We ventured through California’s Central Valley, known as the nation’s breadbasket thanks to an imported supply of surface water and local groundwater. 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.

The 3-day, 2-night tour focused 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. The tour gave 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 visited 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. The tour begins and ends at Sacramento International Airport.

What attendees said 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.”

“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.”

Stops Include:

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

Topics covered:

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

Pricing Details:

Regular Price – $890 (one-person single occupancy room)

Early Bird Price - $865 if you register online by Feb. 21. Click on the Eventbrite button above.

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

Refunds and Cancellations:

Refunds can be made up until two weeks prior to the tour due to hotel and restaurant bookings. Substitutions can be made up to three days prior to the start of the tour. Refunds may be subject to a 10% processing fee.

Tour Start and End Points:

This tour started and ended at Sacramento International Airport.

MCLE and Other Continuing Education Credits:

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