President Donald Trump signed an executive order directing federal agencies to increase water deliveries from California's Central Valley Project, incorrectly linking the action to fighting Los Angeles wildfires.
The order instructs the Department of Interior and Department of Commerce to "override existing activities" that limit water deliveries, specifically targeting endangered species protections that regulate water flow through the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta.
While Trump cited LA fires as justification, experts note that the Central Valley Project primarily serves agricultural interests, with approximately 75% of its water going to farms. The remaining portion supplies cities and towns in the San Joaquin Valley, including Sacramento and Fresno.
Local fire and utility officials clarified that recent water pressure issues during LA fires stemmed from infrastructure limitations, not water supply shortages. Los Angeles primarily draws its water from the Owens Valley and groundwater sources, not the Delta or Central Valley systems.
The order could override rules implemented by the Biden administration in December, which aimed to balance water deliveries with environmental protections. Environmental groups warn the action threatens endangered fish species and California's authority over its water resources.
"Do not be fooled by Trump's lies: none of the policies in this executive order will move even a single drop of extra water to communities devastated by these wildfires," said U.S. Rep. Jared Huffman, ranking member of the House Natural Resources Committee.
The Westlands Water District, representing farmers in Kings and Fresno counties, welcomed the order, stating current approaches "have not been working; not for the people, for agriculture, or for the fish."
The president's recent statements about California water have raised concerns about his understanding of the state's water systems. He incorrectly claimed water flows into California from Canada and the Pacific Northwest, when most water actually comes from Sierra Nevada snowmelt.
The executive order also includes provisions to expedite aid for Southern California wildfire victims and Hurricane Helene recovery in North Carolina, directing federal agencies to accelerate debris removal and housing relief efforts.