California could shut off water for thousands of farmers Published article FIREBAUGH, CALIFORNIA - MAY 25: Dry cracked earth is visible next to a field on May 25, 2021 in Firebaugh, California. As California enters an extreme drought emergency, water is starting to become scarce in California's Central Valley, one of the mo Expand SACRAMENTO, Calif. - California regulators are planning to stop thousands of farmers from taking water out of the state's major rivers and streams because of a worsening drought. The Sacramento Bee reported that the State Water Resources Control Board will vote on the "emergency curtailment" order Aug. 3. If approved, it would take effect about two weeks later. There would be exceptions for drinking water and other needs.