Manny Bahia urges accurate water diversion measurements for California's water management

In a pivotal discussion during the State Water Resources Control Board meeting on April 16, 2025, water measurement and reporting revisions took center stage, highlighting the urgent need for accurate water diversion data in California. Manny Bahia, representing the State Water Contractors, emphasized that precise measurement is crucial for enforcing water rights, especially amid increasing drought conditions.

Bahia pointed out that recent stream depletions in the Delta have surged to alarming levels, estimated between 1.5 to 2 million acre-feet. He stressed that without reliable data on water diversions, it becomes impossible to distinguish between natural depletion and illegal diversions. The introduction of Open ET technology was noted as a potential tool for understanding water consumption, but Bahia cautioned that it should not replace the need for rigorous reporting requirements essential for enforcing water rights.

As the board considers updates to the Bay Delta Water Quality Control Plan, Bahia urged for consistent and high-quality diversion information across all water users, not just those involved with the state water project. He called for the board to align its proposed modifications with existing regulations to ensure they support the intent of Senate Bill 88, which aims to enhance water management and environmental protection.

The meeting underscored the complexities of water management in California, with Bahia's comments reflecting broader concerns about the sustainability of water resources in the face of climate challenges. The board's next steps will be critical in determining how effectively California can manage its water rights and environmental commitments moving forward.