Mandatory Farm Water Cuts Likely to Survive Legal Challenge

FRESNO, Calif. (KMJ) — A Sacramento judge believes the thousands of notices sent to California farmers, agencies, and corporations with water rights telling them to cease pumping, are legal.

Judge Shelleyanne Chang had ruled that earlier notices were improper.

The California Water Resources Control Board is being permitted to fine those who take water when there’s not enough.

However, Judge Chang has not issued a final ruling.

Several cases involving irrigation districts’ rights to divert water for crops are pending.