bay-Delta Public Advisory Committee. Mr. Nelson was recently awarded the Excellence in Water Leadership Award for 2011 by the Association of California Water Agencies.

Timothy Quinn Executive Director – Association of California Water AgenciesAs Executive Director of the Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA), Timothy Quinn leads the largest water organization of its kind in the nation. Its 450 public water agency members are responsible for about 90 percent of the water delivered in California. Mr. Quinn has more than 25 years of experience in California water issues. Prior to joining ACWA, Mr. Quinn served as Deputy General Manager of The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California and represented the district on numerous statewide issues since 1994.

Clifford W. SchulzSenior Attorney – Kronick, Moskovitz, Tiedemann & GirardClifford W. Schulz is one of California’s most respected resource management attorneys representing both public and private clients, including the SWP Contractors. He specializes in water, environmental and real property issues. Mr. Schultz is an expert on the SWP and the Central Valley Project, as well as the Delta. He works closely with a broad coalition of water users on the CALFED process, which has a goal of finding balanced solutions to water supply and fishery issues in the Delta and San Francisco Bay.

Ed TiedemannSenior Attorney – Kronick, Moskovitz, Tiedemann & GirardEd Tiedemann is Special Counsel to the Kern County Water Agency and has more than four decades of experience representing public agencies and private clients, specializing in water and natural resource matters. Additionally, Mr. Tiedemann serves as General Counsel to Placer County Water Agency, Kings River Conservation District and as Counsel to the ACWA Joint Powers Insurance Authority.

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PANEL 1The Past: Looking back at the State Water Project (1961-Present) ISION 20

61KERN COUNTY WATER AGENCY

VThe State Water Project (SWP) works to meet the State’s evolving water supply needs and changing environmental regulations. The SWP is not a static project operating the same today as it did when it began. This panel focuses on three examples of how the SWP has evolved over the past 50 years.

• Decentralizing Water Management • Shifting Risk to Local Decision-Makers • Monterey Agreement

(Moderator)

Pan

elis

ts Terry Erlewine Executive Director – State Water Contractors

Timothy Quinn Executive Director – Association of California Water Agencies

Clifford W. SchulzSenior Attorney – Kronick, Moskovitz, Tiedemann & Girard

Beau Goldie Chief Executive Officer – Santa Clara Valley Water District Beau Goldie leads the Santa Clara Valley Water District, the water management agency for Santa Clara County’s 1.8 million people. He is focused on leading the District’s unique integrated water resources mission, which includes the supply of clean, safe water; flood protection and stewardship of streams. Mr. Goldie joined the District in 1984 as an engineer and has worked in water supply planning, groundwater protection, environmental compliance and watershed programs. Before being appointed as CEO, he served as Chief Operating Officer for Capital Programs Services.

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PANEL 2ISION 2061KERN COUNTY WATER AGENCY

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Mike WadeExecutive Director – California Farm Water CoalitionMike Wade joined the California Farm Water Coalition (CFWC), a statewide nonprofit organization headquartered in Sacramento, as Executive Director in 1998. He oversees the organization’s public education and media relations efforts and serves as contact for California’s irrigated agriculture industry.

In addition to his duties as CFWC Executive Director, Mr. Wade is the Executive Director of the Agricultural Water Management Council (AWMC). The Council is a clearinghouse for agricultural water suppliers in the process of developing efficient water management practices resulting from the Agricultural Water Suppliers Efficient Water Management Act (AB 3616).

Prior to joining the CFWC and AWMC, Mr. Wade served 11 years as the Executive Director of the Merced County Farm Bureau. During that time he represented agricultural interests while appearing at hearings at the county, State and national levels. Specific areas of interest and work included: land use, agricultural marketing, State air regulations, public relations and labor.

(Moderator)

The Honorable Jean Fuller State Senator – 18th District

Gerald Meral, Ph.D.Deputy Secretary – California Natural Resources Agency

Ed TiedemannSenior Attorney – Kronick, Moskovitz, Tiedemann & Girard

Pan

elis

ts Jim Beck General Manager – Kern County Water Agency

Mark CowinDirector – California Department of Water Resources

Jeffrey KightlingerGeneral Manager & Chief Executive Officer – The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California

Daniel G. NelsonExecutive Director – San Luis & Delta-Mendota Water Authority

Discussing the immediate issues that are impacting California’s water management and infrastructure including:

• Bay Delta Conservation Plan• 2012 Water Bond• Operation and Maintenance of the State Water Project

The Present: Where do we stand and what are California’s immediate water challenges?

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The Honorable Jean Fuller State Senator – 18th District

Gerald Meral, Ph.D.Deputy Secretary – California Natural Resources Agency

Ed TiedemannSenior Attorney – Kronick, Moskovitz, Tiedemann & Girard

PANEL 3 ISION 2061KERN COUNTY WATER AGENCY

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Seeking to resolve the current water challenges facing a continuously growing California and implementing corresponding solutions.

• Merge the State Water Project (SWP) and Central Valley Project (CVP) • Shift Operation and Ownership of the SWP to Local Agencies• Generate Big Ideas to Protect California’s Water Resources

(Moderator)

Pan

elis

ts Jim Beck General Manager – Kern County Water Agency

Mark CowinDirector – California Department of Water Resources

Jeffrey KightlingerGeneral Manager & Chief Executive Officer – The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California

Daniel G. NelsonExecutive Director – San Luis & Delta-Mendota Water Authority

Byron BuckExecutive Director – State and Federal Water Contractors Agency Byron Buck is the Executive Director of the State and Federal Contractors Water Agency, a Joint Powers Authority made up of contractors from the SWP and CVP. He has a 30-year background in water resources and environmental planning, having operated a consulting practice for 10 years and serving in executive capacities for water agencies, special districts and nonprofit corporations. Mr. Buck has written numerous urban water management plans and water supply assessments for both northern and southern California. He is also a published author in the field of urban water supply reliability planning and was the 1989 Samuel C. May award recipient from the Western Governmental Research Association for a paper on water marketing in California.

Vision 2061: Where do we go from here?

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Thoughts & Accolades

“I congratulate the Kern County Water Agency on its 50 years of advocating, enhancing, managing, preserving and planning for Kern County’s water needs. The Agency has developed a reputation of being in the forefront of issues affecting the State’s water system; working to find common sense solutions to the benefit of its water users and the local economy. I am certain that we will appreciate the same exceptional service from the Agency for another 50 years and many more years thereafter.”

California State Senator Jean Fuller – District 18

“The adage, ‘Water is life’ holds more meaning in the San Joaquin Valley than perhaps anywhere else in our state. The Kern County Water Agency understands the connection between a reliable water supply and a strong economic future for our region. For the past half century, they have worked tirelessly to meet the needs of the valley’s families, farms and businesses. With the Agency focused on being a part of a long-term solution to California’s ongoing water challenges, I have no doubt that they will continue to be successful now and for generations to come.”

California State Assembly Republican Leader Connie Conway – District 34

“Water is the lifeblood of the Central Valley economy. Whether being used for agriculture or municipal purposes, water is essential to our prosperity as a region. As the Assemblyman for a significant portion of Kern County, it is vital to recognize the importance of the local water agency. I would like to congratulate the Kern County Water Agency on 50 years of protecting and improving Kern County’s water supply. We should thank those who work, and have worked, at the Agency for their dedication over the last 50 years.”

California State Assembly Member David Valadao – District 30

“The people who are part of the agricultural economy of Kern County grow over 250 varieties of crops; more than any other county in the nation. Our tremendous agricultural prowess requires water and in order for our agricultural legacy to thrive; continued access to water is vital. Water helps Kern County to feed the world; it is essential for both the success of our local economy and sustenance on the nation’s dinner tables. The Kern County Water Agency has been a valuable steward of our county’s water supply for the past 50 years and I trust that the Agency will continue to do great things far into the future. Congratulations on your 50th anniversary, KCWA!”

California State Assembly Member Shannon Grove – District 32

“Leadership extends far beyond the immediate, requiring commitment and vision that will create long-lasting and positive effects. For 50 years, the Kern County Water Agency has provided true leadership by working collaboratively with diverse stakeholders to develop a long-term solution to California’s water crisis. The Agency serves as an example to other agencies for its vision and commitment to strategic planning and efficient management of the scarce water resources so vital to Kern County’s agricultural economy, as well as Californians statewide.”

California State Senator Michael Rubio – District 16

“I am most pleased to congratulate the Kern County Water Agency on its 50th anniversary. I would like to join with many others in sending my best wishes to your organization. The Agency is an acknowledged leader in water resources management, environmental protection, groundwater banking operations and water policy. Your innovation throughout the years has set the standard for excellence in water quality, reliability, and infrastructure. I am certain that the Agency will continue to sustain our jobs and the economy because of your continued stewardship. Again, congratulations on a prosperous 50 years! You have the passion and expertise to preserve our water resources for generations to come.”

Kern County Board of Supervisors Chairman Mike Maggard – 3rd District

“The Kern County Water Agency is one of the premier water agencies in California, providing leadership in California’s water management and planning debates. In 50 years, the Agency has shown great vision and engaged successful long-term planning strategies that will continue to serve Kern County and California well for generations to come.”

Kern County Supervisor Ray Watson – 4th District

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“The City of Bakersfield and the Kern County Water Agency have worked collaboratively on a number of important water infrastructure projects that serve the residents and businesses in Metropolitan Bakersfield. The Agency’s commitment to long-term planning has served our city well and we are confident that same commitment will extend through 2061 and beyond.”

City of Bakersfield Mayor Harvey Hall

“The City of Arvin offers its congratulations to the Kern County Water Agency on its 50th anniversary. During those 50 years, the Agency has shown great leadership in working collaboratively with local jurisdictions to ensure that our existing water supplies are protected and used in the best possible way to benefit our communities.”

City of Arvin Mayor Tim Tarver

“Congratulations to the Kern County Water Agency for 50 years of leadership, innovation and commitment to the families, farms and businesses in California City.”

City of California City Mayor Pat Bohannon

“Water in Kern County has been and always will be a crucial aspect of our lives. It is vital for our economy, as well as important to the sustainability of our community. Water in Kern County is one of our most precious resources.”

City of Delano Mayor Ricardo Chavez

“As the Kern County Water Agency celebrates its 50th anniversary, the City of McFarland offers its sincere congratulations and looks forward to the Agency’s continued leadership on issues vital to our region.”

City of McFarland Mayor Manuel Cantu, Jr.

“Congratulations to the Kern County Water Agency from the City of Ridgecrest on this milestone achievement and 50 years of water stewardship. The Agency has shown great dedication to families and businesses by working to protect and maximize water supplies through efficiency and visionary leadership.”

City of Ridgecrest Mayor Ronald Carter

“It took great vision 50 years ago to ensure that Kern County could become the agricultural leader it is today. That same vision guides the Kern County Water Agency today and will for the next 50 years.”

City of Shafter Mayor Gary Nelson

“The Kern County Water Agency has been a great partner over the years with the West Kern Water District to bring supplies of fresh water to the residents and industry in Taft and the rest of the Westside. Cooperation is the cornerstone of these agencies working together to supply affordable and adequate supplies of water for the future of all Kern County. Although we may live in a region of a desert climate, we enjoy many years of available underground water supplies unlike many other regions of the State. Water is our future, and we congratulate the Agency for all the hard work they have done on behalf of all Kern County citizens.”

City of Taft Mayor Randy Miller

“Since 1961, the Kern County Water Agency has led by example, investing and building infrastructure to ensure that our communities can survive during the toughest times. The Agency has set the bar high for the next 50 years.”

City of Tehachapi Mayor Ed Grimes

“In its 50 years, the Kern County Water Agency has become a leading voice in California’s water policy, advocating for fairness and reliability in the state’s water delivery system. We look forward to the next 50 years of the Agency’s leadership.”

City of Wasco Mayor Carl Joe Hively

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The Kern County Water Agency wishes to thank elected representatives, municipal governments and strategic partners. Without these partners of the Agency, we could not achieve our goals of managing precious water resources and providing leadership on local and statewide issues.

Federal RepresentativesUnited States Senator Dianne FeinsteinUnited States Senator Barbara BoxerCongressman & House Majority Whip Kevin McCarthy (22nd District)Congressman Jim Costa (20th District)

State RepresentativesGovernor Edmund G. Brown, Jr.State Senator Jean Fuller (18th District)State Senator Michael Rubio (16th District)Assembly Republican Leader Connie Conway (34th District)Assemblywoman Shannon L. Grove (32nd District)Assemblyman David G. Valadao (30th District)

Kern County Board of SupervisorsMike Maggard, Chairman (District 3)Jon McQuiston (District 1)Zack Scrivner (District 2)Ray Watson (District 4)Karen Goh (District 5)

Kern County CitiesArvinBakersfieldCalifornia CityDelanoMcFarlandRidgecrest ShafterTaft TehachapiWasco

Kern County Water Agency Member UnitsBelridge Water Storage DistrictBerrenda Mesa Water DistrictBuena Vista Water Storage DistrictCawelo Water DistrictHenry Miller Water DistrictKern Delta Water DistrictLost Hills Water DistrictRosedale-Rio Bravo Water Storage DistrictSemitropic Water Storage DistrictTehachapi-Cummings County Water DistrictTejon-Castac Water DistrictWest Kern Water DistrictWheeler Ridge-Maricopa Water Storage District

Improvement District No. 4 PurveyorsCalifornia Water Service CompanyCity of BakersfieldEast Niles Community Services DistrictNorth of the River Municipal Water District (which wholesales to Oildale Mutual Water Company)

Cross Valley Canal ParticipantsArvin-Edison Water Storage DistrictCawelo Water DistrictFresno-Tulare Group, which consists of Lower Tule River Irrigation District and Pixley Irrigation DistrictKern County Water AgencyKern Delta Water DistrictKern-Tulare Water DistrictImprovement District No. 4Rosedale-Rio Bravo Water Storage District

Kern River InterestsBuena Vista Water Storage DistrictCity of Bakersfield Kern County Water AgencyKern Delta Water DistrictNorth Kern Water Storage DistrictTulare Lake Basin Water Storage District

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Working together to address California’s water challenges, now and in the future, the Kern County Water Agency thanks the following Vision 2061 Co-Sponsors for their support:

Association of California Water Agencies

California Farm Water Coalition

California Latino Water Coalition

California State University, Bakersfield’s Center for Research Excellence in Science and Technology

California Water Alliance

Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce

Kern Community College District

Kern County Farm Bureau

San Luis & Delta-Mendota Water Authority

Southern California Water Committee

State Water Contractors

The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California

Water Association of Kern County

Water Resources and Policy Initiatives at California State University

Westlands Water District

A special thank you to Bakersfield College for its support in facilitating Vision 2061.

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