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Current dry conditions statewide are a reminder of just how important those investments are. The emerging drought also serves as a reminder that Sacramento should not impose one-size-fits-all mandates for combating drought like it did during the 2012-2016 drought. At that time, unprecedented state water-use decrees unnecessarily undermined regions like San Diego that had prepared for dry times. 

It would be especially damaging to restart the drought cycle with sweeping one-size-fits all demands that are inequitable and counterproductive. That approach would depress our economy just as it’s restarting after the year-long pandemic pause. Instead, the state should employ a stress test methodology for water agencies that acknowledges the unique circumstances of each area of the state and allows for local, targeted, real-time responses.