C.W. “Bill” Jones (1918-2003) was an historical water figure known for his pioneering efforts in bringing water deliveries to the agricultural land in the San Joaquin Valley.

His multi-generational family farm is located in the Firebaugh area of Fresno County on the west side of the San Joaquin Valley. Throughout his life he was actively involved in issues involving the federal Central Valley Project and California State Water Project.

In 1968 Governor Ronald Reagan appointed him to serve on the California Water Commission. For 20 years he served as president of the San Luis & Delta-Mendota Water Authority. He also served as president of the Firebaugh Resource Conservation District, Las Deltas Mutual Water Company, Silver Creek Drainage District and vice president of the Firebaugh Canal Water District.

He has been described as a “tireless worker on behalf of California water interests.” In 1992 he was interviewed for the Water Education Foundation publication, “Memories of the Early Days of California Water Development.” The Tracy Pumping Plant, a major facility of the Bureau of Reclamation’s CVP, was renamed the C.W. “Bill” Jones Pumping Plant in his honor.

C.W. “Bill” Jones is the father of Bill Jones, former California Secretary of State and member of the state Assembly.