Former President Donald Trump recently ordered the Army Corps of Engineers to release more water from reservoirs in California’s Central Valley. While Trump believes this will solve the state’s water issues, experts and local officials are warning of potential disasters, especially for farmers.
Trump’s decision is based on his claim that California’s recent wildfires were caused by poor water management. He suggested that water was either being blocked or wasted by being sent into the ocean. However, California officials have strongly denied this, explaining that the fires were mainly caused by strong winds, power issues, and other logistical challenges, not a lack of water.
Despite the state’s explanation, Trump celebrated his directive on his social media platform, Truth Social. He shared a post saying, “Photo of beautiful water flow that I just opened in California. Today, 1.6 billion gallons and, in 3 days, it will be 5.2 billion gallons. Everybody should be happy about this long fought Victory! I only wish they listened to me six years ago – There would have been no fire!”
However, local officials in California were alarmed when they were suddenly informed that water flow from two reservoirs would be increased to full capacity. This abrupt decision raised fears of severe flooding in nearby communities and farmlands.
According to Camille von Kaenel and Annie Snider of Politico, the Army Corps of Engineers warned local officials just one hour before they were set to release the water. Victor Hernandez, a water manager in Tulare County, expressed his concern, saying, “I’ve been here 25 years, and I’ve never been given notice that quick. That was alarming and scary.” Officials had to rush to warn farmers and move equipment to prevent damage.
Experts are also worried about the risks involved. A former senior official from the Bureau of Reclamation criticized the move, stating, “Something really bad could happen because of their nonsensical approach. Floods are real. This isn’t playing around with a software company.”
California officials continue to push back against Trump’s claims, insisting that wildfires are caused by climate and infrastructure issues rather than water mismanagement. While Trump’s order might increase water availability, it could also lead to unintended consequences such as dangerous flooding and destruction of farmlands.
