California's ongoing battle against devastating wildfires has brought its water management practices under intense scrutiny. While the state isn't experiencing a water shortage, firefighters are grappling with limited resources to combat the blazes threatening lives, homes, and the environment. Critics argue that political mismanagement, rather than climate change, is the primary culprit.

Experts point to the state's forestry management and outdated water reserves system as key factors contributing to the crisis. Many of California's reservoirs, built in the mid-20th century, struggle to handle the state's fluctuating water supply. Last year's record rainfall, following an atmospheric river event, saw a significant amount of water wasted due to inadequate storage capacity.

Edward Ring, director of water and energy policy for the California Policy Center, criticizes what he sees as "environmentalist extremists" pushing for stringent regulations like the Endangered Species Act. These regulations prioritize water flow for endangered fish, limiting water diversion for storage even during periods of abundant rainfall. Ring argues that while protecting these species is important, the policies haven't led to their recovery and may be hindering crucial water storage efforts.

Los Angeles' urban drainage system, designed for flood prevention rather than water conservation, poses another challenge. Stormwater is channeled directly into the ocean, further limiting the region's water resources during fire emergencies. Ring highlights the neglected water infrastructure in Los Angeles, attributing it to a misplaced focus on water reduction initiatives rather than maintaining a robust water system.

Despite voters approving Proposition 1 in 2014, which allocated funds for new reservoirs and groundwater storage, no new reservoirs have been completed. This inaction, even with a state budget surplus, further underscores the mismanagement of California's water resources, leaving the state vulnerable to the devastating effects of wildfires.