At the end of the Water Forum for California Water Journalists on Friday, Jan. 17, participants left thinking about a variation of this theme: “California water policy: It’s complicated.” But after nine intensive workshops throughout the day, most said they are now better prepared to cover water issues in the Golden State.

“The boot camp at Fresno State was sponsored by the California Water Institute and the Institute for Media and Public Trust. We have been working with the Water Institute on ways we can leverage the strengths of our two organizations to increase our region’s knowledge of water issues, and help prepare journalists in covering those issues,” said Jim Boren, executive director of the Institute for Media and Public Trust. “The boot camp idea came out of those talks. We think it was a success and we are going to offer other training for journalists in public policy areas.”

This one-day seminar offered journalists an intense look into the many facets of water law and politics in the state, including important updates on major changes in rules, regulations and laws. The program gave reporters, columnists, editors and producers the tools they need to have a command of this complicated subject.

“The partnership between the two Institutes was a perfect blend for this and future events,” said Thomas Esqueda, executive director of the Water Institute.

Journalists learned the questions they need to ask to inform their readers, viewers and listeners about water issues in California. This program was helpful to journalists who don’t regularly cover water issues, as well as veteran journalists who wanted to hear the latest information
from state and national waters experts.

“The California Water Institute and Fresno State has the knowledge and access to resources to help educate and work towards a water resilience shared-vision for California,” said Laura Ramos, programs manager for the Water Institute. “Join us and keep an eye out future water related training for the campus and the community. “

Follow @institute_trust and @FSCWI on Twitter for information on upcoming events.