Join us as we venture through California’s Central Valley, known as the nation’s breadbasket thanks to an imported supply of surface water and local groundwater wells. Covering about 20,000 square miles through the heart of the state, the valley provides 25 percent of the nation’s food, including 40 percent of all fruits, nuts and vegetables consumed throughout the country.

This 3-day, 2-night tour focuses on the San Joaquin Valley, the southern part of the vast region, which is facing challenges after years of severe drought, dwindling water supplies, decreasing water quality and farmland conversion for urban growth. This tour gives participants an understanding of the region’s water use and issues as well as the agricultural practices, including new technologies and water-saving measures.

Participants will visit farms and some of the state’s major infrastructure, such as Friant Dam and the San Luis Reservoir, as well as the San Luis National Wildlife Refuge, a major wintering ground and migratory stopover point for large concentrations of waterfowl and shorebirds.

What attendees say about this tour:

“This was a fantastic tour. In three days, I had the opportunity to meet numerous experts in the field. It was a nice blend of speakers. I am looking forward to reviewing all the handout materials.”

What did you like best?

“As a water engineer new to California, it gave me a much better perspective of differing objectives and opportunities to clients.”

“The information the speakers presented. Also, the range and differing views. First-hand engagement of local districts/farmers and being able to see things for myself.”

Planned Stops Include:

• Kern County Water Bank
• San Joaquin River
• Terminus Dam
• Mendota Pool
• Friant Dam
• San Luis National Wildlife Refuge
• San Luis Reservoir

Topics Include:

• Impacts of growth
• Water supply and drought
• Flood management
• Groundwater banking
• Surface water storage
• Subsidence
• Wetlands
• Salmon restoration
• Agricultural supply and drainage

Pricing Details:

Regular Price – $790 (one-person single occupancy room)

Early Bird Price – $765 if you register online by March 13. Click on the Eventbrite button above.

Fee includes all tour meals, transportation, materials, snacks and hotel accommodations once the tour begins. Participants are responsible for their own transportation to and from the tour’s beginning and end point.

Tour Start and End Point:

This tour starts and ends at the Sacramento International Airport.

Cancellation and Refund Policy:

Deadline to cancel and receive a full refund is two weeks prior to the first day of the tour due to hotel, meal and transportation bookings.

Substitutions are allowed up to three business days before the tour.

Continuing Educational Credits:

Continuing education credits may be available for an additional fee for attorneys and water plant, wastewater plant operators, and other vocations/professions.