We Grow California

Darcy and Darcy are back from the Association of California Water Agencies' (ACWA) Spring Conference! They had the pleasure of meeting Dan Keppen, the Executive Director at the Family Farm Alliance (Alliance). This week Dan joins them and discusses his upcoming retirement, his successes, challenges, and accomplishments. After twenty years with the Alliance, and over thirty years in agriculture and water, Dan shares some advice and insights for our next generation leaders, as well as those that are leading now. The Alliance has members from all 16 western states and actively represents their ag water interests at the federal level. Dan's been able to do this successfully by building coalitions and focusing on what can be agreed upon – which as we all know, is easier said than done.  Listen in, learn how Dan has made it work on a very tight budget, and how the Family Farm Alliance earned their seat at the table.  Check them out at www.familyfarmalliance.org/Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

Did you miss them? Darcy B. has literally been traveling the world, and Darcy V. has been planting acres and acres of tomatoes. They are finally back in the studio and are catching up on everything that happened while Darcy B. was globe-trotting including the Central Valley Project (Federal) and the State Water Project allocations, Metropolitan's new General Manager (Deven Upadhayay), Metropolitans Climate Adaptation Master Plan and Business Model, another Canyon Lake Fish Kill, future guests, and more.  Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

It's March and newly elected officials have settled into their seats. At the state level, one third of all legislators are new. Locally, that percentage could be higher or lower. Regardless, newly elected officials rarely have an understanding about California's water complexities nor the importance of Agriculture and its unique challenges. To get a newly elected perspective, Darcy and Darcy welcome Canyon Lake Mayor, Mark Terry.  Mayor Terry was appointed to City Council two years ago and then was elected to his first four-year term in November. The Mayor shares his perspective on the importance of water, having a city that has two water providers, how is navigates the challenges, and what he recommends. Join the conversation and find some take-aways that might work for you in your community. For more information about Mayor Mark Terry and the City of Canyon Lake, visit https://www.canyonlakeca.gov/ .Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

Sarah Woolf, a California Ag and Water icon, joins Darcy and Darcy and discusses Water Wise - a water management company for farmers in the central San Joaquin Valley, the Change Coalition, the San Joaquin Blueprint, the San Joaquin Valley Water Collaborative Action Program, and family farming – just to name a few!Sarah shares her perspective on California water and agriculture, how it has changed, and where it may be going over the next decade or two.  What was clear, was there is so much more to talk about!  Darcy & Darcy can't wait to have her back! Sarah is truly a W.O.W. – a Woman of WATER! This is a conversation you can't miss! To learn more about Sarah's consulting firm, Water Wise, visit, www.WaterWise.AgSend us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

Darcy and Darcy welcome back Westlands Water District's Assistant General Manager, Jose Gutierrez and for the first time, welcome Kitty Campbell, Supervisor of Resources. Westlands has been doing some innovative groundwater sustainability efforts and in this episode, Jose and Kitty talk about their Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) Program. This program works with Westlands growers to use their existing wells and convert them to dual purpose, meaning they recharge the deep aquifer beneath Corcoran clay layer when surface water is available as well as pump when groundwater extraction is permitted.  Growers receive groundwater credits for each acre foot of water they store. Westlands has nine of these wells located throughout the District and over 70 have been installed by growers. Darcy and Darcy discuss the benefits for Westlands, the growers, and possibly for Southern California agencies looking for places to park water.  Join the conversation! To learn more about Westland's ASR program, visit https://wwd.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/asr-information.pdf. Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

Vivian Welsh, Founder and CEO of Vivians.io, a firm that develops Artificial Intelligence (AI) solutions, joins Darcy and Darcy and discusses what AI is, how utilities or farmers use this technology, what guardrails (If any) are in place, and what's been the biggest barrier to AI implementation.  Vivian shares great success stories, answers tough questions, and provides wonderful tips for getting started. Young, old, or in-between, this is an episode you can't miss. Join the conversation! To reach Vivian directly, visit her website www.vivians.io/ or email her at Vivian@vivians.ioSend us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

It's finally February, and true-to-form, January has been the longest year! Los Angeles fires were and still are devastating. On the bright side, water, particularly, California Water, has been front and center.  Darcy V. and Darcy B. discuss how the information is evolving, and in some cases, literally changing by the second!  They also emphasize the importance of educating electeds at all levels on how California's state, federal, and local water systems work, what they are actually capable of, (Please note that putting out a wildfire is not one of them), and what we need. (Spoiler alert – Storage, expanded system capacity, less regulations, cooperation, and improved system flexibility are all discussed!) The Darcys also mention that if you live in the Exchange Contractor area, the Annual ECPAC Member meeting will be Wednesday, March 5th, at 6:00pm.  Chris White, Executive Director of the San Joaquin River Water Exchange Contractors will provide a water and operations update – including how President Trump's recent Executive Orders impact the Central Valley Project.  Registration is required. The event is free to attend, however ECPAC contributions are strongly encouraged.Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

With Los Angeles and the surrounding areas still ablaze, the media is capitalizing with headlines like Washington Post's recent article, “L.A. fires may have brought cancer-causing chemicals into drinking water.” Causing further concern are the various public health water notices including Do Not Drink and Do Not Boil.  Ultimately, people want to know, is their water safe to drink after a wildfire? What are local water systems doing to ensure the water is safe, and how are these efforts protecting public health? Darcy B. is solo this week and was extremely grateful to welcome Dr. Andrew Whelton Professor of Civil Engineering and Environmental and Ecological Engineering at Purdue University.  Dr. Whelton and his team investigate and solve problems that affect our natural and built environments. His expertise focuses on environmental chemistry and engineering, disasters, polymer science and engineering, water quality, infrastructure, and public health. His expertise has been called in on the Paradise Fire, Tubbs, Camps, and others. Darcy B. and Dr. Whelton discuss potential contaminants, recommended sampling, response protocols, recovery, and provides free resources for both the public and for water systems, on his website, Center for Plumbing Safety.In addition, Dr. Whelton and other experts recently completed a Water Research Foundation project, Concepts of Operations (CONOPS) Plan for Public works and Water Utilities which is available for free on his website.  Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

First, Darcy and Darcy send their concern and sympathy for those impacted by the horrific southern California fires. We hope you're safe, and the fires are extinguished soon. To start 2025 off, Mitch Partovi, a water broker from The Water Agency, is back!  Mitch joins Darcy and Darcy and discusses California's current water supply, what activities are going on in California's water market, and what might be expected. As our listeners have learned, the federal, or Central Valley Project, operates differently than the State Water Project.  Farmers are deciding now whether to carry over their water or not.  As Darcy V put it, “It's a roll of the dice.” Darcy B took that to mean use or lose it, but nothing is quite that simple. Get the details by joining the conversation!Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

Darcy B. and Darcy V. thought you could use a little refresh from all the election advertising, conversation, and in some instances, drama.  Just in time for the biggest food holiday of the year, Darcy V. and Darcy B. go over some fun Thanksgiving Dinner food facts.  Darcy V.  has been waiting to do this episode for over a year!  The Darcys share where the most popular holiday food comes from, how much in total receipts each item generates, and a multitude of other fun foodie facts! You'll be the hit of the party with this information! Spoiler alert – California Farmers are a big reason you enjoy those Thanksgiving family favorites.  So, while we all count our blessings this holiday, please take a moment and offer thanks for our California Farmers. Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

The November 2024 elections are over and a whole new class of elected water board directors are about to take their seats. Many of these individuals ran on the promise of lower water rates, improved water reliability, more transparency, etc. But what can they really deliver?  Darcy and Darcy welcomed Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District's (EVMWD) Board President Chance Edmonson into the studio to share his perspective of what it was like when he became a board member.  Chance was appointed to the EVMWD Board in 2021 to fill a vacancy and then in 2022 ran for the seat and won. Chance shares what he thought being a board member was going to be like, what it really is, what he has learned, what has been the most difficult part of the job, and offers some advice for those that are about to take their oath.  Listen in and hear what he has to say and then share it with someone you know that's about to take office.Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

Johnny Amaral, Chief External Affairs Officer at Friant Water Authority, joins Darcy and Darcy in the studio this week for an enlightening conversation. Recently, Johnny moderated a panel that Darcy B. participated in and Darcy V. attended. This annual event was hosted by the Association of California Water Agencies, Regions 6 & 7. The panel focused on “successful” regulatory management strategies.  As part of that panel discussion, Johnny shared that water agencies, irrigation districts, and water purveyors from all over the state have been negotiating themselves out of reliable water supply for over thirty years. This graph, known as the Golden Trophy chart, demonstrates the reduction in water supply. Each milestone was intended to be the trophy, or the finish line, ensuring a reliable supply from that point on.  However, guess what happened? Let's just say, the last thing Californians need is another “Golden Trophy.” Listen in as Johnny shares the details!   Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

It's October 2024 and the new water year has begun! Chris White, Executive Director of the San Joaquin River Water Authority Exchange Contractors joins Darcy and Darcy in the studio and lets us know how the California 2023-2024 water year ended, what water storage levels are, and what the next water year may hold.  The age old question is before us once again, “Will it be wet or dry?”  Tune-in and see what Chris has to say!Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

In the early 1900's California water projects were Big and Bold. Today's guest, Mehul Patel, Orange County Water District's Executive Director of Operations, oversees a project that can be classified in that same category – the Groundwater Replenishment System or GWRS.  The only reason urban water agencies are even talking about, let alone planning for, direct potable reuse is because of this project. Mehul joins Darcy and Darcy in the studio and shares the history of the project back to Water Factory 21, the courageous decisions two agencies had to make to move forward and make significant investments, and of course, one-of-the-most-important-things-of all, how they overcome the “Yuck factor” when so many others could not. Mehul also shares how anyone, yes anyone, can get a tour of this world-class facility. Listen in!Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

Will Pruitt, CEO of Water Right, LLC, and Exchange Contractor PAC Board Member, joins Darcy and Darcy this week. Will shares the Why, Where, and When certain irrigation strategies are employed.  Irrigation has come a long way in the last few decades and now, with the help of better technology, innovation, and grower expertise, not only are these systems more efficient, but they are lasting longer. There's more to it than just turning on your “sprinklers!” That means a better Return on Investment which is an efficiency incentive. For our Urban listeners, you are about to learn how complex “watering” really is. And for our growers, Will has some great suggestions at the end that will position you well for the future. Listen in!Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

Imagine this: you shut off 31% of your customers for non-payment and the United Nations shows up at your door.  This is a true story and Darcy and Darcy were very curious to see how this played out. Join them as they welcome Matt Phillips, who leads the City of Detroit Water and Sewerage Department's Customer Service Division as well as serves as the Department's Chief of Staff.  Matt shares how he was tasked with finding a way to collect the over $200 million (you read the right!) in outstanding receivables, making water and waste-water services affordable to Detroit's residents, with more than 50% living below the national poverty level, and all while NOT turning off services.  Curious how he is doing it?  Darcy and Darcy were! Tune in to learn what Detroit is doing and what we can all learn.Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

This week Dan Nelson retired Executive Director of the San Luis-Delta Mendota Water Authority (Authority) joins Darcy and Darcy. Dan shares the history of the Authority's predecessor organization, the events that led to the Authority's creation, key operation and water management milestones, and the best lesson he learned. The coolest part of the interview from Darcy B's perspective was that Dan worked with Darcy V.'s grandfather, the water legend himself, C.W. “Bill” Jones Sr. who is known for bringing water deliveries to agriculture and for whom the Jones Pumping Plant is named.  Dan shares what Bill Sr. was like, what type of leader he was, and key insights that Darcy V. surely will take to heart.  Curious as to what the key takeaway from today's episode might be? Dan Nelson is a leader whose experience and lessons are just as applicable today, as they were when the Authority started.  And that leadership transcends water and agriculture. Take a moment and listen inSend us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

Darcy V is harvesting tomatoes so that means, Darcy B. is leading this discussion, and what a discussion it is!   Darcy welcomes Geoffrey Vanden Heuvel, the Director of Regulatory and Economic Affairs for the Milk Producers Council, a California dairy farmer trade association. Geoff is currently the Vice-Chairman of the Water Blueprint for the San Joaquin Valley Board.   Geoff joins Darcy B in the studio where they discuss the urgent Fall X 2 Action. The Fall X2 Action (Technically it addresses salinity intrusion in the Bay Delta), as currently mandated, results in significant water supply reductions that provide water for the San Joaquin Valley's agricultural industry, rural communities, including disadvantaged communities, Southern California cities, families, industry, and economies, as well as critical habitat in both federal and private wildlife refuges. This regulation has flexibility, if the APPOINTED decision-makers agree, the 350,000 AF of stored water (enough for 1,050,000 Southern California Families) we can keep this water in storage. We can save for the next dry period.  Saving for Sunny Days! Recent scientific studies done by the National Fish and Wildlife Agency and others indicate this effort will not, and does not, help the Delta Smelt, as originally intended.  In other words, sound science is NOT driving this decision.  You can help.  Click on the links below and email these appointed decision-makers.  Let them know, that saving California water for our communities, our food supply, and all of California is our top priority: ·      California Natural Resources Agency Secretary, Wade Crowfoot, Wade.Crowfoot@resources.ca.gov·      California Department of Fish and Wildlife Director, Charlton (Chuck) Bonham, chuck.bonham@wildlife.ca.gov·      California Department of Water Resources Director, Karla Nemeth, Karla.Nemeth@water.ca.gov·      US Bureau of Reclamation Director, Karl Stock, KStock@usbr.gov·      Governor Gavin Newsom, (have to use contact form) https://www.gov.ca.gov/contact/ Listen in!Send us a Text Message.We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

This week Ryan Jacobson, Chief Executive Officer of Fresno Farm Bureau joins Darcy and Darcy for an interesting conversation on what a Farm Bureau is, what it does, and how they work.  Ryan discusses that over the last ten years, a lot of what he does can be summed up in these words, “There's water ... and then there's everything else.” Ryan shares how he serves a wide range of interests, needs, and communities.  Water-speak, as we all know, is a challenge.  Ryan also serves as President of Fresno Irrigation District, which gives him a definite advantage. Farm Bureau provides immense value and service to its members and communities. Darcy B learned a lot. You just might too! Listen in!Send us a Text Message.We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

This week, Darcy B. is flying solo while Darcy V. is out of town.  Left to her own devices, Darcy welcomed into the studio Dusty Ference, the Executive Director of the King's County Farm Bureau.  Recently, Dusty and the King's County Farm Bureau made headlines when they successfully were issued a temporary restraining order against the State Water Resources Control Board.  This order prevents the State Board from putting the Tulare Lake Groundwater Subbasin on SGMA Probation. The restraining order remains in effect until Tuesday, August 20, 2024, when the judge will consider issuing a temporary injunction.  To put it in baseball terms, Kings County Farm Bureau hit a homerun the first time at bat, and the State Water Resources Control Board has yet to get to first base. Darcy pitched some difficult questions like how this action is sitting with their neighboring agencies, why they should have more time to comply than anyone else – including her own water agency, how the state determined the proposed fees, what's the potential impact to Tulare communities, and what are they hoping for when all the dust settles.  To find out the answers to these questions and more, listen in! Send us a Text Message.We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

It's Darcy and Darcy this week and they have plenty to talk about.  First, they share information about a Central Valley event hosted by The California Water Alliance (4th Annual Water Forum) that is being held on August 7th.  This event was encouraging to both Darcys as it appears to be a non-partisan, forward thinking, solution focused event.  Check it out for yourself here. What really got the conversation going was Darcy B's sentiments on the current proposed “Water Bond.”  Listed on this fall's ballot as Proposition 4, it is entitled, “The Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire Prevention, Drought Preparedness, and Clean Air Bond Act of 2024.” In Darcy's B opinion, there is very little funding, if any, for safe drinking water. Darcy V weighs in on propositions in general, but you'll have to listen in to find out his thoughts on this one. Is this a Darcy versus Darcy or is it a Darcy and Darcy?  Ultimately, the question goes to you, our listeners, is this a water bond or a water bust? Join the conversation!Send us a Text Message.We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

For over a decade now, Direct Potable ReUse (DPR) has been referred to as “Showers to Flowers.” Darcy and Darcy welcome back Las Virgenes General Manager and President of Water ReUse California, Dave Pedersen to talk about DPR's next level – Pizza & Beer!  If you recall from our December 29th episode, Darcy V wanted to try the DPR Pale Ale Beer that a local microbrewery Lady Face Mountain crafted exclusively for Dave's project.  Dave got it to Darcy B., and she got it to the great Central Valley for Darcy's enjoyment.  Listen in to hear Darcy V.'s candid review and then learn about Dave's unique community engagement efforts that involve pizza, beer, gelato, and shaved ice – all made with DPR water! We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

Paul Minasian, long-practicing California water rights attorney, is back! Paul joins Darcy and Darcy in the studio to explain the Supreme Court of the United States' (SCOTUS)overturning of what was known as the Chevron doctrine.  Darcy and Darcy ask Paul about the impacts this ruling may have on Federal (and State) Water Project Operations, water projects, timing impacts, and more. Spoiler Alert! The United States Constitution plays a key role moving forward!  Imagine that! Listen in!We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

Allison Febbo, General Manager of Westlands Water District joins Darcy and Darcy this week for a long-awaited recharge, culture change, and water supply reliability (or is that unreliable water supply ?!) conversation. Allison has been in water for over two decades and served a wide variety of leadership roles however has only been at the helm of Westlands for about a year. In that short of time she has gotten Westland's Groundwater Sustainability Plan approved, forged new partnerships (Including an historical one with Metropolitan), and worked with growers to recharge almost 400,000-acre-feet.  That's almost half the capacity of Diamond Valley Lake reservoir people! In this episode there's lots of great questions, interesting water conversation, and as usual, Darcy and Darcy learn new things.  We hope you do too.  We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

It's Fourth of July week and it's the perfect time for Darcy and Darcy to share the top produce grown in California and pretty much – you guessed it - your entire summer fruit salad is provided by your friendly California Farmer!  And with California's Central Valley temperatures inching up past 110 for over a week, Darcy V shares his strategies on crop “sunscreen.” Darcy B discusses hazardous algae, another fun summer topic, and a special shout out to the farmer that sent Darcy B. her favorite cantaloupes just in time for America's birthday party.We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

This week Darcy and Darcy have some good news to share when they welcome Eddie Ocampo, Director of Community Sustainability with Self-Help Enterprises, a nationally recognized community development organization. Eddie and Self Help work with communities to build resiliency through housing, water reliability, waste-water services, and community development. They work collaboratively with other technical assistance organizations, funding entities, as well as state and federal agencies. Darcy and Darcy learn how Self-Help got started, and some of the projects Eddie is most proud of. They learned that when Central Valley California communities' have big problems – like the well has run dry - better than “I gotta guy,” call Eddie and Self Help. Listen in!We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

Jason Phillips, Chief Executive Officer of Friant Water Authority, and Water Blueprint for the San Joaquin Valley Blueprint Board Member joins Darcy and Darcy this week for an interesting and thought-provoking conversation.  Jason covers what the Blueprint is, who is part of it, why it is needed, new partnerships, and top priorities.  He also explains how the Blueprint works with the Central Valley's Groundwater Sustainability Agencies. Darcy and Darcy learn why Temperance Flats is not a priority project and you will too. They also learn the sobering statistic of what an annual 2-4 million-acre-foot water deficit looks like. Spoiler alert – it's not sad, it's devastating.We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

Steve Chedester, Director of Policy and Programs at the San Joaquin River Exchange Contractors Water Authority (Exchange Contractors) is back for part two of local project investments, the Orestimba Creek Recharge and Recovery Project – say that three times fast!  Steve shares information about a groundwater recharge project in the Del Puerto Water District's service area.  This project covers approximately 80 acres and has the capacity to store over 20,000-acre-feet of water, or for our urban listeners, that's enough water for 60,000 people for one year!  Located south of the Delta, and northeast of the San Luis Reservoir, this recharge project can be fed from the Delta Mendota Canal or from flood waters, when conditions exist. For this effort, the Exchange Contractors partnered with Del Puerto Water District. Information on this and other Exchange Contractors projects can be found on their website.We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

Darcy and Darcy welcome back Steve Chedester, Director of Policy and Programs at the San Joaquin River Exchange Contractors Water Authority (Exchange Contractors).  Steve shares some innovative infrastructure news that for us Water Nerds, is super exciting! The Exchange Contractors partnered with the San Luis Water District and the Grasslands Water District for the Los Banos Creek Detention Dam Reservoir Re-Regulation Project. (That was a mouthful!) This reservoir was once only used for the Central Valley Project Flood Control and now, through strategic improvements and re-purposing of existing infrastructure, yields new water reliability for the partners. The Project was made possible through Federal funding opportunities championed by Congressmen Costa and Duarte. Steve also provides an update on the San Joaquin River Restoration Project. You guessed it!  It's been 15 years and not a lot of infrastructure progress yet, the price tag for the project continues to go up.  A needed project without a viable funding source is problematic and additional funding is necessary to move forward.We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

Darcy and Darcy are discussing some pretty incredible milestone events this week.  First, the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California entered into two Memorandums of Understanding.  The first with Friant Water Authority and Westland Water District and the second with the San Joaquin Valley Blueprint. These non-binding agreements open the door to explore mutual beneficial groundwater storage projects as well as other water reliability efforts.  Urban and Ag are working together to solve big issues, and some said it would never happen!  It all starts with trust. Speaking of trust, Darcy B also shares some results from a recent Public Trust focus group study.  Spoiler alert – it's not good.  And the Darcys heard from you regarding their out-of-the-box water infrastructure funding ideas, more on that conversation to come.We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

Darcy and Darcy are back in the studio this week and tackle water affordability. With the USEPA finalizing the PFOS Maximum Contaminant Level at 4 PPT (Parts per trillion), California setting the Hexavalent Chromium 6) level at 10 PPB (Parts per billion), lead service line replacement costs, lower Arsenic standards coming, revised Lithium standards on the horizon, and microplastics regulations looming, how will Californians and Americans afford safe drinking water? Darcy B. shares the impacts of the costs of these treatment options including capital investments, operations, and disposal and what that might look like on your monthly water bill; let's just say it's not pretty. The Darcys discuss possibilities on other ways to cover costs, including some crazy tourism tax ideas, and hope you, our listeners, might have some answers. Join the conversation!We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

Darcy and Darcy welcome George Hawkins, founder and CEO of Moonshot Missions, a non-profit organization dedicated to clean and healthy water and waterways in underserved communities. Prior to starting Moonshot Missions, George was the General Manager of DC Water, where he served for eleven years, including several as a Board member. Darcy and Darcy discuss how Moonshot helps disadvantaged communities and tribal water and wastewater systems across the country, how they are funded, what makes them different, and how they might be able to help your community. Join the conversation!We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

This week JD Harkey, CEO of Drake Enterprises and Vice President of Rancho California Water District, joins Darcy and Darcy. JD farms and manages over 450 acres of wine grapes, avocados, citrus, and olives in the greater Temecula Valley. Elected to the Rancho California Water District Board of Directors in November of 2022, JD shares his challenges regarding the cost of water to Southern California AG and the direct impacts rising rates have on local family farmers, the community, as well as to the $2 billion local economy. Darcy V. and JD compare farming notes, they all join in some common water talk, and overall, it's a Grape Day in Temecula.We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

Darcy and Darcy are all alone this week discussing everything water and AG.  From potential So Cal Water rate increases, Climate Adaptation Management Planning, tomato planting, and pricing, to allocations. These two have been busy this last week, joining the conversations locally and at the state level, farming, and doing what they do. If you make this one to the end, the Darcy's have instructions on how to get a very special “gold star.” Join the conversation!We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

Senator Anna Caballero, who represents Senate District 14 which includes Merced, Madera, and Fresno Counties, joins Darcy and Darcy this week. The Senator discusses Darcy B's favorite bill this session, SB 366, rural California, water infrastructure, and the importance of Agriculture is to California's economy, and to National Security. The Senator shares some of her frustration at the Capitol, the benefits of the Rural Caucus, getting out into her district, and making a difference. Join the conversation!We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

Justin Wallin, a recognized expert in accurately measuring public opinion, forecasting outcomes, and identifying the most effective ways to influence thoughts and behaviors joins Darcy and Darcy this week and discusses a recent California voter poll. Justin covers questions he asked in the field including ocean desalination and water recycling investments, the importance of food to National Security, and more. There were some surprises and confirmation of some things we hoped were the case. Join the conversation!We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

Dominic Dimare, Partner from ARC Strategies, a full-service legislative advocacy firm, joins Darcy and Darcy in the studio this week.  The discussion includes California's legislature, how bills become laws, the enormous amount of legislation proposed, ongoing challenges, and an update on Darcy B's favorite piece of legislation this session, Senator Anna Caballero's SB 366.  Darcy and Darcy are just as surprised at some of the answers as you might be. Join the conversation!We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

Mitch Partovi, a water broker from The Water Agency, joins Darcy and Darcy in the studio and discusses California's Water market, how it works, the regulatory oversight, the benefits, and related value.  Darcy and Darcy ask some tough questions including monetization of water, the growing groundwater market considering the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act, and who benefits.  We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

It's February 2024 and the atmospheric rivers are upon us! Chris White, Executive Director of the San Joaquin River Water Authority Exchange Contractors joins Darcy and Darcy in the studio and discusses the current atmospheric river conditions, California reservoir management, and a preview of the ECPAC member meeting presentation on February 28th.  To reserve your spot at the meeting, visit us online. Reservations are required. We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

Bees play a critical role in California Agriculture.  Gene Brandi, longtime west coast beekeeper, industry spokesman, ambassador, subject matter expert, advocate, and industry leader joins Darcy and Darcy in the studio for a “buzzworthy” conversation.  They discuss the impacts water cutbacks have had on bees and the bee profession, including fallowing and land retirement.  Gene shares the work California beekeepers have done with farmers and the Almond Board to keep bees safe and healthy, and what we can do in our own backyards.  Gene even gave us a link to get some bee-friendly seeds to plant, for free!  For your seed packet, visit https://www.projectapism.org/seeds-for-bees.html. We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee. We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

Las Virgenes General Manager and President of Water ReUse California, Dave Pedersen joins Darcy and Darcy for a frank and raw discussion on direct potable reuse (DPR). In late December, the State Water Resources Control Board approved DPR regulations; these regs will govern water agencies looking to use their wastewater as a new drinking water resource. DPR takes advanced recycled water and treats it even further through technology, innovation, and safeguards to make it potable, or drinkable.  The Darcy's weren't on the same page, believe it or not, and the discussion includes asking Dave some tough questions on safety, cost, and most importantly, public acceptance.We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

State Water Project (SWP) Contractors' General Manager Jennifer Pierre joins Darcy and Darcy this week and Boy!  Did they have a lot to talk about!  Jennifer discusses the Governor's proposal for the Water Quality Control Plan update, the State Water Resources Control Board's (SWRCB) staff proposal which would have huge water costs across the state (2-Million-Acre-Feet of water lost to cities and farms) why it's so important that the (SWRCB) adopts the Voluntary Agreements (dubbed Healthy Rivers and Landscapes).  Jennifer lets them know why support is critical right now, the benefits of having everyone at the table, and the work that went into getting where we are today.  Bottom line - This proposal is so much more than Healthy Rivers! Darcy, Darcy, and Jennifer also discuss initial SWP allocation, disadvantaged communities, and water affordability.We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

Assembly Ag Committee Chair Esmeralda Sora joins Darcy and Darcy this week and shares her own frustrations with getting things done, the importance of water and ag to California and the nation, how she is working to bridge the gap between urban and ag policy makers, and her hopes on how we can and must do better. Let us know what you're thinking! You can provide your comments, suggestions, questions, or recommendations at https://www.ecwaterpac.com/podcast/. Thanks for tuning in!We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

Cannon Michael, the Chairman of the San Luis Delta and Mendota Water Authority, joins Darcy and Darcy this week and shares how they were able to secure the raising of the San Luis Reservoir Dam by 10 feet - creating an additional 130,000 acre feet of storage. Listen in and find out how they were able to pull this off, the estimated cost, their project partners, and the always challenging and usually disheartening, California capital improvement project schedule timeline.We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

Darcy and Darcy welcome Paul and Jackson Minasian of Minasian Law Firm.  Founded in 1841 by Paul's grandparents, the Minasian Law Firm, located in Oroville California, specializes in California Water Rights.  Paul walks Darcy and Darcy through California water rights history, the most basic types of water rights ,and provides a great foundation for our hosts and listeners.  What Darcy and Darcy know now for sure, this is just the tip of the iceberg!We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

This week, Darcy and Darcy were out in the wild! Darcy B shares her adventures on the Drought or Missed Opportunities Panel at the 15th Orange County Water Summit, where her name was mentioned as California's Water Czar candidate! Not to be outdone, Darcy V. shares his experience at the Association of California Water Agencies Region 6 & 7's San Joaquin Valley Forum on Groundwater.  With the Tulare Groundwater Basin about to experience State Water Resource Control Board Probation Hearings, the information Darcy V. shares is eye-opening, and the conversation it sparks is worth tuning in for! We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

This week, Darcy and Darcy celebrate the new water year by welcoming back Chris White, Executive Director of the San Joaquin River Exchange Contractors Authority.  Chris is an engineer, water manager, and exceptional historian. Darcy & Darcy asked Chris how we did in water-year 2022-2023, what storage looks like, what we could have done better, and how 2023-24 looks.  When they asked Chris if it was going to be wet or dry, he said... Listen in and find out!We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

This week, Darcy and Darcy welcome Ric Ortega, General Manager of Grasslands Water District. Grasslands is dedicated to the protection and delivery of water to the Grassland Resource Conservation District's 75,000 acres of private, state, and federal wildlife refuges. Habitat served by the district is recognized as a Wetland of International Importance under the RAMSAR Convention on Wetlands and is also designated as a Wetland of Global Significance, a critical component to the Western Hemispheric Shorebird Reserve Network. To learn more about the amazing ecosystem and environmental work they do, visit https://gwdwater.org/gwd/-- We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

Darcy and Darcy welcome Mike Wade, Executive Director of the California Food and Water Coalition (CFCW). CFWC is a non-profit, educational organization formed in 1989, providing fact-based information on farm water issues to the public. The organization works to help consumers, elected representatives, government officials and the media connect California water and our food supply. Mike shares with Darcy and Darcy the work CFCW has done, what they are working on now, the importance of social media influencers, and how things have changed.We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

Darcy and Darcy are on opposite sides once again!  This time they take their respective stands on the State Water Resources Control Board's staff recommendations to make Conservation a Way of Life for all Californians, regardless of water supply or availability. This new effort will put all Urban water agencies on a budget determined by SWRCB staff.  Darcy and Darcy discuss whether these efforts make a difference, if they detract from the water infrastructure investments that need to be made, and if this is how California's economy will not only survive but thrive.We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.

California can do better!  As promised, Darcy and Darcy are very excited to welcome into the studio, Congressman John Duarte.  Congressman Duarte is serving his first term in the 118th Congress as Representative of California's 13th District. Congressman Duarte shares his thoughts on California water management – or lack thereof, the federal Water for California Bill, and the importance – both to Ag and Urban residents – of the Farm Bill.  Listen in and hear his perspective on these very important issues.We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.