Metropolitan Issues Statement on Passing of Senator Dianne Feinstein

Metropolitan Water District Chair Adán Ortega, Jr. and General Manager Adel Hagekhalil have issued the following statement on the death of Senator Dianne Feinstein:

"On behalf of the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, we are expressing our sorrow over the passing of U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein. Symbolizing our esteem and deep appreciation of Senator Feinstein, we immediately convened our facilities naming committee which today voted to recommend the renaming of our Diamond Valley Lake in her honor as the Dianne Feinstein Lake at Diamond Valley.

"Senator Feinstein was a true champion of water, conservation, and sustainability. She headlined the opening of Diamond Valley Lake and stood by Metropolitan and the people of Southern California through several rounds of negotiations on the Colorado River. Our general managers and board chairs over the decades cherished her for being honest and forthright as we began facing the realities of climate change also impacting our supplies from the Sacramento Bay-Delta.

"Throughout her distinguished career, Senator Feinstein worked tirelessly to address the complex and critical water challenges facing our state. She understood the delicate balance between meeting the water needs of our growing population and protecting the fragile ecosystems of our region and agriculture. Her leadership was instrumental in advancing legislation that aimed to secure a reliable water supply for California while promoting responsible stewardship of our natural resources. And her vision for a sustainable water future inspired us all to think long term and prioritize conservation efforts each and every day.

"Our thoughts and condolences go out to Senator Feinstein's family, friends, and colleagues. We will forever be grateful for her leadership, dedication, and passion for California's water and environmental issues. Senator Feinstein's legacy will continue to guide us as we work to protect and preserve our state's most precious resource."