This Division of the Water Code of California, known as the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Reform Act of 2009, concerns the policy of the State of California in respect of the Delta’s water and environmental resources and the water resources. The longstanding constitutional principle of reasonable use and the public trust doctrine shall be the foundation of state water management policy and are particularly important and applicable to the Delta. This Division does not affect specified legislation diminish, impair, or otherwise affect in any manner whatsoever any area of origin, watershed of origin, county of origin, or any other water rights protections, including, but not limited to, rights to water appropriated prior to December 19, 1914, provided under the law. The Delta Stewardship Council, established under this Act, shall develop and implement a strategy to appropriately engage participation of the federal agencies with responsibilities in the Delta. This strategy shall include engaging these federal agencies to develop the Delta Plan consistent with the federal Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, the federal Clean Water Act, and Section 8 of the federal Reclamation Act of 1902. The council shall appoint a Delta Independent Science Board, whereas the Department of Fish and Game, in consultation with the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service and based on the best available science, shall develop and recommend to the board Delta flow criteria and quantifiable biological objectives for aquatic and terrestrial species of concern dependent on the Delta. The Act also consistency of state and local public agency actions, the appointment of a Delta Watermaster and the Delta Plan, which shall promote statewide water conservation, water use efficiency, and sustainable use of water.
Estados Unidos de América · 2009-01-01