Policy Brief Policy Brief: The Financial Viability and Broader Benefits of SGMA-Ready Crops By Bradley Franklin, Caitlin Peterson, Spencer Cole, Andrew Ayres Jun 24, 2026 SGMA-ready crops could keep land in production while delivering other community benefits to the San Joaquin Valley. But do they pencil out for growers? Our economist does the math.
Report SGMA-Ready Crops as a Low-Water Alternative to Fallowing By Caitlin Peterson, Mark Lundy, A.J. Purdy, José Rodríguez-Flores Jun 24, 2026 As the San Joaquin Valley works to bring its groundwater basins into balance, our new research finds that certain crops and management practices can provide multiple benefits without compromising groundwater sustainability goals—and could help reduce widespread, uncoordinated fallowing.
Policy Brief Policy Brief: Lessons from California’s Early Literacy Policies By Sarah Novicoff Jun 10, 2026 Reading plays a critical role in educational outcomes and long-term success, but many students lack the skills they need to thrive. Under new literacy policies, reading skills in California have greatly improved, suggesting that growth is possible when the state invests in professional development and support for struggling students.
blog post The Art and Science of Transforming California’s Forests By Sarah Bardeen May 27, 2026 As California’s wildfire season approaches, how is the state working to prevent severe wildfires? We convened a panel of experts to discuss our new report on the state’s progress—and to look at what can help the effort stay on track.
Statewide Survey PPIC Statewide Survey: Californians and Their Government By Mark Baldassare, Dean Bonner, Lauren Mora, Deja Thomas May 27, 2026 Key findings of the survey include: Democrat Xavier Becerra and Republican Steve Hilton lead in the top-two gubernatorial primary. A majority of likely voters support a one-time tax on billionaires, while they are split on setting new voter ID requirements. Majorities say that higher gas prices have affected their financial situation and that military actions in Iran will hurt their finances.
blog post A Conversation with CDFW’s New Director, Meghan Hertel By Sarah Bardeen May 18, 2026 Earlier this year, Meghan Hertel—formerly the deputy secretary for biodiversity and habitat at the California Natural Resources Agency—took the helm of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. We recently spoke with Ms. Hertel about her vision for the department.
Report Understanding Trends in Law Enforcement Staffing By Brandon Martin, Deepak Premkumar, Mandi Acevedo Apr 29, 2026 Law enforcement agencies have experienced hiring and retention challenges amid the pandemic, economic uncertainty, and changing views of the police. This report provides key trends and context for understanding officer staffing in California and highlights several obstacles for agencies moving forward.
blog post What California’s Next Governor Needs to Know about Water By Letitia Grenier Apr 27, 2026 California water issues are notoriously complex: the insider-speak can be impenetrable—even for an expert. What does California’s next governor really need to know? The PPIC Water Policy Center outlines the essentials.
press release Half of Californians Say Public Education Needs Major Changes; Crowded Governor’s Race Remains Tight Apr 15, 2026
