Theme: California doesn’t have a water problem – it has a storage and distribution deficiency

Many people believe the state has a water problem, but the issue lies in the state's storage and distribution systems. California is home to over 39 million people, making it the most populous state in the country. Its climate is Mediterranean, meaning the state receives the most precipitation in winter. However, the state has a complex network of dams and reservoirs that help store water for residents throughout the year.

But over the years, California's population has grown, and the water demand has increased. This has put pressure on the state's storage and distribution systems, which have struggled to keep up. The result is that water often goes to waste, with excess water from the winter months being lost due to inadequate storage.

In recent years, the state has faced severe droughts that have further highlighted the inadequacy of its water infrastructure. As a result, many experts argue that California doesn't have a water problem per se but rather a storage and distribution deficiency.

So what can be done to address this issue? Some experts suggest investing in better water storage and distribution infrastructure, such as expanding the state's reservoirs and dams. Others propose improving water conservation efforts and reducing water waste.

In this conversation, we explore the issue of water scarcity in California and discuss potential solutions to the state's storage and distribution challenges.

TEDxSantaBarbaraSalon - Virtual Event
1482 E Valley Road, Suite 466
Santa Barbara, California, 93108
United States

William Skinner

President, Water Policy Expert

Bill Skinner grew up in California's Central Valley. He graduated from California State University Fresno with a BA in Political Science/Public Administration and a MA in Applied Anthropology, specializing in Man and his Built Environment. During college, he joined Sigma Nu Fraternity, holding various officer positions and receiving the Alumni of the Year award in 1995. He is a Master Mason and member of the Scottish Rite. Bill has over 30 years of experience in government service and private consulting. He held Director/Manager positions in various municipal government agencies in Madera & Fresno Counties, including Community Development, Development Services, Redevelopment, Economic Development, Public Works, and Assistant City Manager. He concluded his public sector career as City Manager, one of the youngest in the State at the time. After leaving government service, Bill formed Catalyst Consulting & Acquisitions, a multidisciplinary firm that manages large development projects.