Congressman Josh Harder | Official U.S. House headshot
Congressman Josh Harder | Official U.S. House headshot
STOCKTON – Representative Josh Harder (CA-9) just introduced a bill to address the flood risk created by melting overflowing snowpack. The Flood Prevention and Snowpack Management Act would require a task force to be assembled the day after California’s snowpack reaches 150% of the normal level. With California experiencing record-breaking levels of rain and snow this year and a heat wave approaching, the Central Valley is at risk for severe flooding.
“San Joaquin families are still dealing with flood damage from the storms and heavy rain earlier this year, and now we’re facing the same risk again – this time, from melting snowpack,” said Rep. Harder. “The Central Valley is extremely vulnerable to flooding. After so much drought, we all appreciate how valuable water is, but we need solutions to make sure the water is being stored and going to good use – not filling up people’s living rooms. My bill will help us combat flood risks and speed up water storage projects, but as the temperature rises and the overflowing snowpack melts, we need to be ready.”
Rep. Harder’s bill would require the task force to take action within 90 days – specifically, the task force would be required to:
- Examine the risks posed by the snowpack
- Identify actions to mitigate flood risks
- Expedite water storage projects
Rep. Harder’s flood mitigation efforts to protect people, crops, and wildlife come at a critical moment as California’s snowpack has set records this year. According to a recent annual risk assessment, 92% of properties and 97% of commercial buildings in the City of Stockton are at risk during a flood. Melting snowpack could have catastrophic effects in the Central Valley and Rep. Harder’s bill aims to reduce those risks.
Original source can be found here
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