New Congressman Valadao Addresses Friant Directors

New Congressman Valadao Addresses Friant Directors

The southern San Joaquin Valley’s newest Congressman got together with the Friant Water Authority Board of Directors January 31 to talk water. Rep. David G. Valadao(R-Hanford), who took office in January to represent the 21stCongressional District, addressed the FWA board and district managers for 15 minutes during a meeting in Visalia.

Rep. David G. Valadao

The Hanford farmer and dairyman was elected in November after having served two years in the California Assembly. He made it clear that he was on hand to listen and learn more about water issues.
“Water is a very important issue to him,” said Ronald D. Jacobsma, FWA General Manager. “The Congressman made it clear he is willing to work with everyone to resolve water issues.”
Jacobsma added, “The Authority is looking forward to working with him along with all of the other members of the valley’s Congressional delegation.”

‘BIG CHALLENGE’

Valadao has stated he is well aware that water supply reliability and sustainability is a big challenge to the San Joaquin Valley’s economy.
“As a dairyman and farmer, I truly understand what it means to suffer a drought,” he has said. “One of my top priorities in Congress is working to maintain and improve California’s water infrastructure.  Congress must work to cut the environmental red tape that causes manmade droughts.  We must ensure our nation’s environmental laws place the water needs of America’s families and farmers first.
“Although steps can be taken to improve water use efficiency across the State, increased water use efficiency alone cannot solve California’s water problems.  We must grow our water infrastructure to meet California’s growing needs and make significant investments in building new reservoirs and expanding those we already have.”

KINGS COUNTY NATIVE

Valadao is a Hanford native. The family’s farming business includes two dairies and more than 1,000 acres of farmland in Kings County and western Tulare County on which alfalfa, corn and wheat as dairy feed stock are produced.  Valadao is serving on the House Appropriations Committee and the Agriculture, Interior, and Legislative Branch Subcommittees.

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