FRESNO (KMJ) — A plan is underway to overturn a federal rule that protects the Delta Smelt.
The ruling – which dates back to the 1970s – has reduced the amount of water than can be pumped.
The plan was to keep more fresh water in the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta – but limits the amount of water delivered to growers in the valley.
According to the LA Times – lawyers for the metropolitan water district of southern California – another one of those affected by the original ruling – say the amount of water withheld during the winter of 2012 – 2013 would have been enough to supply the entire San Diego region.
The pumping limits have been backed as recently as last year – by the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.
The renewed water dispute is raised in two new appeals – one from a coalition of water agencies – the other from central valley growers.
The justices are set to meet Friday to consider them.
