Leaders from across the Sacramento region gathered May 11 at the Sofia Tsakopoulos Center for the Arts to celebrate the signing of the Water Forum 2050 Agreement, marking a major milestone in the region’s long-standing collaborative approach to water management.
The updated agreement builds on the original 2000 Water Forum Agreement and continues the region’s commitment to two coequal objectives: providing a reliable water supply for the region’s economy and communities while protecting the fishery, wildlife, recreational, and aesthetic values of the Lower American River.
Representatives from water suppliers, environmental organizations, business groups, and public agencies participated in the event, which featured keynote remarks from California Natural Resources Secretary Wade Crowfoot and recognition of the individuals who helped shape both the original agreement and the Water Forum 2050 process.
“Water Forum 2050 demonstrates what is possible when diverse interests stay at the table and work toward shared solutions,” said Water Forum Executive Director Ashlee Casey. “At a time when climate change is placing increasing pressure on California’s water systems and rivers, this agreement reflects a continued regional commitment to collaboration, adaptation, and stewardship of the Lower American River.”
The Water Forum process began in the 1990s in response to growing concerns about the health of the Lower American River, water supply reliability, and groundwater declines. Since the original agreement was signed in 2000, the region has invested in major water supply and habitat enhancement projects while avoiding the conflicts and litigation that often accompany water management issues in California.
The Water Forum 2050 Agreement updates and extends that collaborative framework in response to new challenges driven by climate change, including hotter temperatures, shrinking snowpack, more intense droughts and floods, and increasing pressure on river ecosystems.
“California faces growing water challenges driven by climate change, and the Sacramento region continues to demonstrate the value of collaboration and long-term planning with a multi-benefit approach,” Crowfoot said. “The Water Forum 2050 Agreement reflects the kind of regional leadership and partnership that will be essential to protecting water supplies, supporting healthy rivers, and preparing communities for the future.”
A key component of the updated agreement is the American River Climate Adaptation Program (ARCAP), a regional strategy intended to improve water management flexibility and protect cold water in the Lower American River during critically dry periods. ARCAP will strive to connect conservation, groundwater recharge, reservoir operations, and regional infrastructure projects into a coordinated system supporting both water supply reliability and environmental stewardship.
“The Water Forum has helped create a foundation of trust and transparency that allows this region to respond to challenges together,” Casey said. “Now the focus turns to implementation—continuing the work needed to strengthen water supply reliability, protect the Lower American River, and prepare the region for a changing climate.”
Find a list of Water Forum signatories here.
Perspectives from Water Forum Members
Rosario Rodriguez, Supervisor, Sacramento County
“Water is at the heart of what makes Sacramento County a great place to live, work, and raise a family — and that means protecting both the tap and the river. The Water Forum 2050 Agreement ensures we don’t have to choose between a reliable water supply and a healthy American River. After more than two decades of proving that balance is possible, we are proud to renew that commitment.”
Kevin McCarty, Mayor, City of Sacramento
“Thirty years ago, this region chose collaboration over conflict and long-term planning over short-term thinking. The Water Forum 2050 Agreement carries that tradition forward, helping Sacramento prepare for more extreme conditions while continuing to support economic growth, reliable water supplies, and a healthy Lower American River.”
Robert Heidt, President & CEO, Sacramento Metro Chamber
“As a proud member of the Water Forum Business Caucus, the Sacramento Metro Chamber recognizes the critical role long-term water reliability plays in the economic vitality and sustainability of the Capital Region. The Water Forum 2050 Agreement reflects years of thoughtful collaboration between business, environmental, civic, and public sector leaders to advance solutions that support both a healthy environment and a thriving regional economy. This agreement is an important step forward in ensuring our region is prepared for future growth, climate challenges, and the evolving needs of our communities.”
Ted Rauh, Water Committee Lead, Environmental Council of Sacramento
“The Lower American River is an ecological treasure that supports wildlife, recreation, and our region’s identity. The Water Forum 2050 Agreement, with the innovative ARCAP, provides the framework we need to protect this vital resource and provide for the region’s needed water supply as climate pressures grow.”
Gary Bardini, Director of Planning, Sacramento Area Flood Control Agency (SAFCA)
“Water Forum 2050 shows what’s possible when public agencies collaborate with a broad range of partners to achieve common goals. This agreement strengthens the region’s ability to prepare for climate extremes—from floods to droughts—while safeguarding the health of the Lower American River.”
Mike Grinstead, Acting Chief of Water Supply, Sacramento County Water Agency
“Water Forum 2050 is critical for water supply reliability as we move into an uncertain future. It provides the long-range foundation that is needed to adapt to changing conditions and manage our surface and groundwater resources in a sustainable way.”
