San Francisco, Calif. – Audubon California today released the following statement from Executive Director Brigid McCormack today in response to new drought-related language being inserted into the Water Resources Development Act late in the Lame Duck Congress:

“We are greatly disappointed to see this language inserted into must-pass Congressional legislation that stands to undermine the Endangered Species Act and destabilize the Central Valley refuges that millions of birds rely on for survival each year. This language should be removed.

The proposed language is particularly dangerous because it was developed in private negotiations between Congressional leadership, large water districts, and agribusinesses who have long been hostile to protecting the Delta ecosystem. Conservation organizations were excluded from these discussions.

This legislation doesn’t try to solve problems by investing in water conservation, water capture, recycling, and reuse, or developing projects with economic and ecological benefits. Instead, it really is just a move to benefit a few powerful special interests while harming birds, fish, and other wildlife.”

About Audubon California 

Audubon California is building a better future for California by bringing people together to appreciate, enjoy and protect our spectacular outdoor treasures. With more than 350,000 members and supports in California and an affiliated 49 local Audubon chapters, Audubon California is a field program of the National Audubon Society.

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