As an extraordinarily hot and dry February gives way to what we hope will be a much wetter March, it’s worthwhile to take a few steps back and consider how well-prepared our region is to thrive even in drought.

There are many factors, of course, but long-term planning and cooperation are big reasons why we have adequate supplies when other parts of the state are struggling. That’s an accomplishment worth celebrating during one of the driest periods in California history.