Congressman Valadao Statement on Bureau of Reclamation’s Central Valley Project Initial 2021 Water Allocation

WASHINGTON - Today, Congressman David G. Valadao released the following statement in response to the Bureau of Reclamation’s (Reclamation) initial 2021 water supply allocation for Central Valley Project contractors. Unfortunately, Reclamation announced an initial allocation of only 5% for South-of-Delta agricultural repayment and water service contractors, a devastating blow to Central Valley users who are already struggling.

“Agriculture in the Central Valley drives our local economy, provides tens of thousands of jobs, and produces food for the entire world. During the COVID-19 pandemic, farm workers have sacrificed their health and safety to keep our families fed," said Congressman Valadao. "Now, the Bureau of Reclamation threatens this supply of food and countless livelihoods. The Central Valley farming community has survived devastating drought conditions and burdensome regulations for decades; however, our farms cannot survive without greater water allocations for South-of-Delta agriculture. It is critical allocations of California’s water supply reflect the needs of these farms so they many continue to produce the food our nation relies on.”

Central Valley farmers and communities have endured disproportionately low water allocations for many years, contractors receiving well below their contracted supply even during wet years. In the past decade alone, South-of-Delta contractors have received a 0% allocation twice. As a lifelong dairy farmer, Congressman Valadao has experienced firsthand the challenges and frustrations surrounding this issue. He is committed to finding balanced solutions to California’s drought that ensure Central Valley farmers receive the supply of water they have been promised.  

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