Capitol Rally Tomorrow to Call for Action on Water

Local Water Leaders to Gather on East Steps as Part of ACWA Conference


SACRAMENTO, CA--(Marketwire - May 19, 2009) - Hundreds of local water leaders and stakeholders will gather on the East Steps of the State Capitol tomorrow to call for action on long-term solutions to the state's water supply challenges.

The rally, organized by the Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA), takes place as water agencies around the state confront an array of challenges, including a third consecutive dry year and restrictions on water deliveries to protect fish species in the Delta. ACWA and its members are urging lawmakers to act on a comprehensive set of solutions that includes investments in the state's water infrastructure, conservation, ecosystem restoration, water recycling and other strategies.

Legislators and key stakeholders will address the crowd and help raise the visibility of the water issue. Confirmed speakers include Assembly Members Michael Villines (R-Clovis), Jared Huffman (D-San Rafael), Anna Caballero (D-Salinas) and Senator Dave Cogdill (R-Fresno). ACWA President Glen Peterson will speak on the need for comprehensive solutions as well.

    WHAT: Rally for Action on Water Now
    WHEN: May 20, 2009, 1:30 to 3 p.m.
    WHERE: State Capitol, East Steps

The rally coincides with ACWA's 2009 Spring Conference & Exhibition this week at the Sacramento Convention Center and surrounding hotels. Prior to the rally, ACWA members will march en masse from the Sheraton Grand Hotel to the Capitol.

More information about the rally and the ACWA conference is available at www.acwa.com.

ACWA is a statewide association of public agencies whose 450 members are responsible for about 90% of the water delivered in California. For more information, visit www.acwa.com.

Contact Information: Contact: Jennifer Persike ACWA Director of Strategic Coordination and Public Affairs 916/441-4545 916/296-3981 (cell)