The Drought as a Human Rights Issue

Not only is this drought having an environmental impact, but many Californian's believe that this is a Human rights issue. The State of California passed into law in 2013 a bill that declares safe and affordable drinking water as a human right and guarantees it to its citizens. Unfortunately, the diminishing water supply has meant that Californians have needed to cut back their water consumption. However, quite notably,  California's almond farmers and cattle ranchers have not had to cut their water consumption. It take a gallon of water to produce a single almond and 106 gallons to produce a pound of beef. Agriculture accounts for more than 80% of the water consumption in the State. As less and less rain falls on California and its agricultural industry fails to reduce its consumption, many feel that it is a violation of their right to safe and clean drinking water as their water supply is being preempted in favor of water for agricultural purposes.