2008-06-04 23:41:26 -

- ACWA Director of Strategic Coordination and Public Affairs Jennifer Persike, 916-441-4545 or 916-296-3981 (cell) Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA) Executive Director Timothy Quinn issued the following statement regarding Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's announcement that California is in a drought.

"Today's announcement sounds the alarm that we are in a precarious situation this year. With court-ordered restrictions already squeezing

water supplies, it looks like a perfect storm of challenges for local water agencies.

"The governor is doing the right thing by declaring a statewide drought and sending a strong message that action is needed. This is not a case of crying wolf. While impacts of the drought vary by region, it is truly a statewide problem. Today's decree will go a long way toward galvanizing our efforts to respond as a state.

"We are stepping up to the plate to partner with the Department of Water Resources and the California Water Awareness Campaign in an aggressive public outreach effort on the need to conserve water this summer. We will be working with member agencies up and down the state to raise public awareness of the drought and urge consumers to reduce water use in the coming months.

"Longer term, there is no question that California needs a comprehensive solution to its water supply challenges. ACWA continues to press for such solutions that improve the sustainability of our water system, protect species and the environment and supply the water our economy needs."

ACWA is serving as an information clearinghouse for its members on the drought and other water supply challenges. A summary of water supply impacts and conservation measures around the state is available at www.acwa.com.

ACWA is a statewide association of public agencies whose 450 members are responsible for about 90% of the water delivered in California. For more information, visit www.acwa.com.

Water Agencies to Partner with the State to Press for Aggressive
Conservation