Gavin Newsom backs Bill Maher as comedian takes aim at almond farmers amid California's water crisis
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: In a recent exchange that unfolded on a television show, comedian Bill Maher took a bold stance against almond farmers, criticizing their water consumption.
California Governor Gavin Newsom, in a surprising turn, acknowledged Maher's concerns, signaling a potential shift in the ongoing water management debate in the state.
Bill Maher challenges Gavin Newsom on water crisis
Maher opened the discussion with a sharp remark about making California a better state for everyone. He commended Newsom for his efforts in legislative priorities, particularly focusing on water-related issues.
The comedian highlighted the precarious state of water resources, pointing out the inadequacy of water in the Colorado River.
"When I read 80 per cent of the water goes to agriculture, almonds, no one ever asked you about almonds. I'm going to ask you about almonds," Maher challenged Newsom.
Gavin Newsom acknowledges water shortages
Newsom responded with a candid acknowledgment of the water challenges, stating, "We still don't have enough water in the Colorado River, and all this stuff." He recognized the pressing need to address the state's water management issues and commended Maher for shedding light on the almond industry's water consumption.
Newsom continued by sharing a staggering statistic, "You know how much water it takes – 1900 gallons to grow a pound of almonds." Maher urged the governor to take on what he termed "big almonds."
"I mean, it's not like we don't have the water. But what you're right about is not that we don't have the water," responded Newsom, acknowledging the severity of the situation in recent years.
He attributed the problem not just to water scarcity but also to the inadequate usage of available water, especially during extreme weather conditions.
Gavin Newsom's vision for water reform
Newsom outlined a comprehensive plan to address these challenges, emphasizing the need to modernize the state's conveyance and storage systems, both above and below ground.
He mentioned ongoing projects, including desalinization plants and the revival of the Delta conveyance project, to create the first above-ground off-stream storage facility in half a century.
"We've got to modernize our conveyance system; we've got to modernize our storage not just above ground but below ground. That's a big part of our focus and frame, including desalinization plants. We have 20 projects just on deal that we're working on today," Newsom elaborated.
He concluded by highlighting the importance of a detailed water strategy, addressing Maher's concerns about bureaucratic red tape and emphasizing the urgency of tackling California's water challenges.
