By Paige Gilligan, Risk Mitigators & Advisors
Based on Chinese theory, each of the energies (wood, fire, earth, metal, and water) share two fundamental relationships: generation and support. Without the balance between the two, things would fall apart quickly. In this context, generation represents a
relationship that nurtures and promotes growth. Support represents a relationship that restrains energy making things neither too weak nor too strong, growing at a balanced pace. The five elements are dynamic and interwoven.
Water is one of the five fundamental elements of nature. Because of this theory, it is no surprise to me that water is such a highly debated topic in California (and around the world). The world literally needs water to be in balance. Historically, water issues in California have caused agriculture, environmentalists, and communities to be at odds with each other. Each group looking out for their best interest and pushing political campaigns to meet the individual goals. As SGMA (Sustainable Groundwater Management Act) becomes a regular “coffee shop” topic, the importance of water is slowly being understood by the public. More people are asking their neighbors how they are being affected by the water restrictions. These discussions are beginning to cross all boundary lines (real and imagined).
Current news reports say that California is experiencing another drought. This event coupled with a pandemic, and a potential recall election for the Governor all lead to confusion, worry, and uncertainty amongst all groups of people. Farmers and producers are wondering if they are going to receive any of their surface water allocation. Environmentalists are saying that there will not be enough cold water for fish. Rural communities are worried that safe drinking water will not be available, and their wells will go dry again.
Now is the perfect time for us (ALL of us) to realize that water is a basic element, and we need to work together (support) to develop solutions to continue to make California a viable place (generation) to live, work, and play. We did not get into this situation in a few years, so people need to understand that we will not get out of it in a few years either. Because the elements strive for balance, a push from one side requires a pull from the other side. I believe that if the groups keep working at odds against each other with both sides pulling their own way, support is not achieved, and the resources are stretched too thin. Likewise, if all sides are pushing toward each other, the force is too strong to be contained and things explode.
For these reasons of generation and support, Risk Mitigators & Advisors takes the time to learn about each individual client. Understanding where they are in their business cycle, in their lives, and in their dreams. We believe these times are dynamic NOT difficult. Being open to new ideas, thoughts, and methods will allow us all to bring a supportive water solution to California.
My final thought this month – do not overreact to SGMA. The Act is important, but the answers are not going to happen overnight. It is important to address the present and plan for the future. Remember that a planned reduction in water allocation from current usage (whether it be 10 percent, 50 percent, or any other hypothetical number) over a 20-year period is easier to plan for than not knowing if you will be receiving a 60 percent allocation one year and a 5 percent allocation (like some growers this year) the next. Feel free to give us a call at 559-549-2850 or stop by our office at 2525 Alluvial Ave, Suite 151, Clovis, California and let Risk Mitigators & Advisors help keep your operation’s water issues in perspective.
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