The Public Policy Institute of California (PPIC) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan think tank. PPIC is dedicated to informing and improving public policy in California through independent, objective, nonpartisan research.

Additionally, the PPIC Water Policy Center provides thoughtful research and discussion on innovative water management solutions that support a healthy economy, environment, and society—now and for future generations.

Allocating California’s Water: Directions for Reform

This 2015 report summarizes challenges and suggests reforms to strengthen the state’s ability to weather droughts and shifting economic demands for water, while maintaining the existing seniority of water rights.

California’s Water: The Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta

This 2015 publication is part of a briefing package that highlights the state’s most pressing water management issues in nine key areas

California’s Latest Drought

This 2015 fact sheet focuses on the current drought’s impacts.

Costs of Ecosystem Management Actions for the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta

This 2013 report summarizes the results of a wide-ranging study of cost-effective ways to improve the health of the Delta ecosystem.

Stress Relief: Prescriptions for a Healthier Delta Ecosystem

This 2013 report summarizes the results of a wide-ranging study of cost-effective ways to improve the health of the Delta ecosystem.

Where the Wild Things Aren’t: Making the Delta a Better Place for Native Species

This 2012 report proposes a strategy for realistically achieving co-equal goals of water supply reliability and ecosystem protection in the Delta.

Water and the California Economy

This 2012 report, examines the need to address threats to California’s water system, in order for the economy to grow and prosper despite droughts and water shortages caused by a changing climate.

Managing California’s Water: From Conflict to Reconciliation

This 2011 report examines the state’s need to consider a set of wide-ranging reforms—for the benefit of the economy and the environment.

California Water Myths

This 2009 report tackles common water myths and sets the stage for a more informed conversation about California water.

Comparing Futures for the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta

This 2009 report concludes that building an alternative conveyance system to carry water around the Delta is the most promising way to balance two critical policy goals: reviving a threatened ecosystem and ensuring a reliable, high-quality water supply for California.

Envisioning Futures for the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta

This 2007 report provides a comprehensive, scientifically up-to-date analysis and outlines several alternative management strategies for the Delta.