Readers despair & hope in survey re: MAGA's effect on water management
Will President Trump make it better or worse? Forty-six readers give detailed answers to five questions. Free and paid subscribers can join the discussion.
Note: New survey results have been added since this story was first published.
What follows is not a scientifically conducted survey and is presented primarily for the purpose of stimulating discussion. However, I have spent a lot of time trying to get to know as much as possible about the origin of my 1400 subscribers by examining their email related information. For example, a simple google search reveals that name@uoh2o.ca.edu is a professor at University of Water in California.
If the subscribers were referred to SoCal Water Wars by another substack publication called “Up With Liberalism” or “Go MAGAS,” it’s probably safe to make some assumptions about those readers’ political views.
The percentages given below seem to reflect reasonably well what I have learned about subscribers to SoCal Water Wars, but that’s just my educated guess.
The percentage of water board directors, who are often reluctant to say anything in public even if it’s done anonymously, seems to be a little low based on survey answers—again, my educated guess.
Responders to questions 3-5 can be recognized and followed by their assigned number. So, #6 is the same person in each section if you want to follow their answers to each question.
The responses were not edited except for a few obvious spelling errors.
The survey is self-explanatory so I will spare you from any further introduction, other than to say I think you will find the responses on the whole to be thought provoking.
Question #1: In your opinion, will the policies of President Donald Trump help improve water management in California and the Colorado River Basin, make it worse, or make no difference?
Worse: 39/85%
Better: 6/13%
No difference: 1/2%
Question #2: Which choice best describes your relationship to water management?
Interested reader: 13/28%
Concerned water ratepayer: 14/30%
Non-profit advocate: 11/24%
Industry consultant: 5/11%
Private sector water industry: 2/4%
Journalist: 3/7%
Elected or appointed to a local water board: 4/9%
Other: state government (1); local government employee (1); tired of the bullshit ratepayer (1); environmentalist (1); researcher (1)
Question #3: What concerns you the most about the future of American politics?
Corruption and fraud legally stealing taxpayer dollars to fund their own interests over that of their constituents. Free money to those who do [not] like to work.
Lack of democracy with no rule of law.
Our loss of democracy.
Having liberal and conservative views is healthy for political discourse. Far left and far right not so much. As an example: The dysfunctional one party rule of California spreading and the far left take over. I am much more concerned with Democratic machine in Sacramento going to legal war with the Trump administration as a political statement rather than a reasoned response to policy. I don't want my tax money wasted.
Absence of logic and critical thinking combined with disregard of professional or scientific opinion.
Divisiveness.
Division in county is getting worse.
Slowly stripping our rights. Especially for women.
The solidification of authoritarianism.
Tyranny of a minority. Lawless MAGA.
What will the future of the US look like after this administration? What will be left with everything being dismantled? How long will the recession last?
To me, it boils down to this: everyone deserves a real voice in the decisions shaping their lives and future. Working together with the government while safeguarding the rights of generations to come is crucial. When people are genuinely involved, trust flourishes. This public engagement is the heart of a stronger democracy, ensuring everyone's voice matters, big or small. That trust and cooperation are what build a better society for all. Well-informed citizens who feel secure and protected – economically, in the workplace, and with the right to organize freely – are more empowered to take responsibility. Access to education and information is key. Strong worker protections and social security help level the playing field, so individuals don't fear losing everything when speaking out or facing disputes. In my opinion, that's how the inalienable rights to "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness" can truly mean something. Figuring out the exact path forward isn't easy alone, but when people come together to participate, contribute, and build, like a village on a larger scale, that's where the potential lies. This absolutely needs to include more accessible education and a "you help me, I help you, we all get helped" approach to working within our constitutional principles – the idea that all individuals are created equal and that governments derive their power from the consent of the governed to secure those fundamental rights. And when government fails in that duty, the people have the right to change it.
Decline in democratic norms over decades; slides towards authoritarian corporatocracy/oligarchy. Very scary.
tRump apocalypse of retro policies by republican morons wishing for the "good old days " (which weren't) Fascistic rules and policies.
That Democracy will face the most horrid death as the result of fascist billionaires.
Disintegration of rule of law, disdain for facts and constant lies by President and his cabinet/supporters, worship of money/power by oligarchy and non-existent or feeble opposition.
Two party system comprised of two private clubs.
No concerns for people or the natural environment.
At the current administration is not following our constitution. I am very worried. Congress and Senate needs to stand up to the president and say no when he does these ridiculous things.
Escalating instability and hostility.
Threats to democracy, free elections and rule of law.
Incompetence on top of Neo Feudalism.
Divisiveness. Too little attention to climate change.
Overuse of water resources due to ideological beliefs that deny climate change facts, high costs of "monster projects", and lack of a strong conservation ethic--develop baby develop no matter how, where, or when. In general, the developing fascist oligarchy that will potentially affect (and already is starting to) the entire world catastrophically in all categories. MAGA's complete and suicidal power-driven disregard for the environment.
Lack of investment in climate action and resiliency. Lack of support to water conservation, reuse and storage.
That our civic institutions are failing. At the neighborhood level. At the regional level. At the federal level.
Over reaction to climate change resulting in water shortages.
We seem to have stopped listening to each other...
Lack of science-based policy. Irrationality. Authoritarianism.
That the leftists will return to power nationally AND that the electorate of California will continue to elect 'leaders' such as Gavin Newsom.
The hateful rhetoric, lack of due process, dismantling of environment laws.
The greed and corruption and not working to solve the real problems that face our planet/country.
The greed and corruption and not working to solve the real problems that face our planet/country.
Egregious dumb fuckery.
Corruption.
Elected officials beholden to campaign donors and threats of attack ad money also swaying elected decision makers.
Destruction of the rule of law and rise of dictatorship.
Our division driven by politicians trying to keep us fighting each other instead of working together to solve our common problems.
The revenge of the left when they get back in power.
Trump/Republican party.
Idiocracy, fascism, influence of money.
Dictatorship under Trump.
Our place in the world- aligned with the bad guys instead of the good guys. The damage of the culture wars- anti LGBTQ. The cruelty of the depopulation and it’s leading to just jail anyone who speaks out against the administration. The impact on the Earth. Not saving the parks and forests.
Too many roadblocks to accomplish goals.
The chaos caused by this current administration as it works to destroy our democracy and put its Project 2025 in place.
The corruption of all parties by money.
To me, it boils down to this: everyone deserves a real voice in the decisions shaping their lives and future. Working together with the government while safeguarding the rights of generations to come is crucial. When people are genuinely involved, trust flourishes. This public engagement is the heart of a stronger democracy, ensuring everyone's voice matters, big or small. That trust and cooperation are what build a better society for all. Well-informed citizens who feel secure and protected – economically, in the workplace, and with the right to organize freely – are more empowered to take responsibility. Access to education and information is key. Strong worker protections and social security help level the playing field, so individuals don't fear losing everything when speaking out or facing disputes. In my opinion, that's how the inalienable rights to "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness" can truly mean something. Figuring out the exact path forward isn't easy alone, but when people come together to participate, contribute, and build, like a village on a larger scale, that's where the potential lies. This absolutely needs to include more accessible education and a ""you help me, I help you, we all get helped"" approach to working within our constitutional principles – the idea that all individuals are created equal and that governments derive their power from the consent of the governed to secure those fundamental rights. And when government fails in that duty, the people have the right to change it.
Question #4: What concerns you the most about the future of water resources management in California and/or the Colorado River Basin?
Too much pride or history to realize that SoCal water management should merge and become a stronger, less expensive voice.
realization of impacts of climate change on the water supply with the extremes emailing what was considered a baseline. End of negotiations on the Colorado River and interaction with Mexico. Pushing forward in supply side, like sites reservoir and conveyance while not focusing on local water that has reduced demand and the human right to water with affordability.
I’m concerned whether we will have enough for our needs.
The idea that California is running out of water is the first of many concerns. We're not running out of water. despite the claims of climate change advocates. There is just as much water on earth as there ever has been until we start shooting it out into space - not a likely action. We have the engineering and technology to provide abundant water for all Californians if the government, regulators and perhaps more importantly the NGOs work towards that end.
Potential loss of natural springs and groundwater levels.
The power of extreme conservation views that limit prosperity.
Lack of acceptance of a variety of approaches.
Dwindling supply. Continued politicalization of water rather than managing as a basic need.
There needs to be greater for conservation and water recycling.
Distribution skewness from historical claims that favor agriculture. Loss of aquifer from seawater intrusion caused by climate crisis raising sea level.
The governor's bromance with Drumpf to fast forward reservoirs, the Delta tunnel and the loss of habitat.
Clean water is just absolutely essential for everything alive, isn't it? And honestly, I think if you've got a company that's just all about making cash – like, totally money-hungry – and they don't have enough rules or anyone properly keeping an eye on them when it comes to what happens to people and society down the line, and also how our kids and grandkids will get and use water, then risk for pollution isn't just a small issue, it becomes this massive problem, and the environment and all the natural systems get way too messed up to support life.
Newsom. Really, the belief from our recent (and maybe future) Governors (and obviously current president) that we can rebuild our system the way it has operated the past century (dams & diversions) despite the massive costs, impacts and climate change making that 'reality' a fantasy. Lack of funding commitments to shift to a resilient, multi-benefit local water focus.
Similar to above.
My Daughters and Grandchildren live in Denver. They continue to build without adequate water sources to access.
Disregard for a finite and diminishing water source. Along with ignoring obvious environmental decline along all parts of the Colorado River system.
The management is the problem. Allow water to run at the surface as it has mainly done historically. Stop forcing it through pipes.
Few concerns for people or the natural environment.
The management of this resource should be managed by the states that are using the water along with Mexico. They’ve had a plan with stick to the plan and not change everything without good reason.
Inability and unwillingness of jurisdictions and industries to work toward a shared vision for the future.
Environmental destruction.
There’s never been an allocation reckoning.
Heating and drought.
Lack of a strong and realistic conservation ethic, wasting water on junk crops, too much control by greedy special interests e.g. big ag, real estate.
Need more collaboration, mutual support and shared investments in water resiliency.
I lived in Altadena until Jan 7. Our local water mutuals failed.
Excess protection of fish and environment at the expense of a balanced approach where all sides do well. Excess regulation resulting in water deprivation rather than surplus.
That plans will not be based on science.
Waste.
State governance and leadership is lacking. As long as there are multiple Kingdom Silos managing water and related issues in California government, we will never see well-thought-out solutions to water supply, water demand management, and environmental protection. Too many appointed leaders (who manage excessively bloated bureaucracies) whose main purpose is to pad their resume and retire with exceedingly large pensions.
Lack of water.
That we will squander our resources and run out or have to pay astronomical rates in the future.
Climate change and drought.
Public is clueless.
Continuation of old water rights agreements that facilitate growing water intensive crops.
It is FUBAR There are far too many water agencies and none of them are accountable. A history of greed, social injustice, and a completely screwed up approach to the whole concept of water management doom California's natural environment - what’s left of it.
Our apparent inability to work with all stakeholders to reach mutually beneficial solutions. We need the best possible data and climate projections and the will (and financing) to develop and implement an equitable plan.
That we continue to pursue regulatory strategies that reduce the water available for human needs and flourishing.
Privatization, turning something that should be a utility into a private enterprise.
Inequity and inequality. Unchecked development. Not understanding hydrologic cycle.
Over allocation of water and paper water.
I got interested due to the extended droughts. I’m still interested for that, but other things we can do- conservation, change our gardens. Grow our own food-maybe leading to local crop swaps being mostly how we eat. Even innovation in utilizing our front yards for home grown food.
Not enough water retained from the rains, more basins/lakes/dams needed.
See what I said above.
The human race's inability to deal with risk beyond the next 10 minutes.
Rain in the southern part of California/nevada/arizona.
Clean water is just absolutely essential for everything alive, isn't it? And honestly, I think if you've got a company that's just all about making cash and totally money-hungry and they don't have enough rules or anyone properly keeping an eye on them when it comes to what happens to people and society down the line, and also how our kids and grandkids will get and use water, then risk for pollution isn't just a small issue, it becomes this massive problem, and the environment and all the natural systems get way too messed up to support life.
Question #5: Do you have confidence that your local and regional water agencies are prepared to adequately face the future challenges to maintaining sustainable water supplies in the future? Please explain your answer.
Wholesalers, no. Retailers, yes, many are driveling to find cheaper water by their own effort.
It happens with higher rates and greater awareness of water as a finite supply regardless of water agencies investment. Demand drops and people and businesses decide not water agencies. Losing good GM at MWD focused on local water and reform is example of wholesale water agencies not being responsive.
I hope so.
Yes, if (see above) the state and feds act responsibly. Consider moving the High Speed Rail station in Merced two miles south and the station in Wasco two miles north would save enough money to completely refurbish and repair all three of California's major water conveyance systems. Water managers are amongst the most creative people anywhere, including Hollywood. Only they have to work within the boundaries of science and not the science fiction of CF&W such as believing depriving ranchers north of Shasta water will save the salmon while allowing non-native striped bass' predation to annually consume 90 percent or more of out migrating juvenile salmon.
Local board activities seem to support political positions instead of scientific opinion.
Yes.
No.
Somewhat. They are investing in recycled water to move away from expensive desalination and Colorado water.
While there are some hopeful signs, water agencies still tend to be passive and lacking a sufficient urgency to deal with the challenges of climate change.
No, our aquifer is at risk.
I do think they can make good decisions if there is oversight. With no oversight fraud reigns and bad habits persist in looking only at water gains in the short term. There needs to be planning like is done with the Native Americans - 7 generations....this actually causes us to take slow deliberate actions.
While the challenges facing California and the Colorado River Basin are significant, I have a fundamental hope and trust in the ingenuity and dedication of the people working within our local and regional water agencies. These are professionals who understand the gravity of the situation and are deeply committed to finding solutions. They are the ones on the ground, analyzing the data, collaborating with different stakeholders, and developing the strategies to navigate these complex water issues. I believe in their ability to learn, adapt, and innovate as new challenges emerge. There's a growing awareness and a strong drive within these agencies to proactively address the uncertainties of the future, whether it's through negotiating new agreements for the Colorado River, investing in water-saving technologies, or developing more resilient local water supplies within California. Ultimately, maintaining sustainable water supplies requires a collective effort, but I have confidence that the expertise and commitment within our water agencies form a crucial foundation for a more secure water future for the region.
Open question. A lot of folks trying to move us in the right direction, but still not unanimous; some agencies lack the leadership needed, especially when the shift will take massive resources. Also need consolidation to make coordination and integration easier.
Not sure -- are the locals strong enough to stand up to federal stupid policies?
For the most part. Living on an islands we depend on rain to fill our Aquifers. We have had drought for years. This year is drier than any other year. If we are to have a wildfire I worry that they will run out of water to stop a fire.
There are some encouraging signs but still too much business as usual.
No. These agencies are subject to regulatory capture, with the best interests of only private industry rather than the well being of people and nature.
No confidence. The Colorado River and the federally managed systems that are in CA are over-burdened and now being flushed for political short-term ploys. The State Water Project is also over-burdened and pressured by Big AG to the detriment of fisheries and natural resources. Over the past decade, thousands of acres in the Central Valley and the Salinas Valley have seen dry land ranches converted to irrigated tree crops (mostly nuts in the Central Valley) and grapes in the Salinas Valley. The has created a "hardened" water demand that was not there 30 years ago resulting in increased demands for surface water supplies while also further depleting ground water supplies and the resulting land subsidence. It is entirely unsustainable.
I really don’t know. I am somewhat doubtful.
No. In many areas agencies are understaffed and lack expertise and strategy.
Sort of.
NO
No. We have an urgent need to add desal and fix both the Salton Sea and Tijuana River problems.
On balance, not much. We don't react except to crisis and that's insane.
No. They are more siloed and have blinders on and don’t see the value of collaboration and shared investments.
Yes. Urban has enough money to pull water in. Also vast ability to reduce use.
Orange County has created the premier water system in the world with an effective balance of imported water, ground water, recycled water and within a few years desal from Doheny.
In some cases, there are reasons for hope, and in others hope is doubtful. The recent agreement on rationing the Colorado reached by California, Nevada, and Arizona is a good first step. The Imperial Water District has shown flexibility. The Upper Basin states have a long, long way to go to catch up. And I doubt whether the new administration will play fair, or base it’s decisions on the best available science.
No. Too much local politics and no overarching regional plan.
The key words here are "local" and "regional". The answer to the question is definitely "yes". It is the STATE, however, that inhibits innovation, prescribes too much unwarranted regulation, and is unable to complete important reservoir projects. Incompetence and self-interests seem to prevail at the STATE level.
No. They are rubes.
I like that we are purifying and recycling some of our waste but the runoff that occurs when it rains and washes into the ocean is a wasted opportunity. There are so many things we could be doing such as more incentives to use less water as consumers and educating people about water issues. Removing the political component from water boards would be helpful but there isn't an easy fix for that.
Not really.
They may maintain a supply but they don't care about the cost nor do they care about conservation.
Yes, as long as there is enough recyclable water to sustain OC’s GWRS.
You're kidding, right? No, I have no confidence in local water agencies because they are too involved in their individual fiefdoms to face the future courageously and start to demand changes to the statewide management of water resources. The water in California is controlled by special interests and wealthy elites with far too much political power and influence.
Not sure. I hope there is no “magical thinking” involved. I trust them to act with integrity and for the common good.
Our local agencies do the best they can under the circumstances. Regulations put in place to help fish have diverted millions of acre feet of fresh water to the ocean for little benefit to the fish. Environmental agencies that have enforced these regulations have no accountability for this failure and continue to double down on their demands. The water quality regulations continue to get more and more restrictive leading to higher and higher water and utility costs severely impacting the huge part of our population that is not wealthy. Almost all of the regulatory cost burden is mandated by state and federal regulations which the local districts have no control over but are required to pay for. This is not leading to the flourishing of our state’s population.
Don't know, probably.
Depends upon the agency and the basin. Those that are inclusive, deliberate, and thoughtful have my confidence.
Some are some aren’t. MWD isn’t.
Well, I have attended the big water management zooms, but I don’t know enough to know whether I’m seeing competent management or not.
No. They are too political.
Considering mining that this current administration is attempting to expand, I don't. one particular instance is giving Resolution Copper the go ahead to mine copper ore at the expense of wasting water to do so.
No.
A little, but I worry about commercial interference.
While the challenges facing California and the Colorado River Basin are significant, I have a fundamental hope and trust in the ingenuity and dedication of the people working within our local and regional water agencies. These are professionals who understand the gravity of the situation and are deeply committed to finding solutions. They are the ones on the ground, analyzing the data, collaborating with different stakeholders, and developing the strategies to navigate these complex water issues. I believe in their ability to learn, adapt, and innovate as new challenges emerge. There's a growing awareness and a strong drive within these agencies to proactively address the uncertainties of the future, whether it's through negotiating new agreements for the Colorado River, investing in water-saving technologies, or developing more resilient local water supplies within California. Ultimately, maintaining sustainable water supplies requires a collective effort, but I have confidence that the expertise and commitment within our water agencies form a crucial foundation for a more secure water future for the region.
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