They were diverting water from regular farms in the Sacramento delta to almond farms. The delta farmers were naturally upset.
The diversion was actually being pushed at the federal level, but Sacramento successfully fought back.
Almonds also do not respond well to periods of drought since the trees need to be watered each and every year. Annual crops can be rotated based on water availability.
Humans do not respond well to periods of drought since humans need to drink water each and every day. Camels can be rotated based on water availability.
