Another Shot in California’s Water Wars

SACRAMENTO (CN) - In the latest chapter of California's perpetual water crisis, the Tehama-Colusa Canal Authority claims the federal government is diverting water to the San Joaquin Valley in violation of state protections. The Canal Authority says it is being unconstitutionally deprived its right to a sufficient water supply.

The Canal Authority claims in its federal complaint that to ensure that it has enough water to meet its needs, protections were established during the 1960s prohibiting the government from diverting water from the Tehama-Colusa Canal when it can be taken from somewhere else.

It says Uncle Sam is violating those protections, reducing water deliveries to the Tehama-Colusa Canal to alleviate shortages in the San Joaquin Valley.

The Tehama-Colusa Canal runs for about 66 miles in the northern part of the great San Joaquin Valley, the vegetable and fruit breadbasket of $37 billion agricultural industry.

The Canal Authority seeks an injunction. It is represented by Steven Saxton with Downey Brand.

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