Representatives of some of California's leading agricultural bodies have highlighted a "litany of positives" in the state's recently introduced drought legislation for its "short term and long term solutions to California's needs".

In a statement, California Citrus Mutual president Joel Nelsen, California Fresh Fruit Association president George Radanovich and California Cotton Ginners & Growers Association and Western Agricultural Processors Association president Roger Isom, echoed the words of Senator Dianne Feinstein - "this bill isn't perfect but I do believe it will help California".

"The words above uttered by U. S. Senator Feinstein, accurately sums up our feelings regarding the California drought legislation introduced yesterday and attached to the Water Resources Development Act," the industry leaders said.

"Our collective email accounts were inundated with announcements and summaries yesterday and over last night we collectively read the pertinent language addressing California's drought and aging infrastructure needs.

"The crescendo of concern expressed by those opposing would have us living in an undeveloped California, foregoing ingenuity and the forward thinking that once helped turn California into a leading producer of food and fiber."

They said the bill removed a type of subjective intuition that had never been held accountable as a pathway to achieve goals. 

"Science that is vetted will create solutions for fish, families and farming," they said.

"Funds are authorized that begins a process to create more water efficiencies and create more water for a state seeking environmental and community relief.

"We commend Senator Feinstein and Congressman McCarthy for their tireless efforts to achieve a viable compromise on an import issue.

"Our thanks to Congressmen Valadao, Nunes, Calvert, Costa, and Garamendi for expressing their support and helping lead Congress to the goal line."

www.freshfruitportal.com