Formed by the confluence of the state’s two longest rivers—the Sacramento and the San Joaquin— California’s Delta is one of the most valuable and unique natural resources in the state and nation. Nearly two‐thirds of the state’s population relies on the Delta watershed for all or part of its drinking water. Much of California’s irrigated agriculture is dependent on water from the Delta watershed and so, too, is the state’s iconic salmon fishery.

The Delta is home to more than half a million residents. The many islands and waterways form important habitat for hundreds of plant and animal species. Additionally, tourism and recreation opportunities draw visitors to the estuary from the state and around the world. The Delta also contains major infrastructure of statewide importance, including aqueducts, natural gas pipelines, electricity transmission lines, railroads, shipping channels, and highways.

Despite the Delta’s importance, the challenges of effectively addressing both water supply and ecosystem needs have led to increased conflicts over time. The natural resources of the Delta have not been effectively protected, nor are reliable supplies of water being provided for California. The challenges in meeting these often competing uses are compounded by new scientific information suggesting increased risks from climate change and the potential for increased flooding along Delta tributaries.

Creating the Council
In November 2009 the California Legislature enacted SBX7 1 (Delta Reform Act), one of several bills passed at this time related to water supply reliability, ecosystem health, and the Delta. The Act became effective on Feb. 3, 2010. In the Act, the Legislature advanced several broad goals, including the coequal goals, a concept central to understanding the Delta Reform Act and the state’s Delta policy:

Achieve the two coequal goals of providing a more reliable water supply for California and protecting, restoring, and enhancing the Delta ecosystem. The coequal goals shall be achieved in a manner that protects and enhances the unique cultural, recreational, natural resource, and agricultural values of the Delta as an evolving place.

Protect, maintain, and, where possible, enhance and restore the overall quality of the Delta environment, including, but not limited to, agriculture, wildlife habitat, and recreational activities.

Ensure orderly, balanced conservation and development of Delta land resources.

Improve flood protection by structural and nonstructural means to ensure an increased level of public health and safety.

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