MWDOC Supports Governor Newsom’s Proposal to Streamline Delta Conveyance Project Approvals

The DCP aims to modernize the state’s primary water delivery system by constructing a single-tunnel conveyance through the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. This long-overdue modernization is crucial for safeguarding the State Water Project (SWP) against threats posed by climate change, seismic activity, and aging infrastructure. Given that Orange County relies on imported water from the SWP to meet approximately a third of its needs, the DCP’s advancement is vital for the region’s water security.

Governor Newsom’s proposal includes measures to simplify permitting processes, confirm funding authorities, and streamline judicial reviews, thereby reducing unnecessary delays and costs associated with the project. These reforms are expected to facilitate timely progress on the DCP while maintaining environmental protections and saving more than $365 million for every year of avoided delay.

“MWDOC supports initiatives that enhance the resilience and reliability of our water supply,” said Harvey De La Torre, MWDOC General Manager. “The Governor’s proposal to streamline the DCP’s approval process aligns with our commitment to securing a sustainable water future for Orange County residents.”

The DCP is currently in a critical phase of permitting and regulatory approvals. Although the project’s final Environmental Impact Report was certified in December of 2023, there remains further necessary environmental permits pending. Among them is the Department of Water Resources’ petition to change the points of water diversion in the northern Delta, which is a crucial step for the DCP’s implementation.

The Delta Conveyance Project has been modified and reduced in scope to address environmental concerns and community input. The current design is much smaller than the original and rerouted to avoid central Delta communities. We can no longer afford the distraction of endless lawsuits and complex bureaucratic processes that do nothing to protect our state’s primary source of affordable water.

MWDOC remains dedicated to collaborating with state and regional partners to advance projects like the DCP that are essential for the long-term reliability of Orange County’s water supply.

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The Municipal Water District of Orange County (MWDOC) is a wholesale water provider and resource planning agency whose efforts focus on sound planning and appropriate investments in water supply, water use efficiency and conservation, public information and outreach, legislative advocacy, water education for all ages, and emergency preparedness. MWDOC’s 27 water agencies, comprised of both city water departments and water districts, provide water service to the public.