BDCP Agencies Propose Modifications to MOA

To cultivate and ensure meaningful public involvement and transparency in the Bay Delta Conservation Planning process, state and federal agencies proposed a number of modifications to the BDCP Memorandum of Agreement today.

The proposed changes are a result of recent public comments on the MOA and are designed to address stakeholder concerns raised recently about the MOA language. According to the state Natural Resources Agency, today's action reconfirms the public's opportunity to participate in the development of the BDCP, the agencies' commitment to an aggresive schedule without trumping their commitment to scientific integrity, and that the process will be transparent, with all draft documents available to the public.

"I have personally reviewed the concerns raised about the previous draft of the MOA, and we have heard the public loud and clear," said Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar in a statement. "Today we are responding to these concerns by proposing changes that underscore our commitment that no special advantages have been or will be granted to any party in developing this plan for the future of the Bay Delta."

A summary of comments received, comprehensive response to those comments, and the proposed MOA amendments may be found on the BDCP website.

Read the federal Department of the Interior's news release, a statement by California Natural Resources Agency Secretary John Laird, and a letter of support signed by 11 members of the California Legislature.