News Water Issues
Saltwater contamination in California rivers challenges fruit, vegetable farmers

Rio Vista, Calif. – The U.S. West is experiencing its driest period in about 1,200 years, scientists say, and it’s had a profound effect on California’s agriculture industry. In normal years, freshwater flows from the mountains into the Sacramento River. This year’s dry winter, however, resulted in less available freshwater, allowing the Pacific Ocean to push more saltwater into the Delta – known as the state’s key water hub. The Delta typically supplies water to about two-thirds of California’s population, including irrigation for fruit and vegetable farming. Farmers say they are trying to hang on until the water quality improves. National Post report | READ MORE