Supervisor Daurice Kalfsbeek Smith, who chairs the Colusa County Board of Supervisors, participated in the annual Family Water Alliance (FWA) event held in Colusa. The event focused on water supply reliability, agricultural priorities, and environmental management in the region.
The FWA was established by local residents to address how water regulations affect farming. Its annual gathering brings together community leaders and policymakers to discuss California’s ongoing water infrastructure challenges and possible solutions. Among those present were U.S. Representative Mike Thompson (CA-04) and Assemblymember Cecilia Aguiar-Curry (AD-04).
Chair Smith highlighted the importance of developing integrated water policies that consider both economic and cultural factors for Sacramento Valley’s agricultural communities. The discussions at the event covered regulatory impacts, options for water storage, and strategies for balancing supply between urban needs, environmental requirements, and agriculture.
“Water is the lifeblood of Colusa County, and our future depends on effective, sustainable management policies forged through strong collaboration,” said Chair Smith. “Having direct, face-to-face discussions with leaders like Congressman Thompson and Assemblymember Aguiar-Curry is invaluable. It ensures our federal and state representatives understand the real-world impact that water decisions have on our farmers, our economy, and our rural communities right here on the ground.”
The presence of officials from different levels of government at the event emphasized both the regional importance of FWA’s work and Colusa County’s role in shaping California’s water policy debate. The county has stated its commitment to working with lawmakers and regional partners to ensure its interests are represented in legislative and budgetary processes.