Why Water Rights Are the Lifeblood of the Eastern Sierra
BISHOP, CA -
10/11/2025
Water is the heartbeat of our Eastern Sierra communities, from the ranches of the Owens Valley to the small businesses in Bishop and Mammoth Lakes. For generations, our families have relied on the Sierra’s streams and aquifers to sustain agriculture, livelihoods, and our way of life. But today, heavy-handed state regulations and progressive groups pushing restrictive policies—like those from outfits similar to Eastern Sierra Action—threaten our ability to manage our water locally.
At Sierra Freedom Alliance, we believe water rights belong to the people who live here, not distant bureaucrats or urban interests siphoning our resources. The history of water in our region tells a story of resilience. The Owens Valley’s water battles, dating back to the early 1900s, remind us what’s at stake when outsiders control our resources. Today, policies disguised as “conservation” often prioritize corporate or environmentalist agendas over local needs, leaving ranchers high and dry. We’re here to push back—supporting fair agreements, transparent water boards, and solutions that keep our communities thriving.
Want to make a difference? Stay tuned to our website for updates on local water board meetings, like those of the Bishop Creek Water Association, where your voice can shape policies. Join our email list at sierrafreedomalliance.org to get alerts on public comment opportunities or connect with us on Facebook to share your thoughts. Let’s keep our water in local hands and our Sierra strong.
By: Sierra Freedom Alliance
Tags: #WaterRights #EasternSierra #LocalControl #OwensValley #SierraFreedomAlliance #CommunityAction
