If California was a nation it would be one of the tenth largest economies, but despite this wealth their basic needs are endangered. The 4th consecutive year of drought in the states creates tensions not only in the southern parts.
The New York Times is bringing attention to Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, an area in the northern part of the state where pumps and pipelines are providing 15 % of all water from above-ground sources in California. It is becoming clear that the delta is not providing an abundance of water – creating tensions among local business’, farmers and inhabitants.
The fishermen are devastated because the human engineering in the area disturbs local wildlife, especially fisheries. Environmental organizations are concerned for endangered species losing natural habitat and the farmers, on their hand, mean that too much water is provided for fisheries instead of crops that gives food to the population. It seems as if trying to fix one problem is creating another one and with ever increasing effects from climate change it is perhaps time to consider if: “not every farm will have water, not every shower will be long, not every species will thrive.”