California is facing a water crisis. The state has one of the most engineered and over-subscribed water systems in the world, meaning significantly more water is promised to users than is actually available. And climate change is making the swings between drought and deluge more severe and unpredictable. Over the last 50 years, shorebird numbers in North America have declined by 40% and this rapid decline continues. On the Pacific Flyway, CaliforniaÕs Central Valley is one of the two most important inland migration sites for millions of shorebirds and other water birds in the western hemisphere. A valley that was once a vast wetland complex providing habitat is now a sea of irrigated agriculture. Fortunately, some irrigated croplandsÑwhen managed appropriatelyÑcan and do provide vital flooded habitat for populations of birds and other wildlife. Yet, the potential value of these irrigated farmlands is far from optimal and is under increasing threat from land use change and drought driven by climate change. In addition, river ecosystems in the Central Valley have been severely altered, with seasonal flows dramatically altered from and no longer providing the conditions that salmon and other species depend on. In many rivers that are tributaries to the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers, seasonal river flows during the spring, summer, and fall are significantly less than natural flowsÑprimarily because of diversions for agriculture. As a result, the number of salmon, which are a vital part of this ecosystem, has collapsed in the Valley, with several distinct salmon populationsÑlike Central Valley spring-run Chinook SalmonÑon the brink of extinction. . Who is TNC and TNCÕs Principles of Corporate Engagement The Nature Conservancy is a global conservation organization dedicated to conserving the lands and waters on which all life depends. Guided by science, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world's toughest challenges so that nature and people can thrive together. We are tackling climate change, conserving lands, waters and oceans at unprecedented scale, and helping make cities more sustainable with ambitious 2030 goals. Working in more than 72 countries, we use a collaborative approach that engages local communities, governments, the private sector, and other partners. To learn more, visit www.nature.org. For more information on TNCÕs 2030 Goals, go here: https://tnc.box.com/s/bcuyuinrtbdbesovxy5fr51h22amr3tc TNCÕs Principles of Corporate Engagement All of TNCÕs corporate engagements must have conservation benefits with lasting, measurable outcomes, and a direct connection to our mission. Please review our Principles of Corporate Engagement, which all engagements must meet: https://www.nature.org/en-us/about-us/who-we-are/how-we-work/working-with-companies/corporate-principles/