The Bay-Delta is always in the news. But 2016 will see headlines about some significant developments – particularly in relation to the $15.5 billion twin tunnels proposal.

The “State of the Delta: Tunnels, Habitat and More” panel at the March 17 Executive Briefing will feature five leading experts representing a broad slate of stakeholders. Some of the key issues to be discussed:

• California WaterFix and the twin tunnels: What is the status of the environmental impact report regarding the two tunnels that would transport water from north of the Delta to the south? What will happen once the State Water Resources Control Board begins its April hearings on the water rights/change in diversion point for the State Water Project and federal Central Valley Project? What is the view of in-Delta residents, environmentalist and urban and agricultural exporters?
• Ongoing water project operations: Is El Niño a bust? After four years of drought, depleted reservoirs and a snowpack below average, water exports and deliveries south of the Delta will be a challenge. What is anticipated for 2016?
• The ecosystem and Delta habitat: California EcoRestore was split off the original Bay Delta Conservation Plan. How much and what kind of habitat is being proposed for restoration? What does that mean for the ecosystem and endangered Delta smelt? What is the latest on Metropolitan Water District of Southern California’s interest in buying four Delta islands?

Register here for the Foundation’s flagship event.

Read more details about the event by clicking headlines below:

Top Policy Experts and Issues Key to California’s Water Future on Tap for Executive Briefing

Bid on Lunch with Lester Snow, Rita Schmidt Sudman’s New Book at Executive Briefing Auction