The California State University (CSU) has been asked to assist the state in the establishment of a statewide reporting and research effort to help the state’s water infrastructure management process for meeting California’s future water needs. Senate Bill 261 (Dutton) was introduced to designate the CSU system as the lead entity for the collection and management of statewide water use data, using its Water Resources Policy Initiative (WRP).

This need has arisen out of a goal established by the Governor which calls for a reduction in per capita water use of 20 percent by the year 2020. While significant progress has been made in the past to better utilize water resources, local water agencies are going to need new and flexible approaches to achieve the desired aggregate statewide goals.

The CSU believes a successful approach must recognize the water rights of California communities and the individual right of water agencies to adapt to local conditions and determine the most appropriate and cost-effective measures that will help them meet this challenge. New efficiency goals will require measurement and information systems at a scale we have not seen to date in California.

At present there is no single entity currently equipped for this important task and in light of California’s current water supply issues it needs to proceed without delay in implementing a plan.

SB 261 names the CSU as the entity to provide a fair and transparent process through 2020 and beyond for the collection, analysis and reporting of water conservation and water efficiency data. The neutrality and connectedness of the CSU system to all parts of the state will ensure the unique circumstances and needs of all stakeholders can be addressed. If passed the CSU will monitor and objectively report the progress of local agencies in meeting long-term conservation and water use efficiency goals for California.

Specifically, SB 261 will charge the CSU with the following work for the state:

• Develop an open, effective and transparent process;
• Build trust for the process by listening to statewide public input about local needs;
• Develop sound standard procedures;
• Create and maintain a statewide database;
• Review and evaluate plans and reports assessing whether plans collectively accomplish goals;
• Provide locally cost effective recommendations for improvements to help the State meet its 20 percent goal by 2020; and
• Submit an annual report to the Legislature.

SB 261 was heard in Assembly Water, Parks and Wildlife Committee last week and passed with a unanimous vote. The bill will now move onto the Assembly Appropriations Committee and will be heard by the end of August.