Yakima
Farmer #1
Somehow we need to replace it. I'm willing to do my part, but we need help. Mostly that's manpower. I've got equipment and people. But I don't the kind of money they're talking about. We need to ask Washington D.C. for help. Maybe a government and local response.
Yakima Legislator (Pro-Funding, Economic Focus)
“Yakima is the heart of Washington agriculture. If this canal fails, we risk billions in crops and thousands of jobs. I strongly support funding.”
Private Equity Investor
"I'm sorry, but this isn't a reasonable investment. I won't see a return on the amount of money I put into it for a number of years."
Representative - Washington
“Our state’s apple and hop industries depend on this canal. Replacing it protects billions in revenue and thousands of farming jobs.”
Mother - Cowiche
“My family relies on the jobs farms create. If water is cut off, it’s not just crops—it’s food on our table. My husband won't be able to work because he works on a farm.”
Yakima Legislator 2
“Our families and businesses depend on this water. This isn’t just about farms—it’s about schools, fire hydrants, and keeping Yakima communities alive.”
Tech Billionaire
"There's just a lack of efficiency in this situation. You need to really do things differently and bring the water in a different way. I've been using boring technology to solve transportation issues, and that could work with moving water. Try that. It's probably 600 Million, but it will work. Although I haven't bored through basalt so that might add to the cost."
Senator - Texas
“This project costs $240 million. With so many other needs in our nation, I cannot support adding more debt right now.”
Farmer #2
“Our hops supply breweries worldwide. Without reliable irrigation, we lose contracts, jobs, and our way of life here in Yakima. I'm willing to pay a little more but we have to find a way. All the farmers in Cowiche, Tieton, and West Valley couldn't pay for a new canal if they tried.”
Seattle Legislator
“I know the need is real, but $240 million is a huge request. I’ll support it only if local farmers share the cost.”
Celebrity Rich
"Look climate change is all around us. And water is something we're going to have to save. Maybe crops that use less water should be grown rather than apples and grapes. Maybe try figs??"
Senator - Arizona
“If this canal fails, crops across that valley will wither. Keeping water flowing ensures reliable food for Washington and the nation. I know about the importance of water infrastructure. Most of my state is a desert."
Businessman - West Valley
“My company ships fruit across the country. If the canal fails, I’ll have to lay off dozens of workers. The valley can’t afford that. I know this country used to put its back AND ITS MONEY in things that were good for everyone. Like schools, and roads and WATER! We need to get back to that kind of thinking and action!”
Wenatchee Legislator
“Our region also faces water shortages. I support Yakima’s canal project, but we need fair funding so Wenatchee orchards aren’t left behind.”
Wall Street Hedge Fund Manager
"I can't see this being reasonable unless you wanted to put the water rights on the table. If you sell the water too, and then everyone pays my investment company New York for their water, then we have a the making of a possible deal. Water is going to become the next gold, especially in places like Yakima. Sell your water, and maybe I can get some investors to build a new canal."
Representative - Florida
“The irrigation district should cover more of the cost. Local users benefit most, so taxpayers across the country shouldn’t foot the entire bill. Maybe we shouldn't be creating farms in places that are too expensive to keep."
Vinyard worker!
“I took over my parents’ vineyard, but with less water each year, I’m worried there won’t be a future for the next generation.”
Bellevue Legislator
“Western Washington has different priorities—housing, transit, and schools. I understand Yakima’s struggle, but I question putting so much of the state budget into one canal.”
Influencer - Millionaire
"Uh... Whu? This is boring."
Representative - California
“Instead of replacing the canal, we should explore modern solutions like water conservation and efficient irrigation. Repair alone may not solve long-term drought issues.”