Funding will go towards water storage improvements and protection of wildlife refuges in the wake of this year’s historic flooding

August 11, 2023 - WASHINGTON  – Representative Josh Harder recently secured $10 million for the Los Vaqueros Reservoir Expansion Project Phase II, which will improve water supply and protect wildlife refuges in the Central Valley. Since stepping foot in Congress, Rep. Harder has secured over $100 million for water projects - which is the largest investment in Central Valley water storage in the last 50 years.

“Water is the lifeblood of the Central Valley and we’re finally seeing the critical investments we need to grow and secure our water supply,” saidRep. Harder. “This funding will make a huge difference in the lives of our community members, leading to more jobs, more crops, and more drinkable water for San Joaquin families. Securing funding for locally led water storage projects ensures that our community has control over its  most precious resource.” 

After the historic rainfall this year, the Central Valley is in dire need of increased water storage to improve water supply reliability, water quality, and recreation. This funding will help expand the Los Vaqueros Reservoir from 160,000 acre-feet to 275,000 acre-feet. Additionally, the investments in wildlife refuges along the Pacific Flyway will provide protection against habitat loss, water shortages, and climate change. 

This investment was authorized under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and follows the over $146 million in funding Representative Harder has secured for the Los Vaqueros Reservoir. 
Source: Congressman Josh Harder