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Westlands Water District, Fresno County, California: Problems with the National Reclamation Act

This paper examines past and present aspects of the National Reclamation Act in the Westlands Irrigation District of Fresno County, California.The National Reclamation Act of 1902 was enacted to allow for the development of rural landscapes centered on small family farms. Acreage controls and residency clauses were the means of obtaining such a goal. However, lax enforcement has led to a landscape typified by large landholdings and absentee ownership.The history and philosophy of the Act are discussed, followed by examination of the development of the Westlands. The application of the Act's legal provisions and subsequent controversies are then addressed. Specifically, the Carter Administration's attempt at enforcement of the Act and the political process of amending the Act by the affected parties are analyzed, as well as the roles of special interest groups, private entities, and certain political figures. The impact of revised legislation on the Westlands rural landscape is also considered.