At the request of Governor Wilson a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was established in 1996 between the agricultural and environmental and public interest communities to further address efficient use of agricultural water in California.

The Governor's policy and the MOU focus on a consensus-based  voluntary agreements between all water interests.  All members of the Council are signatories to the MOU. The MOU establishes the Agricultural Water Management Council and provides guidance for a reporting process by which signatories evaluate and endorse water management plans.

Agricultural water suppliers will advance efficient water management through voluntary planning, implementing, and evaluating specific irrigation practices believed to improve water management. The MOU provides a specific list Efficient Water Management Practices (EWMPs) that water suppliers address in their Water Management Plans and commit to implementing at the highest practically feasible level.

  Memorandum of Understanding (Updated: Includes Exhibits A, B,C, D, E)

  Efficient Water Management Practices 

  AWMC Bylaws 

  AB3616 Agricultural Efficient Water Management Act of 1990