As directed by Gov. Gavin Newsom, the California Natural Resources Agency announced Friday that the California Department of Water Resources will withdraw plans for a twin-tunnel water conveyance project and instead advance a single-tunnel solution for the Sacramento-San Joaquin Bay Delta.

In response, SCV Water General Manager Matt Stone issued the following statement:

“It is reassuring that Governor Newsom recognizes that the status quo is not an option and that the outdated and vulnerable conveyance system through the Delta must be updated.

“While we are aggressively pursuing projects to expand local supplies, like groundwater recharge and recycling, it isn’t an ‘either-or’ option. To ensure a diverse water supply – one that will be resilient through climate change and potential earthquakes across California – we also need a modern conveyance solution through the Delta.

“We support the Newsom administration’s decision, and look forward to participating in a project that will both meet water reliability needs and minimize impacts to the communities and ecology of the Delta.”

The Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta viewed from above Sherman Island, with the Sacramento River above and San Joaquin River below. | Photo: WorldIslandInfo.com/Wikipedia.