Darcy Villere - Podcast Details

Shows

We Grow CaliforniaCatching Up with Darcy & DarcyDid you miss them? Darcy B. has literally been traveling the world, and Darcy V. has been planting acres and acres of tomatoes. They are finally back in the studio and are catching up on everything that happened while Darcy B. was globe-trotting including the Central Valley Project (Federal) and the State Water Project allocations, Metropolitan’s new General Manager (Deven Upadhayay), Metropolitans Climate Adaptation Master Plan and Business Model, another Canyon Lake Fish Kill, future guests, and more. Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the...2025-04-3038 min

We Grow CaliforniaThank you, Mr. MayorIt’s March and newly elected officials have settled into their seats. At the state level, one third of all legislators are new. Locally, that percentage could be higher or lower. Regardless, newly elected officials rarely have an understanding about California’s water complexities nor the importance of Agriculture and its unique challenges. To get a newly elected perspective, Darcy and Darcy welcome Canyon Lake Mayor, Mark Terry. Mayor Terry was appointed to City Council two years ago and then was elected to his first four-year term in November. The Mayor shares his perspective on the importance of wat...2025-03-1951 min

We Grow CaliforniaSarah Woolf - A Change MakerSarah Woolf, a California Ag and Water icon, joins Darcy and Darcy and discusses Water Wise - a water management company for farmers in the central San Joaquin Valley, the Change Coalition, the San Joaquin Blueprint, the San Joaquin Valley Water Collaborative Action Program, and family farming – just to name a few!Sarah shares her perspective on California water and agriculture, how it has changed, and where it may be going over the next decade or two. What was clear, was there is so much more to talk about! Darcy & Darcy can’t wait to have her back...2025-03-0529 min

We Grow CaliforniaWestlands Water Works HarderDarcy and Darcy welcome back Westlands Water District's Assistant General Manager, Jose Gutierrez and for the first time, welcome Kitty Campbell, Supervisor of Resources. Westlands has been doing some innovative groundwater sustainability efforts and in this episode, Jose and Kitty talk about their Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) Program. This program works with Westlands growers to use their existing wells and convert them to dual purpose, meaning they recharge the deep aquifer beneath Corcoran clay layer when surface water is available as well as pump when groundwater extraction is permitted. Growers receive groundwater credits for each acre foot of w...2025-02-2649 min

We Grow CaliforniaBrave New WorldVivian Welsh, Founder and CEO of Vivians.io, a firm that develops Artificial Intelligence (AI) solutions, joins Darcy and Darcy and discusses what AI is, how utilities or farmers use this technology, what guardrails (If any) are in place, and what’s been the biggest barrier to AI implementation. Vivian shares great success stories, answers tough questions, and provides wonderful tips for getting started. Young, old, or in-between, this is an episode you can’t miss. Join the conversation! To reach Vivian directly, visit her website www.vivians.io/ or email her at Vivian@vivians.io...2025-02-1943 min

We Grow CaliforniaChanging by the SecondIt’s finally February, and true-to-form, January has been the longest year! Los Angeles fires were and still are devastating. On the bright side, water, particularly, California Water, has been front and center. Darcy V. and Darcy B. discuss how the information is evolving, and in some cases, literally changing by the second! They also emphasize the importance of educating electeds at all levels on how California’s state, federal, and local water systems work, what they are actually capable of, (Please note that putting out a wildfire is not one of them), and what we need. (Spoile...2025-02-0726 min

We Grow CaliforniaIs your water safe to drink after a wildfire?With Los Angeles and the surrounding areas still ablaze, the media is capitalizing with headlines like Washington Post’s recent article, “L.A. fires may have brought cancer-causing chemicals into drinking water.” Causing further concern are the various public health water notices including Do Not Drink and Do Not Boil. Ultimately, people want to know, is their water safe to drink after a wildfire? What are local water systems doing to ensure the water is safe, and how are these efforts protecting public health? Darcy B. is solo this week and was extr...2025-01-2234 min

We Grow CaliforniaIt's Carry-Over SeasonFirst, Darcy and Darcy send their concern and sympathy for those impacted by the horrific southern California fires. We hope you're safe, and the fires are extinguished soon. To start 2025 off, Mitch Partovi, a water broker from The Water Agency, is back! Mitch joins Darcy and Darcy and discusses California’s current water supply, what activities are going on in California’s water market, and what might be expected. As our listeners have learned, the federal, or Central Valley Project, operates differently than the State Water Project. Farmers are deciding now whether to carry over their w...2025-01-1535 min

We Grow CaliforniaPost-Election Palate CleanserDarcy B. and Darcy V. thought you could use a little refresh from all the election advertising, conversation, and in some instances, drama. Just in time for the biggest food holiday of the year, Darcy V. and Darcy B. go over some fun Thanksgiving Dinner food facts. Darcy V. has been waiting to do this episode for over a year! The Darcys share where the most popular holiday food comes from, how much in total receipts each item generates, and a multitude of other fun foodie facts! You’ll be the hit of the party with this information! Spoiler alert...2024-11-2027 min

We Grow CaliforniaGreat ExpectationsThe November 2024 elections are over and a whole new class of elected water board directors are about to take their seats. Many of these individuals ran on the promise of lower water rates, improved water reliability, more transparency, etc. But what can they really deliver? Darcy and Darcy welcomed Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District’s (EVMWD) Board President Chance Edmonson into the studio to share his perspective of what it was like when he became a board member. Chance was appointed to the EVMWD Board in 2021 to fill a vacancy and then in 2022 ran for the seat and won. Chan...2024-11-0634 min

We Grow CaliforniaAnd the Golden Trophy Goes to....Johnny Amaral, Chief External Affairs Officer at Friant Water Authority, joins Darcy and Darcy in the studio this week for an enlightening conversation. Recently, Johnny moderated a panel that Darcy B. participated in and Darcy V. attended. This annual event was hosted by the Association of California Water Agencies, Regions 6 & 7. The panel focused on “successful” regulatory management strategies. As part of that panel discussion, Johnny shared that water agencies, irrigation districts, and water purveyors from all over the state have been negotiating themselves out of reliable water supply for over thirty years. This graph, known as the...2024-10-3045 min

We Grow CaliforniaIs it going to be wet or dry? Yes!It’s October 2024 and the new water year has begun! Chris White, Executive Director of the San Joaquin River Water Authority Exchange Contractors joins Darcy and Darcy in the studio and lets us know how the California 2023-2024 water year ended, what water storage levels are, and what the next water year may hold. The age old question is before us once again, “Will it be wet or dry?” Tune-in and see what Chris has to say!Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange...2024-10-2326 min

We Grow CaliforniaLeader of the Pack (Vroom! Vroom!)In the early 1900’s California water projects were Big and Bold. Today’s guest, Mehul Patel, Orange County Water District’s Executive Director of Operations, oversees a project that can be classified in that same category – the Groundwater Replenishment System or GWRS. The only reason urban water agencies are even talking about, let alone planning for, direct potable reuse is because of this project. Mehul joins Darcy and Darcy in the studio and shares the history of the project back to Water Factory 21, the courageous decisions two agencies had to make to move forward and make significant investments, and of course...2024-10-0848 min

We Grow CaliforniaDo You “Water Right?”Will Pruitt, CEO of Water Right, LLC, and Exchange Contractor PAC Board Member, joins Darcy and Darcy this week. Will shares the Why, Where, and When certain irrigation strategies are employed. Irrigation has come a long way in the last few decades and now, with the help of better technology, innovation, and grower expertise, not only are these systems more efficient, but they are lasting longer. There’s more to it than just turning on your “sprinklers!” That means a better Return on Investment which is an efficiency incentive. For our Urban listeners, you are about to...2024-09-2547 min

We Grow CaliforniaMaking Water Affordable IS a Public Health ServiceImagine this: you shut off 31% of your customers for non-payment and the United Nations shows up at your door. This is a true story and Darcy and Darcy were very curious to see how this played out. Join them as they welcome Matt Phillips, who leads the City of Detroit Water and Sewerage Department’s Customer Service Division as well as serves as the Department’s Chief of Staff. Matt shares how he was tasked with finding a way to collect the over $200 million (you read the right!) in outstanding receivables, making water and waste-water services affordable to Det...2024-09-1147 min

We Grow CaliforniaCollaboration was the best lesson I learnedThis week Dan Nelson retired Executive Director of the San Luis-Delta Mendota Water Authority (Authority) joins Darcy and Darcy. Dan shares the history of the Authority’s predecessor organization, the events that led to the Authority’s creation, key operation and water management milestones, and the best lesson he learned. The coolest part of the interview from Darcy B’s perspective was that Dan worked with Darcy V.’s grandfather, the water legend himself, C.W. “Bill” Jones Sr. who is known for bringing water deliveries to agriculture and for whom the Jones Pumping Plant is named. Dan shares what Bill Sr...2024-09-0544 min

We Grow CaliforniaCALL TO ACTION - FALL X2Darcy V is harvesting tomatoes so that means, Darcy B. is leading this discussion, and what a discussion it is! Darcy welcomes Geoffrey Vanden Heuvel, the Director of Regulatory and Economic Affairs for the Milk Producers Council, a California dairy farmer trade association. Geoff is currently the Vice-Chairman of the Water Blueprint for the San Joaquin Valley Board. Geoff joins Darcy B in the studio where they discuss the urgent Fall X 2 Action. The Fall X2 Action (Technically it addresses salinity intrusion in the Bay Delta), as currently mandated, results in significant water sup...2024-08-2835 min

We Grow CaliforniaThere’s water and then there’s everything elseThis week Ryan Jacobson, Chief Executive Officer of Fresno Farm Bureau joins Darcy and Darcy for an interesting conversation on what a Farm Bureau is, what it does, and how they work. Ryan discusses that over the last ten years, a lot of what he does can be summed up in these words, “There’s water ... and then there’s everything else.” Ryan shares how he serves a wide range of interests, needs, and communities. Water-speak, as we all know, is a challenge. Ryan also serves as President of Fresno Irrigation District, which gives him a definite advantage. Farm Bur...2024-08-2242 min

We Grow CaliforniaKing’s County Farm Bureau =1, State Water Board =0This week, Darcy B. is flying solo while Darcy V. is out of town. Left to her own devices, Darcy welcomed into the studio Dusty Ference, the Executive Director of the King’s County Farm Bureau. Recently, Dusty and the King’s County Farm Bureau made headlines when they successfully were issued a temporary restraining order against the State Water Resources Control Board. This order prevents the State Board from putting the Tulare Lake Groundwater Subbasin on SGMA Probation. The restraining order remains in effect until Tuesday, August 20, 2024, when the judge will consider issuing a temporary injunction. To put it in ba...2024-08-0840 min

We Grow CaliforniaWater Bond or Water Bust?It’s Darcy and Darcy this week and they have plenty to talk about. First, they share information about a Central Valley event hosted by The California Water Alliance (4th Annual Water Forum) that is being held on August 7th. This event was encouraging to both Darcys as it appears to be a non-partisan, forward thinking, solution focused event. Check it out for yourself here. What really got the conversation going was Darcy B’s sentiments on the current proposed “Water Bond.” Listed on this fall’s ballot as Proposition 4, it is entitled, “The Safe Drinking Water, W...2024-07-3138 min

We Grow CaliforniaFrom Showers to Flowers to Now, Pizza & Beer!For over a decade now, Direct Potable ReUse (DPR) has been referred to as “Showers to Flowers.” Darcy and Darcy welcome back Las Virgenes General Manager and President of Water ReUse California, Dave Pedersen to talk about DPR’s next level – Pizza & Beer! If you recall from our December 29th episode, Darcy V wanted to try the DPR Pale Ale Beer that a local microbrewery Lady Face Mountain crafted exclusively for Dave’s project. Dave got it to Darcy B., and she got it to the great Central Valley for Darcy’s enjoyment. Listen in to hear Darcy V...2024-07-2439 min

We Grow California“What the Heck is the Chevron Deference?” with Paul MinasianPaul Minasian, long-practicing California water rights attorney, is back! Paul joins Darcy and Darcy in the studio to explain the Supreme Court of the United States’ (SCOTUS)overturning of what was known as the Chevron doctrine. Darcy and Darcy ask Paul about the impacts this ruling may have on Federal (and State) Water Project Operations, water projects, timing impacts, and more. Spoiler Alert! The United States Constitution plays a key role moving forward! Imagine that! Listen in!Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Cont...2024-07-1744 min

We Grow CaliforniaAt Westlands, Growers Get It DoneAllison Febbo, General Manager of Westlands Water District joins Darcy and Darcy this week for a long-awaited recharge, culture change, and water supply reliability (or is that unreliable water supply ?!) conversation. Allison has been in water for over two decades and served a wide variety of leadership roles however has only been at the helm of Westlands for about a year. In that short of time she has gotten Westland's Groundwater Sustainability Plan approved, forged new partnerships (Including an historical one with Metropolitan), and worked with growers to recharge almost 400,000-acre-feet. That’s almost half the capacity of...2024-07-1040 min

We Grow CaliforniaSummer Fruit Salad & SunscreenIt’s Fourth of July week and it’s the perfect time for Darcy and Darcy to share the top produce grown in California and pretty much – you guessed it - your entire summer fruit salad is provided by your friendly California Farmer! And with California's Central Valley temperatures inching up past 110 for over a week, Darcy V shares his strategies on crop “sunscreen.” Darcy B discusses hazardous algae, another fun summer topic, and a special shout out to the farmer that sent Darcy B. her favorite cantaloupes just in time for America’s birthday party.Send us a text...2024-07-0331 min

We Grow CaliforniaSelf-Help Revitalizes Rural CommunitiesThis week Darcy and Darcy have some good news to share when they welcome Eddie Ocampo, Director of Community Sustainability with Self-Help Enterprises, a nationally recognized community development organization. Eddie and Self Help work with communities to build resiliency through housing, water reliability, waste-water services, and community development. They work collaboratively with other technical assistance organizations, funding entities, as well as state and federal agencies. Darcy and Darcy learn how Self-Help got started, and some of the projects Eddie is most proud of. They learned that when Central Valley California communities’ have big problems – like the well has run dry...2024-06-2636 min

We Grow CaliforniaA Water BlueprintJason Phillips, Chief Executive Officer of Friant Water Authority, and Water Blueprint for the San Joaquin Valley Blueprint Board Member joins Darcy and Darcy this week for an interesting and thought-provoking conversation. Jason covers what the Blueprint is, who is part of it, why it is needed, new partnerships, and top priorities. He also explains how the Blueprint works with the Central Valley’s Groundwater Sustainability Agencies. Darcy and Darcy learn why Temperance Flats is not a priority project and you will too. They also learn the sobering statistic of what an annual 2-4 million-acre-foot water deficit looks like. Spoi...2024-06-1254 min

We Grow CaliforniaThe Wonders of RechargeSteve Chedester, Director of Policy and Programs at the San Joaquin River Exchange Contractors Water Authority (Exchange Contractors) is back for part two of local project investments, the Orestimba Creek Recharge and Recovery Project – say that three times fast! Steve shares information about a groundwater recharge project in the Del Puerto Water District’s service area. This project covers approximately 80 acres and has the capacity to store over 20,000-acre-feet of water, or for our urban listeners, that’s enough water for 60,000 people for one year! Located south of the Delta, and northeast of the San Luis Reservoir, this recharge project c...2024-06-0530 min

We Grow CaliforniaSame Infrastructure, New UsesDarcy and Darcy welcome back Steve Chedester, Director of Policy and Programs at the San Joaquin River Exchange Contractors Water Authority (Exchange Contractors). Steve shares some innovative infrastructure news that for us Water Nerds, is super exciting! The Exchange Contractors partnered with the San Luis Water District and the Grasslands Water District for the Los Banos Creek Detention Dam Reservoir Re-Regulation Project. (That was a mouthful!) This reservoir was once only used for the Central Valley Project Flood Control and now, through strategic improvements and re-purposing of existing infrastructure, yields new water reliability for the partners. The Project was m...2024-05-3031 min

We Grow CaliforniaMoving at the Speed of TrustDarcy and Darcy are discussing some pretty incredible milestone events this week. First, the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California entered into two Memorandums of Understanding. The first with Friant Water Authority and Westland Water District and the second with the San Joaquin Valley Blueprint. These non-binding agreements open the door to explore mutual beneficial groundwater storage projects as well as other water reliability efforts. Urban and Ag are working together to solve big issues, and some said it would never happen! It all starts with trust. Speaking of trust, Darcy B also shares some resul...2024-05-2238 min

We Grow CaliforniaIs Safe Drinking Water Now Unaffordable?Darcy and Darcy are back in the studio this week and tackle water affordability. With the USEPA finalizing the PFOS Maximum Contaminant Level at 4 PPT (Parts per trillion), California setting the Hexavalent Chromium 6) level at 10 PPB (Parts per billion), lead service line replacement costs, lower Arsenic standards coming, revised Lithium standards on the horizon, and microplastics regulations looming, how will Californians and Americans afford safe drinking water? Darcy B. shares the impacts of the costs of these treatment options including capital investments, operations, and disposal and what that might look like on your monthly water bill; let’s just sa...2024-04-2435 min

We Grow CaliforniaMoonshotDarcy and Darcy welcome George Hawkins, founder and CEO of Moonshot Missions, a non-profit organization dedicated to clean and healthy water and waterways in underserved communities. Prior to starting Moonshot Missions, George was the General Manager of DC Water, where he served for eleven years, including several as a Board member. Darcy and Darcy discuss how Moonshot helps disadvantaged communities and tribal water and wastewater systems across the country, how they are funded, what makes them different, and how they might be able to help your community. Join the conversation!Send...2024-04-0345 min

We Grow CaliforniaIt’s a Grape Day in Temecula!This week JD Harkey, CEO of Drake Enterprises and Vice President of Rancho California Water District, joins Darcy and Darcy. JD farms and manages over 450 acres of wine grapes, avocados, citrus, and olives in the greater Temecula Valley. Elected to the Rancho California Water District Board of Directors in November of 2022, JD shares his challenges regarding the cost of water to Southern California AG and the direct impacts rising rates have on local family farmers, the community, as well as to the $2 billion local economy. Darcy V. and JD compare farming notes, they all join in some common water...2024-03-2736 min

We Grow California"How Ya' Doin"?Darcy and Darcy are all alone this week discussing everything water and AG. From potential So Cal Water rate increases, Climate Adaptation Management Planning, tomato planting, and pricing, to allocations. These two have been busy this last week, joining the conversations locally and at the state level, farming, and doing what they do. If you make this one to the end, the Darcy’s have instructions on how to get a very special “gold star.” Join the conversation!Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchang...2024-03-2136 min

We Grow CaliforniaSenator Anna Caballero Talks Water & Ag!Senator Anna Caballero, who represents Senate District 14 which includes Merced, Madera, and Fresno Counties, joins Darcy and Darcy this week. The Senator discusses Darcy B’s favorite bill this session, SB 366, rural California, water infrastructure, and the importance of Agriculture is to California’s economy, and to National Security. The Senator shares some of her frustration at the Capitol, the benefits of the Rural Caucus, getting out into her district, and making a difference. Join the conversation!Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exch...2024-03-1330 min

We Grow CaliforniaSurvey Says! Results of a recent CA Voter Poll!Justin Wallin, a recognized expert in accurately measuring public opinion, forecasting outcomes, and identifying the most effective ways to influence thoughts and behaviors joins Darcy and Darcy this week and discusses a recent California voter poll. Justin covers questions he asked in the field including ocean desalination and water recycling investments, the importance of food to National Security, and more. There were some surprises and confirmation of some things we hoped were the case. Join the conversation!Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and...2024-03-0637 min

We Grow CaliforniaCalifornia’s Legislature – Ready? Vote! Read!Dominic Dimare, Partner from ARC Strategies, a full-service legislative advocacy firm, joins Darcy and Darcy in the studio this week. The discussion includes California’s legislature, how bills become laws, the enormous amount of legislation proposed, ongoing challenges, and an update on Darcy B’s favorite piece of legislation this session, Senator Anna Caballero’s SB 366. Darcy and Darcy are just as surprised at some of the answers as you might be. Join the conversation!Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PA...2024-02-2135 min

We Grow CaliforniaCalifornia's Water MarketsMitch Partovi, a water broker from The Water Agency, joins Darcy and Darcy in the studio and discusses California’s Water market, how it works, the regulatory oversight, the benefits, and related value. Darcy and Darcy ask some tough questions including monetization of water, the growing groundwater market considering the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act, and who benefits. Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.2024-02-1438 min

We Grow CaliforniaAll Aboard the Pineapple Express!It’s February 2024 and the atmospheric rivers are upon us! Chris White, Executive Director of the San Joaquin River Water Authority Exchange Contractors joins Darcy and Darcy in the studio and discusses the current atmospheric river conditions, California reservoir management, and a preview of the ECPAC member meeting presentation on February 28th. To reserve your spot at the meeting, visit us online. Reservations are required. We Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate comm...2024-02-0727 min

We Grow CaliforniaIt's All A-BuzzBees play a critical role in California Agriculture. Gene Brandi, longtime west coast beekeeper, industry spokesman, ambassador, subject matter expert, advocate, and industry leader joins Darcy and Darcy in the studio for a “buzzworthy” conversation. They discuss the impacts water cutbacks have had on bees and the bee profession, including fallowing and land retirement. Gene shares the work California beekeepers have done with farmers and the Almond Board to keep bees safe and healthy, and what we can do in our own backyards. Gene even gave us a link to get some bee-friendly seeds to plant, for free! For your seed...2024-01-2443 min

We Grow CaliforniaRecovering Our Most Precious ResourceLas Virgenes General Manager and President of Water ReUse California, Dave Pedersen joins Darcy and Darcy for a frank and raw discussion on direct potable reuse (DPR). In late December, the State Water Resources Control Board approved DPR regulations; these regs will govern water agencies looking to use their wastewater as a new drinking water resource. DPR takes advanced recycled water and treats it even further through technology, innovation, and safeguards to make it potable, or drinkable. The Darcy’s weren’t on the same page, believe it or not, and the discussion includes asking Dave some tough questions on sa...2024-01-1042 min

We Grow CaliforniaMore than Healthy Rivers for Sure!State Water Project (SWP) Contractors’ General Manager Jennifer Pierre joins Darcy and Darcy this week and Boy! Did they have a lot to talk about! Jennifer discusses the Governor’s proposal for the Water Quality Control Plan update, the State Water Resources Control Board’s (SWRCB) staff proposal which would have huge water costs across the state (2-Million-Acre-Feet of water lost to cities and farms) why it’s so important that the (SWRCB) adopts the Voluntary Agreements (dubbed Healthy Rivers and Landscapes). Jennifer lets them know why support is critical right now, the benefits of having everyone at the table, and...2023-12-1332 min

We Grow CaliforniaAssembly Ag Committee Chair Esmeralda SoriaAssembly Ag Committee Chair Esmeralda Sora joins Darcy and Darcy this week and shares her own frustrations with getting things done, the importance of water and ag to California and the nation, how she is working to bridge the gap between urban and ag policy makers, and her hopes on how we can and must do better. Let us know what you’re thinking! You can provide your comments, suggestions, questions, or recommendations at https://www.ecwaterpac.com/podcast/. Thanks for tuning in!Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is...2023-11-2935 min

We Grow CaliforniaDam! They did it!Cannon Michael, the Chairman of the San Luis Delta and Mendota Water Authority, joins Darcy and Darcy this week and shares how they were able to secure the raising of the San Luis Reservoir Dam by 10 feet - creating an additional 130,000 acre feet of storage. Listen in and find out how they were able to pull this off, the estimated cost, their project partners, and the always challenging and usually disheartening, California capital improvement project schedule timeline.Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and...2023-11-0932 min

We Grow CaliforniaJust the Tip of the IcebergDarcy and Darcy welcome Paul and Jackson Minasian of Minasian Law Firm. Founded in 1841 by Paul’s grandparents, the Minasian Law Firm, located in Oroville California, specializes in California Water Rights. Paul walks Darcy and Darcy through California water rights history, the most basic types of water rights ,and provides a great foundation for our hosts and listeners. What Darcy and Darcy know now for sure, this is just the tip of the iceberg!Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and E...2023-11-0139 min

We Grow CaliforniaDarcy & Darcy Out in the WildThis week, Darcy and Darcy were out in the wild! Darcy B shares her adventures on the Drought or Missed Opportunities Panel at the 15th Orange County Water Summit, where her name was mentioned as California’s Water Czar candidate! Not to be outdone, Darcy V. shares his experience at the Association of California Water Agencies Region 6 & 7’s San Joaquin Valley Forum on Groundwater. With the Tulare Groundwater Basin about to experience State Water Resource Control Board Probation Hearings, the information Darcy V. shares is eye-opening, and the conversation it sparks is worth tuning in for! 2023-10-1833 min

We Grow CaliforniaHappy New Year! Water year that is!This week, Darcy and Darcy celebrate the new water year by welcoming back Chris White, Executive Director of the San Joaquin River Exchange Contractors Authority. Chris is an engineer, water manager, and exceptional historian. Darcy & Darcy asked Chris how we did in water-year 2022-2023, what storage looks like, what we could have done better, and how 2023-24 looks. When they asked Chris if it was going to be wet or dry, he said... Listen in and find out!Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Ex...2023-10-1135 min

We Grow CaliforniaWe Call Fowl!This week, Darcy and Darcy welcome Ric Ortega, General Manager of Grasslands Water District. Grasslands is dedicated to the protection and delivery of water to the Grassland Resource Conservation District’s 75,000 acres of private, state, and federal wildlife refuges. Habitat served by the district is recognized as a Wetland of International Importance under the RAMSAR Convention on Wetlands and is also designated as a Wetland of Global Significance, a critical component to the Western Hemispheric Shorebird Reserve Network. To learn more about the amazing ecosystem and environmental work they do, visit https://gwdwater.org/gwd/...2023-10-0430 min

We Grow CaliforniaFood Grows Where Water FlowsDarcy and Darcy welcome Mike Wade, Executive Director of the California Food and Water Coalition (CFCW). CFWC is a non-profit, educational organization formed in 1989, providing fact-based information on farm water issues to the public. The organization works to help consumers, elected representatives, government officials and the media connect California water and our food supply. Mike shares with Darcy and Darcy the work CFCW has done, what they are working on now, the importance of social media influencers, and how things have changed.Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the...2023-09-2027 min

We Grow CaliforniaDo Californians really want conservation as a way of life?Darcy and Darcy are on opposite sides once again! This time they take their respective stands on the State Water Resources Control Board’s staff recommendations to make Conservation a Way of Life for all Californians, regardless of water supply or availability. This new effort will put all Urban water agencies on a budget determined by SWRCB staff. Darcy and Darcy discuss whether these efforts make a difference, if they detract from the water infrastructure investments that need to be made, and if this is how California’s economy will not only survive but thrive.2023-09-1326 min

We Grow CaliforniaCongressman John DuarteCalifornia can do better! As promised, Darcy and Darcy are very excited to welcome into the studio, Congressman John Duarte. Congressman Duarte is serving his first term in the 118th Congress as Representative of California’s 13th District. Congressman Duarte shares his thoughts on California water management – or lack thereof, the federal Water for California Bill, and the importance – both to Ag and Urban residents – of the Farm Bill. Listen in and hear his perspective on these very important issues.Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exch...2023-08-3024 min

We Grow CaliforniaUnfunded mandates even for fish! Darcy and Darcy welcome Steve Chedester, the Director of Policy and Programs for the San Joaquin River Exchange Contractors Water Authority into the We Grow California Studios. Steve has been with the Exchange Contractors for 28 years and provides a great background and status report on the San Joaquin River Restoration Project. After litigation, settlements, and decades of planning, this project is not even at the starting line. Tune in and learn why.Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Co...2023-08-2328 min

We Grow CaliforniaBack from the Sacramento BattlegroundsDarcy and Darcy welcome California State Senator Kelly Seyarto, who represents the 32nd District. Last year, Senator Seyarto toured the Central Valley, met with farmers, and learned about their operations, challenges, and innovation. Darcy and Darcy find out how that trip changed his ag and water policy perspectives, if at all, and hear firsthand about the Sacramento battleground.Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.2023-08-1629 min

We Grow CaliforniaPFASWhat the heck is it and where did it come from? – For quite some time Darcy B has brought up PFAS on a few different episodes. Darcy V wanted to learn more, so he takes the lead and interviews Darcy B on the PFAS family, its concentration in everyday items, its impact, the cost, and why it is important.Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.2023-08-0926 min

We Grow CaliforniaWe’re back!Lots has happened over the last few months, including feedback from you! Darcy and Darcy are back in the studio answering your questions and discussing your comments. Tune-in and see what these two have been up to and what they have to say. Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.2023-08-0224 min

We Grow CaliforniaAmerica Loves Tomatoes!In this episode, Mike Montna, the Tomato Growers Association’s (CTGA) President and Chief Executive Officer joins Darcy and Darcy. Formed in 1947, the CTGA is involved in every phase of the state’s processing tomato industry. Mike shares some insight on tomato products, production, water supply impacts on tomato-growing families, and what this year’s production might look like. If you love tomatoes, you will love Mike! Listen in!Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any ca...2023-04-0827 min

We Grow CaliforniaInnovation at Ingomar Packing CompanyDarcy and Darcy welcome Greg Pruett, Ingomar Packing company’s ’s Sales and Energy Manager. Ingomar and piloted a condensate water capture project. Working with Botanica Water Technologies, Ingomar’s pilot program produced enough drinking water for 34 California households. Listen in and learn more about this innovative program and its potential! Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.2023-03-1525 min

We Grow CaliforniaA Brave New Future?Join Darcy and Darcy as they welcome Metropolitan Water District of Southern California’s new Chairman of the Board, Adán Ortega. Serving as the first Latino Chairman, the first Chairman representing the City of San Fernando, and the first former Metropolitan Water District employee to serve as Chairman, it appears Adán has been preparing for this role his entire life. With a once divided board, historical water supply challenges, and portions of Metropolitan’s service area growing, listen in and hear what Adán has planned, his priorities, and what Metropolitan’s brave new future looks like.Send u...2023-03-0827 min

We Grow CaliforniaDarcy and DarcyBelieve it or not! Instead of Darcy versus Darcy, or DvD, in this We Grow California episode, “The Darcys” are on the same side. Darcy and Darcy discuss the land fallowing benefits including incentives, community impacts, and the bottom line. If you farm, eat, or are concerned about California AG, fallowing is part of today’s water management conversation. The questions that need to be answered are: when is it appropriate, where, how many acres, for how long, and for how much? Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange...2023-02-2227 min

We Grow CaliforniaNo apologies for being good at what we do!For decades now, Almond Growers have been labeled California’s “bad guys.” Meet Aubrey Bettencourt, President, and CEO of the Almond Alliance of California. In just over a year, Aubrey has successfully addressed supply chain challenges, land fallowing options, and more. Listen in as Darcy and Darcy welcome Aubrey into the studio.Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.2023-02-1527 min

We Grow CaliforniaFarm Management’s Successful River Restoration EffortsEnvironmental restoration is a hot topic, especially in dry years. Significant investments have been earmarked for these types of projects, however, what are the metrics of success? Julie Rentner, President of River Partners, a non-profit that restores rivers through farm management, shares with us their unique approach, their successes, and how they are duplicating these efforts throughout the state. Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.2023-02-0823 min

We Grow CaliforniaWestlands Water District – Facts not FictionWestlands Water District is the largest agricultural water district in the country. We were fortunate enough to spend some time with Jose Gutierrez, their newly announced Interim General Manager. Jose provides a great overview of Westlands water supply portfolio, water rights, and the agency in general. Jose discusses Westland’s water supply challenges over the last several years, the impact those reduced supplies has had on their farmers, and on their communities. Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and...2023-02-0128 min

We Grow CaliforniaWhen it rains it pours....or does it?It’s January 2023, and California is enjoying record snowpack and rain. So, what’s the Exchange Contractor’s water supply forecast? Join us as we welcome Chris White, Executive Director for the Exchange Contractors. He’s back to discuss how the 2022 water year went and offers a 2023 water preview. Chris will also be the featured speaker at the next Exchange Contractors Political Action Committee meeting on February 28th. This is a great preview of what he is going to cover.Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC...2023-01-2625 min

We Grow CaliforniaDarcy vs Darcy – Sustainable Groundwater Management Act, Yeah or Nay?It’s been over ten years since the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) passed. Now is the time when the rubber meets the road, and Groundwater Sustainability Plans are currently being implemented. Join Darcy Villere and Darcy Burke as they discuss the best and worst of SGMA. If you have questions or comments, we’d love to hear from you. Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.2022-11-0919 min

We Grow CaliforniaGreg Thomas – It’s Time to Solve the Water Crisis Once and For AllCalifornia drought seems to be a normal situation when it quite frankly is an overall water management (or mismanagement) issue. Water managers, engineers, and subject matter experts are no longer waiting for the State and have formed “Solve the Water Crisis.” Join Greg Thomas, Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District’s General Manager, and a key part of “Solve the Water Crisis,” as we discuss their efforts, how you can participate, and what’s next.Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not...2022-11-0222 min

We Grow CaliforniaHow low can you go?Mark Nakata is a fourth-generation farmer and co-founder of the California United Water Association. As part of the Madera area’s Groundwater Sustainability Plan, growers have been allocated 28” of water per acre, begging the question: how low can you really go and grow food? Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.2022-10-2627 min

We Grow CaliforniaThe Governor’s Water Plan – A path forward or plan to nowhere?Join us as Assemblyman Adam Gray, representing the 21st Assembly District, weighs in on the Governor’s Water Plan. We also discuss Gray’s fight to defeat the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act, his water efforts in Sacramento, his opinion on what needs to happen now, and how Washington can help. Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.2022-10-1925 min

We Grow CaliforniaIs having a lawn wasting water?Southern California water agencies have been paying residents and businesses up to $3 a square foot to take out their lawn. With urban water users account for 10% of the state’s total water consumption, is having a lawn wasting water? Are their impacts including recharge and heat that should be considered as well? Listen in as co-hosts Darcy Villere and Darcy Burke debate both sides. Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or ca...2022-09-2121 min

We Grow CaliforniaDoheny Ocean Desalination Project – is it time yet?In Orange County California, there is an ocean desalination project that uses slant-well technology, that is environmentally sensitive and works. So why has it taken twenty years to move it forward? Is this the right time for the Doheny Ocean Desalination Project to finally move forward? Listen in as we welcome Rick Shintaku, General Manager of South Coast Water District as he provides an overview of the project, timeline, hurdles, and upcoming milestones. Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors Sta...2022-09-1423 min

We Grow CaliforniaDoing More with Nothing? Featuring Edward RingListen in as We Grow California welcomes co-founder, contributing editor and senior fellow with the California Policy Center, Ed Ring. Ed is a senior fellow with the Center for American Greatness, and a regular contributor to the California Globe. His work has also appeared in the Los Angeles Times, the Wall Street Journal, the Economist, Forbes, and other media outlets. Ring’s undergraduate degree is in Political Science from UC Davis, and he has an MBA in Finance from USC. He is the Chairman of the More Water Now initiative and author of 15-part series featured in the California Glo...2022-09-0724 min

We Grow CaliforniaDarcy Vs Darcy round 1Water rights and the California’s recent budget allocation to purchase water rights in strategic areas of the state that the State Water Resources Control Board has deemed important is extremely controversial. Listen in as co-hosts Darcy Villere and Darcy Burke debate both sides. Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.2022-08-3126 min

We Grow CaliforniaJoe Del BosqueWe Grow California welcomes Joe Del Bosque. Joe is a former California Water Commissioner, member of the Latino Water Coalition, 2nd generation California farmer, and has been featured on the media channels across the globe including the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, etc. Mainstream and social media fans can’t get enough of Joe and follow not only his cantaloupes but his love of California farming. Joe shares with us his thoughts on this drought, what has changed since the Fight for Water march over a decade ago, and how we can assure water reliability.Send us a...2022-08-2425 min

We Grow CaliforniaFore-Sites or Hind-Sites?Sites Reservoir Project has been on the drawing board since the 1950’s. Over the last decade or so it has gone through numerous design changes, partnerships, as well as cost and benefit analysis. Fritz Durst from Reclamation District 108 serves as Chairman of the Sites Project Authority. Fritz shares with us how the project got to where it is today, where it is in the planning process, and what, if anything, is next.Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is no...2022-08-1824 min

We Grow CaliforniaWilliam (Bill) JonesWe Grow California welcomes former California State Assemblymember, former California Secretary of State, and third-generation family farmer into the studio, William (Bill) Jones. Bill shares his water reliability while in the legislature, what his observations are now of current legislative efforts, where he gets his news and information, and his insights on water, agriculture, and today’s farming challenges. Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.2022-06-2926 min

We Grow CaliforniaCannon MichaelWe Grow California welcomes Cannon Michael, sixth generation family farmer, innovator, agriculturist, advocate, and ag advocate into the studio. Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.2022-06-0329 min

We Grow CaliforniaChris WhiteListen in as we welcome Chris White into the studio for some Exchange Contractors history and current water supply conversation. Chris is the Executive Director of the San Joaquin River Exchange Contractors Authority, engineer, water manager, and exceptional historian. Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.2022-06-0317 min

We Grow CaliforniaWhy a Podcast The Exchange Contractors Political Action Committee (ECPAC) produces We Grow California to engage Californians, policy makers, and influencers on the importance of water reliability, ag, food security, and related policies/regulations. Send us a textWe Grow California Podcast is paid for by the Exchange Contractors Federal PAC and Exchange Contractors State PAC and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee.2022-06-0319 min