A farmer's heartfelt plea for the survival of small family farms in California's San Joaquin Valley took center stage at the State Water Resources Control Board meeting on June 3, 2025. Speaking passionately, the farmer expressed deep concerns over the impending impacts of the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA), warning that its full implementation could decimate the agricultural community.

With California's agricultural sales exceeding $59 billion annually, the farmer highlighted the critical role of small family farms, which make up 79% of the state's farms. "These farms are the backbone of our food supply," she stated, emphasizing that many operate with minimal staff and face razor-thin profit margins amid rising costs for utilities and water.

The farmer criticized the current water management policies, noting that while the state could capture and deliver 100% of water to contractors, outdated regulations hinder this process. She pointed out that 12 million acres of freshwater have already been rendered unusable due to saltwater intrusion, a situation exacerbated by policies that prioritize environmental recovery over agricultural needs.

"Farmers are not the problem," she asserted, calling for a collaborative approach between state and federal agencies to revise regulations that negatively impact farming. She warned that if family farms go bankrupt, the nation could face food shortages, relying on imports during times of crisis.

The meeting also featured comments from water management professionals who echoed the need for practical solutions to address groundwater depletion and subsidence issues. John Davids, representing local groundwater sustainability agencies, praised the board's efforts to find common ground with local stakeholders, while Stephanie Anagonson from Madera County shared insights on the challenges faced in implementing water allocation resolutions.

As the meeting concluded, the urgency of the farmer's message resonated: the future of California's agriculture hangs in the balance, and immediate action is needed to ensure the survival of family farms and the food security they provide.