The California Drought: Lessons for the Future
International Discussion on Natural Infrastructure
Brian StrankoCalifornia Water Program DirectorThe Nature Conservancy
16 September, 2015
About California
Sacramento
About California Water
Source: PPIC. 2011. Photo: Sacramento Convention and Visitors Bureau
Source: Union of Concerned Scientists
Source: lao.ca.gov
Groundwater Basins
Variation in Precipitation
Reservoir Capacity
Folsom Lake March 2011 Folsom Lake January 2014 (courtesy State of CA)
Photo: Jim Crenshaw, San Jose Mercury News
Emergency Drought Response
• $1b in Funding
• Executive Order
• Cutback Water Rights
• Fish and Wildlife Rescues
Our Role
Deep Risk: Massive Overpumping
Reasons for Hope
• California Water Action Plan
• Groundwater Legislation
• $7.5 Billion Water Bond
Challenges Ahead
Lessons
• Plan for Variation (not Average)
• There is No Silver Bullet
• Integrated Natural and Grey Infrastructure Management Necessary
Thank you!