Press release from the Kern County Water Agency:
The Kern County Water Agency (Agency) approved funding for the planning and design of the Delta Conveyance Project (DCP). This decision, made during the Board’s meeting on March 27, reflects a collective vote by the Agency’s Member Units. This investment supports efforts to modernize California’s water infrastructure and ensure a reliable water supply for Kern County and California.
The DCP is a critical initiative aimed at climate adaptation, reducing vulnerability to sea level rise and earthquakes and protecting water quality. By participating in the pre-construction planning, public water agencies like the Agency will continue to move the DCP closer to the construction phase into design and continued permitting.
“This decision reflects our commitment to securing long-term water reliability. As climate challenges intensify, investing in the DCP ensures we have the infrastructure needed to adapt and protect this critical resource. This is a difficult decision considering the long-term costs for the project are becoming increasingly more difficult to afford. We are looking to Agency staff, in consultation with local Member Units and in coordination with state and local government to reduce the cost burden of the DCP on Kern County water users.” – Eric Averett, President of the Kern County Water Agency Board of Directors.
“The Delta Conveyance Project is essential for delivering State Water Project water, safeguarding future supply and demonstrating a commitment to resilient, modern infrastructure.” – Martin Milobar, Director of the Kern County Water Agency Board of Directors and President of the Delta Conveyance Design and Construction Authority Board of Directors.
The Agency’s continued investment in the DCP underscores its support of statewide water management efforts while safeguarding the interests of Kern County. By advancing in this phase of planning and design, the Agency remains at the forefront of a sustainable water future.
The Kern County Water Agency (Agency) was created in 1961 by a special act of the State Legislature and serves as the local contracting entity for the State Water Project. The Agency, which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2011, participates in a wide scope of management activities, including water quality, flood control and groundwater operations to preserve and enhance Kern County’s water supply—the main ingredient for the well-being of an economy.
