Water is the fundamental fuel that powers the California economy. Development of the state's water storage and delivery system has enabled the state to become the nation's leading industrial and agricultural producer. Standing alone, California boasts the world's seventh-largest economy. The Delta is the key link in this complex system.

Over generations, Californians have invested billions of dollars in developing our water supply system. This investment sustains and extends our job base. Literally millions of jobs in the industrial and agricultural sectors depend on a reliable supply of good quality water. Whether it's a high-tech computer chip maker in the Silicon Valley, or the San Joaquin Valley walnut grower, or the Los Angeles food processor, the Delta is the major source for the water that makes that economic activity possible.

Beyond jobs, California's much-envied quality of life is also highly dependent on reliable water supplies. From the golf course to the lake to the neighborhood park, water is a critical ingredient to the lifestyle we have come to take for granted.

Water shortages can exact a tremendous toll on both our economy and our lifestyle. One study during the recent drought indicated that just a 30-percent water shortage could cost more than 46,000 high-paying jobs and reduce industrial production by nearly $12 billion.