Overhead view of Sacramento

Rep. Matsui Lands Major Victory in Farm Bill

October 4, 2017
Press Release


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wed., May 14, 2008


Congresswoman Doris Matsui Lands Major Victory In the Farm Bill

Today, Rep. Doris Matsui (CA-5) landed an astounding victory for the citizens of the Sacramento region. After more than a year of meeting with interested parties and working with her colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives, Matsui was successful in establishing national priority status for the Sacramento River Watershed in this year's much-anticipated Farm Bill.

The Watershed is designated as a national priority region under the Agricultural Water Enhancement Program, a new program designed to help achieve water quality goals and address water quantity concerns. The Sacramento River Watershed, along with six other regions, will receive priority status to secure part of the dedicated $280 million.

andquot;At this moment, we have the unique opportunity to shape the land and water preservation programs from the ground up. This designation, included in such a landmark piece of legislation, is a shining example of the developments that can happen when the federal government partners with local representatives. I look forward to working side-by-side with local representatives to move forward with conservation efforts in the Watershed region,andquot; said Matsui.

The National Resources Conservation Service programs serve a number of purposes crucial to conservation efforts, including helping people to reduce soil erosion, enhance water supplies, improve water quality, and increase wildlife habitat. By enhancing natural resources, these programs help sustain agricultural productivity and environmental quality. They strive to support continued economic development, recreation and scenic beauty.

andquot;With this important designation, we will truly be able to usher in a time of progress in the Watershed area. In the Sacramento Watershed, the farmers are the stewards of the land, and I am intent on forming a coalition of appropriate stakeholders. We are currently taking the next steps to develop this coalition, and I look forward to building upon this first, crucial step,andquot; said Matsui.

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