California Water Efficiency Partnership’s 9th annual Peer to Peer 2025 conference will be held on Wednesday and Thursday, May 28 and 29, in Buena Park at the Knott’s Berry Farm Hotel. This year’s event, designed to spark ideas and strengthen connections, features two full days of learning, sharing, and problem-solving. From hands-on trainings and data deep dives to lively peer exchanges, Peer to Peer offers an exceptional opportunity for water efficiency professionals across the state to exchange ideas and experiences. The event program lists speakers, presentations, breakout sessions, and options tours. Visit the Peer to Peer 2025 webpage for registration information.

A new economic analysis by the University of California, Davis, warns of a shrinking water supply — up to 9 million acre-feet per year — that could result in economic losses in California totaling between $3.4 and $14.5 billion per year. The report, Inaction’s Economic Cost for California’s Water Supply, builds on prior research showing that California’s total water supply is on track to shrink by 12 to 25% by 2050. Although conservation efforts remain vital, the research indicates these efforts alone are insufficient to address the projected water deficit and suggests that the State further invest in stormwater capture, water recycling, desalination, and storage and conveyance infrastructure.

Sustainable Conservation shares news of a new guidance document aimed at helping growers harness the many benefits of cool-season cover crops while reducing water use. Created by Community Alliance with Family Farmers’ Ecological Farming team and Sustainable Conservation with contributions from University of California, Davis, Agriculture and Natural Resources, and other partners, Cover Cropping in California’s Water Scarce Environments outlines practical management considerations with water scarcity in mind. Grounded by grower feedback and current research, the guide delves into drought-tolerant cover crop species and cover crop water dynamics and offers considerations about planting, maintenance, and cover crop termination with a water-wise approach to farming. Read more about the document in Sustainable Conservation’s press release and download the document from their website. 

Mark your calendars for October 21–23 to attend the 2025 California Economic Summit. Produced by California Forward, in collaboration with the California Stewardship Network, this year’s event will be held at the Adventist Health Arena in Stockton. The summit gathers leaders from across the state to support economic advancement strategies focused on the growth and stewardship of California’s valuable communities, land, and resources. For details, see the event flier. Registration information for the 2025 Summit in Stockton will be announced in the summer and through the California Forward newsletter.

The Western Regional Partnership (WRP) monthly newsletter offers many resources, funding opportunities, policy changes, updates in key personnel, and activities relevant to the WRP Region. The recent April issue offers information on the WRP Tribal Engagement Committee and extends an invitation to all interested in joining the next online committee meeting, Friday, May 30, at 10 a.m. Registration is required. DWR participates in the WRP Water Security working group. Visit the WRP website to learn more about the partnership and to download their most-recent newsletter.