Three months ago, a coalition of public interest organizations hosted the 2020 Napa Water Forum, with generous support from leading Napa wineries. The Forum introduced an innovative environmental management strategy. Recognizing the complexity of water allocation in our state, Active Management gives voice to all beneficial users while at the same time recognizing the existential urgency of coming into balance with nature. A panel of distinguished experts spoke on the history of Napa’s relationship with its watercourse, its unique opportunities in the future, the principles of environmental reconciliation, and the highly topical subject of groundwater management and its relationship to surface flows. Two experts on community engagement informed attendees how to arrive at consensus decisions in a Master Class that should perhaps be revisited by the newly formed Groundwater Sustainability Agency.
Water Audit California has now posted a complete record of the proceeding for those who were unable to attend, (or attendees who want a refresher course) including a HD video, a video linked transcript, portraits of attendees, and a downloadable library of supporting documents. https://waterauditca.org/napa-water-forum
Thanks to our speakers, co-sponsors, and wonderful audience, the water forum at Native Sons Hall was a great success. We appreciate the role you’re playing in changing how Napa approaches water issues.
The Napa Valley Register’s Barry Eberling wrote an article about the event which we feel captured the tone and content of the event. Give the piece a read here: Watershed forum looks to defuse Napa County water issues
