Submitted by Phyllis Couper
Here find comments on the California’s water problems by Edward Ring, Director of the Energy and Water Policy, with the California Policy Center.
It seems the concept of abundance is the latest buzzword for fixing California’s water problems.
Edward Ring: “The concept of “abundance”. California is now home to “The Abundance Network,” with chapters in San Francisco, Oakland, and Santa Monica. Earlier this year, Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson co-authored the book “Abundance,” which became an instant best seller. With a focus on water projects and water policy, here are a few of the principles that might govern an abundance movement that is serious about outcomes.
Abundant water is feasible and sustainable,
Reasonable environmentalism is compatible with abundance,
An all-of-the-above approach to water supply projects ensures resilience,
State and federal funds, along with private sector funds, are needed to upgrade and expand water supply infrastructure; the local rate base is not enough,
To win politically, urban and rural water interests must unite behind a common policy and project agenda.
It’s too soon to tell what the abundance movement will accomplish. Much of its momentum comes from YIMBY developers who are specifically focused on infill. But in their book, Klein and Thompson ask a lot of good questions and expose the paralysis that grips any project, especially in California. And at least Governor Newsom is saying some of the things we need to hear as a first step toward change.”
California Globe, June 26, 2025
Phyllis Couper