On the calendar today …
- MEETING: Delta Stewardship Council will meet beginning at 10am in Stockton. The Delta Stewardship Council will meet in Stockton beginning at 10am. The meeting will also be webcast on Cal-Span. The Council will hear an overview of environmental justice issues relevant to the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, as recently identified through the ongoing development of an EJ issue paper, and directly from the EJ expert group members. The meeting will also include presentations from Council staff on their approach to the upcoming Delta Plan Five-Year Review, San Francisco Estuary Partnership on the recently published 2022 Estuary Blueprint, and Delta Conservancy and Delta Protection Commission on their respective agency’s activities. Click here for the full meeting notice.
- MEETING: Wildlife Conservation Board will meet beginning at 10am. The Board will hear an informational update on funding status and updates on several restoration projects. Click here for the agenda and remote access instructions.
- CDFW PUBLIC MEETING: Mark West Creek watershed reports from 11am to 12pm. Mark West Creek was selected for development of flow criteria due to its inclusion in the 2014 California Water Action Plan, as well as the need to assure the continued viability of stream-related fish and wildlife resources and ecological functions in the watershed. The Department is developing flow criteria for the priority streams outlined in the California Water Action Plan, including Mark West Creek mainstem and tributary reaches. CDFW will present two reports: Watershed-Wide Instream Flow Criteria for Mark West Creek and Instream Flow Evaluation: Juvenile Rearing of Steelhead and Coho Salmon in Upper Mark West Creek, Sonoma County. Access the meeting here: CDFW Mark West Creek Informational Meeting.
- WEBINAR: National Academies: Wildfires and Climate Change from 12pm to 1pm. Climate change is increasing the frequency and severity of wildfires in the U.S., putting more people at risk of exposure to fire and smoke, which can travel thousands of miles and affect the health of millions of people. A National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine webinar on August 25 will discuss how planners and decision-makers are coping with these challenges. Moderated by A.R. “Ravi” Ravishankara, professor in the departments of chemistry and atmospheric science at Colorado State University, this conversation will feature Sarah Coefield, air quality specialist in the Air Pollution Control Program, Missoula City-County Health Department; and Erica Fischer, assistant professor of structural engineering, Oregon State University. Click here to register.
- CONFERENCE: Water Solutions 7 from 1pm to 7pm in Irvine. Sustain SoCal presents WATER SOLUTIONS 7 (WS7), focused on exploring real life strategies and innovations in reuse, desal, storm water, energy nexus, contamination, investor and policy trends and big data in Southern California and the surrounding region. Join us in-person for presentations, networking and discussions as Sustain SoCal addresses pragmatic solutions to help assure sufficient and affordable supplies of water in our region. We’ll conclude the event with an innovator showcase and networking to follow. Click here to register.
In California water news today …
As Colorado River dries, the U.S. teeters on the brink of larger water crisis
“The western United States is, famously, in the grips of its worst megadrought in a millennium. The Colorado River, which supplies water to more than 40 million Americans and supports food production for the rest of the country, is in imminent peril. … Last week those states failed to agree on new conservation measures by deadline. … Meanwhile, next door, California, which draws from the Colorado, faces its own additional crises, with snowpack and water levels in both its reservoirs and aquifers all experiencing a steady, historic and climate-driven decline. I recently sat down with Jay Famiglietti, the executive director of the Global Institute for Water Security at the University of Saskatchewan, to talk about what comes next and what the public still doesn’t understand about water scarcity in the United States. … ” Read more from Pro Publica here: As Colorado River dries, the U.S. teeters on the brink of larger water crisis
Western states plan projects as water supply dwindles
“As Mexico and the seven western states that rely on water from the Colorado River Basin struggle to contend with the present repercussions of a more than two-decade drought—including federally imposed cuts to water supply in the coming year—they must also plan for a drier future exacerbated by the effects of climate change. Meanwhile, in California, the state faces the loss of 10% of its water supply by 2040. In response, Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) in August unveiled an $8-billion water supply strategy with plans that include capturing, recycling, desalinating and conserving more water over the next two decades —enough to provide supply for nearly 8.4 million households. ... ” Read more from Engineering News-Record here: Western states plan projects as water supply dwindles
Covering a disaster that hasn’t happened yet
“Not long ago, when I heard that California officials were embarking on an ambitious, multiyear effort to study one of the worst natural disasters in the state’s history, I knew there would be a lot of interesting material to cover. There was just one wrinkle: The disaster hadn’t happened yet — it still hasn’t. The California water authorities wanted to examine a much bigger and more powerful version of the rainstorms the state often gets in winter. The milder ones replenish water supplies. But the strong ones cause devastating flooding and debris flows. And the really strong ones, like those that have hit the Pacific Coast several times over the past millennium, can erase whole landscapes, turning valleys and plains into lakes. As global warming increases the likelihood and the intensity of severe storms, the state’s Department of Water Resources wanted to know: What would a really big (yet plausible) storm look like today? How well would we handle it? … ” Read more from the New York Times here: Covering a disaster that hasn’t happened yet
SEE ALSO: Record rain is hitting drought-stricken areas. That’s not good news, from the Washington Post
Klamath Irrigation District reverses course, will halt water deliveries to Oregon and California farmers
“The Klamath Irrigation District in southern Oregon has reversed course and now says it has complied with a U.S. government order to stop delivering water to farmers in the drought-stricken area. The district’s directors initially defied the federal government’s order to shut off water to the Klamath Project, but the Klamath Irrigation District has since closed a canal after federal officials threatened to withhold millions in drought assistance, the Capital Press reported on Wednesday. … The bureau has said the project is now out of water and ordered a shutdown last week, but irrigation district directors met on Monday and authorized the district’s manager, Gene Souza, to continue operations, arguing that the U.S. agency had not provided a legal justification. That prompted a letter from Alan Heck, acting area manager for the bureau, warning that unless the irrigation district reversed course, it would disqualify all lands served by the district from receiving $20 million in emergency drought funding. … ” Read more from OPB here: Klamath Irrigation District reverses course, will halt water deliveries to Oregon and California farmers
Klamath district complies with water shutoff after feds threaten funding
“After initially indicating it would defy the federal government’s order to shut off water to the Klamath Project, the Klamath Irrigation District has closed the A Canal under duress from officials threatening to withhold millions of dollars of drought assistance. On Aug. 19, Reclamation stated the project was out of water and ordered districts to immediately halt diversions. All remaining water in Upper Klamath Lake was needed to satisfy requirements for endangered salmon and sucker fish, according to the agency. …The KID Board of Directors met Aug. 22 and authorized the district’s manager, Gene Souza, to continue operations despite the order, arguing that Reclamation had not provided a legal justification for shutting down earlier than expected. That prompted a letter later that day from Alan Heck, acting area manager for the bureau, warning that unless KID reversed course, it would disqualify all lands served by the district from receiving $20 million in emergency drought funding. … ” Read more from the Capital Press here: Klamath district complies with water shutoff after feds threaten funding
Northern California ranchers defy state orders to cut water usage
“The Yurok and Karuk tribes have blown the whistle on ranchers in Northern California who are defying state orders to curtail water usage by diverting flow from the Shasta River, imperiling already endangered salmon of the Klamath tributaries. The tribes say the diversion led to a 37% decrease in Shasta River flows, from 58 cubic feet per second to 36 in two hours on Aug. 17. The Shasta River Water Association’s diversion came days after a fire-induced mudslide killed tens of thousands of fish in a 60-mile reach of the Klamath River. “The Shasta River Water Association is illegally dewatering one of the most important salmon nurseries in California,” said Karuk Chairman Russell Attebery in a statement Tuesday. … ” Read more from the Courthouse News Service here: Northern California ranchers defy state orders to cut water usage
The State Water Board takes enforcement action against Shasta River Water Association for illegal diversions
“As California heads into a fourth year of drought, the State Water Resources Control Board has continued to protect water supplies and the environment by imposing curtailments in multiple Northern California watersheds: Russian River, Scott and Shasta Rivers, Mill and Deer Creeks and the Delta. On August 17, the Shasta River Water Association, which is subject to curtailments, informed the State Water Board that it would begin diverting water from the Shasta River the same day. Before the association’s unlawful diversions began that day, the flow rate at the Yreka USGS gauge was 46.8 cubic feet per second (cfs). Since then, the river’s flow rate has dropped significantly, falling to as low as 11.7 cubic feet per second during the early morning of August 24. A minimum flow rate of 50 cfs is required per the board’s emergency regulation to help juvenile salmonids survive and to support the migration of mature fall-run Chinook and coho salmon, which is expected to begin in early September. … ” Continue reading this press release from the State Water Resources Control Board here: The State Water Board takes enforcement action against Shasta River Water Association for illegal diversions
California to cover canal with solar panels in experiment to fight drought, climate change
“California is about to launch an experiment to cover aqueducts with solar panels, a plan that if scaled up might save billions of gallons of otherwise evaporated water while powering millions of homes. Project Nexus in the Turlock Irrigation District launches in mid-October amid Western North America’s worst drought in 1,200 years and as human-influenced climate change exacerbates the dry spell. The $20 million project, funded by the state, is due to break ground in two locations. … ” Read more from Reuters News here: California to cover canal with solar panels in experiment to fight drought, climate change
With less water for lawns, some Californians switch to drought-resistant landscapes
“I’m Erin Stone in Los Angeles, where more than a third of water goes to outdoor irrigation, a lot of it at homes. Because of the historic drought, 6 million Southern California homes can water their lawns only once or twice a week, and a complete ban may come soon. Walking a lawn and tree-lined street in the lush neighborhood of Hancock Park is Damon Ayala, a patroller with the city’s water conservation response unit. He’s already written a citation for sprinklers being on when they shouldn’t be. His unit’s been called water cops, but Ayala prefers a different label. … ” Read more from KCBX here: With less water for lawns, some Californians switch to drought-resistant landscapes
Agencies urge governor to sign bill to reinstate tax exemption for turf replacement rebate programs
“The Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA), California Water Efficiency Partnership (CalWEP), WaterNow Alliance and a large coalition of other associations and local water agencies are urging Gov. Gavin Newsom to sign AB 2142 (Gabriel), which would reinstate the California personal tax exemption for turf replacement rebates and help incentivize participation in these important, water saving programs. The bill passed the Senate yesterday and is awaiting the governor’s signature. “Many water suppliers offer customer rebate programs as a proven, cost-effective tool for reducing water use and promoting water conservation as a California way of life. However, taxing water efficient rebates is a disincentive for Californians to participate in these programs,” said CalWEP Co-Executive Director Tia Fleming. … ” Read more from ACWA here: Agencies urge governor to sign bill to reinstate tax exemption for turf replacement rebate programs
CA Water Data Consortium Report: California Urban Water Data Reporting
“Water supply and use data are vital to understanding urban water trends, needs and future water planning by all levels of government and the public. However, these data are often not available in the timeframes or formats required to support timely management decisions, particularly during periods of drought when time sensitive decisions are necessary. To mitigate these challenges, the California Water Data Consortium (Consortium) is advancing an Urban Water Reporting project to identify opportunities to align current water supply and use data collected by urban water suppliers with state reporting requirements to support timely water management decisions in California. This report provides an overview of workshop discussion and potential solutions from an Urban Water Data Reporting Workshop hosted by the Consortium on June 6, 2022. The workshop included state agency employees and leadership, urban water suppliers, consultants, data users, and others.” Read the report here: California Urban Water Data Reporting
Fact check: Will Californians have to use water restrictor during drought?
“The extent of California’s ongoing drought is starting to have more and more noticeable and disturbing effects, with aquatic wildlife left to rot in the sun as the state experiences its driest spell in 1,200 years. The extremely hot temperatures have left all 58 of California’s counties under a drought emergency proclamation, with water rationing continuing in the state’s battle against the climate. Nonetheless, one measure used to combat the shortage was met with incredulity when it was posted on social media. A picture, shared on imgur on August 22, 2022, shows a small metal plate with a hole in the middle and the subtitle: “This is in LA….how is this remotely humane?” … ” Read more from Newsweek here: Fact check: Will Californians have to use water restrictor during drought?
Most Californians view state’s water shortage as extremely serious, poll finds
“Most Californians agree the state’s drought situation is very serious, but only a minority of voters say they and their families have been significantly affected by the current water shortage, according to a new poll. The survey of more than 9,000 voters statewide found that 71% said the state’s water shortage is “extremely serious,” while 23% described it as somewhat serious. Far fewer of those voters indicated they are directly feeling the effects of the drought, according to the poll by the UC Berkeley Institute of Governmental Studies, which was co-sponsored by the Los Angeles Times. Just 9% said they and their families have been affected “a great deal” by the current water shortage, and 32% said they’ve been affected somewhat, while 57% said they have been affected “only a little” or not at all. … ” Read more from the LA Times here: Most Californians view state’s water shortage as extremely serious, poll finds
UCSD says climate change could push flood damage to $3B a year in western U.S.
“UC San Diego says the atmospheric river storms that periodically hit the western U.S. could cause as much as $3.2 billion a year in flood damage by the end of the century, a figure three times higher than an estimate the university made in 2019. Researchers also say the figure could be trimmed to about $2 billion a year if countries significantly reduce the amount of greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere. The findings were made in a paper published in the journal Scientific Reports on Aug. 12. It was based on an updated look at differing climate models, one which put annual flood damage at $2.3 billion in the 2090s and another which put the figure at $3.2 billion heading into 2100. … ” Read more from the San Diego Union-Tribune here: UCSD says climate change could push flood damage to $3B a year in western U.S.
A surprising amount of dry lightning hits California, fueling fire risk
“Lightning strikes are rare in Northern and Central California — so infrequent as to be overlooked by science. But the subject has been of urgent interest since August 2020, when a massive complex of thunderstorms thrashed its way across the state, dropping not rain but thousands of bolts of “dry lightning”: cloud-to-ground strikes without accompanying rainfall exceeding one-tenth of an inch (2.5 millimeters). The effects were predictable, immediate and immense: wildfires, 650 in total, burning upward of 2 million acres. The first in-depth look at the region’s dry lightning events was published this month, prompted by that historic event. For a sunbaked land now deep into a drought, the top-line findings are ominous: There may be more of these strikes than realized. … ” Read more from the Washington Post here: A surprising amount of dry lightning hits California, fueling fire risk
Putting out fires is just the beginning
“The lingering effects of wildfires on ecosystems and communities are varied, but one of the more notable — and less understood — is the effect on water quality. Conversations around post-wildfire water quality management are producing new insights for monitoring programs across the state. “We’re looking at a potentially really bad fire season,” says Tegan Hoffman, co-founder of Coastal Quest, a non-profit group working in-part on understanding the post-fire effects on coastal water quality and infrastructure. “So we really need to be protecting our watersheds.” Several studies on post-fire water quality have shown that drinking water could become contaminated in a wildfire affected area from burnt plastic plumbing. Contaminants may enter the water system after pipes reach high temperature and then are later exposed to running water. … Read more from Knee Deep Times here: Putting out fires is just the beginning
Why environmentalists say Newsom’s climate push has dangerous strings attached
“In a vacuum, Gov. Gavin Newsom’s proposed climate change package is the sort of bold move that many environmentalists would ordinarily cheer because it aims to quickly ramp up California’s efforts to reduce planet-warming emissions. But the governor’s climate push has received a lukewarm response that could jeopardize his ability to get the landmark plan approved at the state Capitol before legislators must adjourn for the year next Wednesday. Many environmentalists and legislators are skeptical over what they see as two major strings attached to Newsom’s proposal: He wants to delay the closure of California’s last nuclear power plant and carve out a role for carbon-capture technology, which activists say could give industry a loophole to avoid cutting emissions. … ” Read more from the San Francisco Chronicle here: Why environmentalists say Newsom’s climate push has dangerous strings attached
In commentary today …
Leave groundwater management to local water experts
Louise Lampara, executive director of the Ventura County Coalition of Labor, Agriculture and Business, writes, “Assemblymember Steve Bennett’s proposed Assembly Bill 2201, which would create a new permanent permitting process for groundwater wells, negatively affects local water districts, municipalities and California’s agricultural community. Despite recent amendments to the bill language, AB 2201 would force a strict new mandate on how groundwater sustainability agencies must operate. The bill removes the ability of locally based groundwater experts to decide for themselves what management options best address local conditions. Instead, the bill would require local experts to make specific findings and determinations for new and modified groundwater wells before they may be allowed. … ” Read more from Cal Matters here: Leave groundwater management to local water experts
Proposed budget doesn’t do justice to water storage
Assemblymember Vince Fong writes, “Gov. Gavin Newsom and legislative Democrats had the opportunity to alleviate the state’s twin crises of drought and wildfire by including resources for ongoing funding, prescribed burning and water storage in this year’s budget. These solutions are not new, but they require political will. In light of the haunting memories of past catastrophic wildfires, this year’s budget will miss an opportunity. Sacramento failed to learn from its past mistakes. The proposed budget provides $258 million – a reduction from a proposed $1 billion – for wildfire prevention and response efforts and $3 billion for drought, but lacks any water storage commitment. Critical details are lacking, with discussions ongoing. … ” Read more from the Ceres Courier here: Proposed budget doesn’t do justice to water storage
If Newsom wants climate action, why dismiss a California clean energy plan as ‘fairy dust’?
Alex Jackson, director of the American Clean Power-California, and V. John White, executive director of the Center for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Technologies, write, “With only a few weeks remaining in the legislative session, Gov. Gavin Newsom introduced a multi-billion dollar climate package that could do a lot of good. But the proposals have a few glaring omissions. On one hand, Newsom pushed the Legislature to significantly expand California’s climate objectives, turning a statewide goal of carbon neutrality into law and increasing the state’s greenhouse gas emissions reductions targets. On the other hand, he proposed something that would have been unthinkable even a few years ago: delaying the planned retirement of the Diablo Canyon nuclear plant for up to 10 years. Newsom says it’s a necessary step to “keep the lights on” as the state transitions to a 100% clean power system. But that’s not the only unsettling element of the governor’s climate package. … ” Read more from the Sacramento Bee here: If Newsom wants climate action, why dismiss a California clean energy plan as ‘fairy dust’?
No, California doesn’t need Diablo Canyon to keep the lights on
Physicist Amory Lovins, an adjunct professor of civil and environmental engineering at Stanford, and Ed Smeloff, who has worked in the energy industry for 25 years, write, “Under the past three governors, California has worked on mapping out a clear pathway to zeroing out greenhouse gases in the world’s fifth largest economy. Meeting this ambitious goal in a way that does not jeopardize electric reliability while maintaining reasonable costs across California’s economy has been the work of energy planners and economists both inside and outside of state government for the past 15 years. But a hasty push from Gov. Gavin Newsom’s office to extend the operations of the Diablo Canyon nuclear power plant may jeopardize years of planning and add huge costs and risks. … ” Read more from the San Francisco Chronicle here: No, California doesn’t need Diablo Canyon to keep the lights on
Why mature and old forests are so important for climate mitigation and adaptation
Beverly E. Law, professor emeritus of global change biology and terrestrial systems science in the College of Forestry at Oregon State University, and William H. Schlesinger, a biogeochemist and president emeritus and former director of the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies in Millbrook, New York, write, “The United Nation’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) indicates that we must substantially reduce emissions from burning fossil fuels and simultaneously increase removal of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere by land and ocean reservoirs. A recent executive order recognizes the importance of mature and old-growth forests in limiting climate change and makes their conservation a national policy. It also sets ambitious goals for the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management (BLM), including “to conserve our mature and old-growth forests on Federal lands and restore the health and vibrancy of our Nation’s forests.” … ” Read more from The Hill here: Why mature and old forests are so important for climate mitigation and adaptation
Today’s featured article …
DELTA LEAD SCIENTIST: Analyzing Delta fish data using multiple fish surveys
At the July meeting of the Delta Stewardship Council, Delta Lead Scientist Dr. Laurel Larsen presented the results of a synthesis study using multiple fish surveys, implementation of the 2022-26 Science Action Agenda, and peer review of the Sacramento River Water Temperature Modeling Platform.
Click here to read this article.
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In regional water news and commentary today …
NORTH COAST
‘I don’t sell water — I make it, but I don’t sell it’; Salem company looks to bring weather modification technology to Curry, Klamath counties
“Alexander Jenkins III says his company has the technology to make it rain and he wants to share it with Curry and Klamath counties for free for three years. Jenkins, chief strategic and scientific officer for Salem-based Oannes Research and Development Corporation, says his company’s Aquaelicium device can desalinate ocean water to create clouds, fog, mist, direct-to-pipe water and even snow. He proposes to install devices in either Brookings or Gold Beach and in Klamath County. At the end of three years, he says, the coastal communities will have three years’ worth of water, salt and rare earth minerals such as cobalt and lithium to use how they see fit. … ” Read more from the Lost Coast Outpost here: ‘I don’t sell water — I make it, but I don’t sell it’; Salem company looks to bring weather modification technology to Curry, Klamath counties
Rising up at the Klamath Salmon Festival
“The 58th annual Klamath Salmon Festival got underway on the morning of Saturday, Aug. 20, after a two-year pandemic break. The usual Fogust low clouds soon cleared and, thankfully, the only smoke in the air was coming from the salmon barbecue pit — no wildfire smoke blew in from the nearby inland fires. The Yurok Tribe’s theme for this year was “Rising Up,” in recognition of the recent reintroduction of the Prey-go-neesh, or California condor, in Yurok Country and the pending removal of the Klamath River dams. It was magical to see a large California condor replica perched on the parade entry vehicle of the Klamath Boys and Girls Club. … ” Read more from the North Coast Journal here: Rising up at the Klamath Salmon Festival
Wiyot Tribe celebrates return of coastal land
“The Wiyot Tribe has gotten some more of its land back. On Friday, members of the Wiyot Tribe joined members of the Ocean Protection Council and Cal Poly Humboldt to celebrate the purchase of 46 acres, encompassing the last pieces of undeveloped coastal wetland and upland near Humboldt Bay, known as Mouralherwaqh or wolf’s house, according to a Ocean Protection Council press release. “This is how we make change in today’s world,” Wiyot Tribal Chair Ted Hernandez said during the ceremony. ... ” Read more from the Eureka Times-Standard here: Wiyot Tribe celebrates return of coastal land
MOUNTAIN COUNTIES
Harmful algal blooms around Lake Tahoe – caution warnings issued
“California’s climate is getting hotter and drier, and the consequences are taking a toll on the state’s ecosystem. If you’ve been at the beaches of Lake Tahoe recently, you’ll notice something that isn’t normal – algae, and lots of it. Experts are warning residents and visitors to be on the lookout for harmful algal blooms (HABs) in bodies of water in the greater Tahoe area. No area is in the danger zone at this time, but people and dogs using the following areas should take caution … ” Read more from South Tahoe Now here: Harmful algal blooms around Lake Tahoe – caution warnings issued
SACRAMENTO VALLEY
Pacific Flyway partnerships and splendor on display in Central Valley Joint Venture video
“The Central Valley Joint Venture (CVJV) recently released a video highlighting the scientific work and partnerships that contribute to the recovery of migratory waterfowl, shorebirds and other bird species that utilize the Pacific Flyway. Shot in the Sacramento Valley, the video is packed with incredible visuals of the region’s landscape and the many different birds that travel to the area in the winter months. The video includes interviews with the partners managing land and water resources, implementing habitat projects and conducting scientific studies to maximize habitat for the Flyway species, including NCWA board member Nicole Montna Van Vleck. … ” Read more from the Northern California Water Association here: Pacific Flyway partnerships and splendor on display in Central Valley Joint Venture video
NAPA/SONOMA
Petaluma’s reduction in water use ranks among highest in state
“Water conservation efforts in Petaluma appear to be working, according to the latest data from the California State Water Resources Control Board. Water users in the city of Petaluma reduced their usage by 34.3% in June, making it the sixth greatest conserving area in the state, and No. 1 in the San Francisco Bay hydrologic area, according to data released by the state’s water board. In June, water users in Petaluma used 72 gallons daily per capita, which was down from 80 gallons in June 2021 and 93 gallons in June 2020. In Sonoma County, the city of Healdsburg narrowly outpaced Petaluma in its water conservation totals, with a 34.6% reduction in June. … ” Read more from the Petaluma Argus-Courier here: Petaluma’s reduction in water use ranks among highest in state
BAY AREA
Marin County: Sinking and sharing a new well
“Construction is wrapping up on a new well in Marin County that will supply drinking water to Point Reyes Station, Olema, Inverness Park, Paradise Ranch Estates, and Bear Valley. It will also allow the North Marin Water District to transition away from its dependence on aging wells that are situated in places where seasonal high tides (and rising sea level) can cause increased salinity in tap water. And the new well continues a ranching family’s commitment to sharing its water wealth. To build the well, the water district activated language in an agricultural conservation easement to secure the land along Lagunitas Creek, which is part of the Gallagher North Bend Ranch. … ” Read more from Knee Deep Times here: Sinking and sharing a new well
Zone 7 gears up for water rate meetings
“The Zone 7 Water Agency is set next week to kick off the first in a series of hearings that will examine and review wholesale water rates for the entire Tri-Valley. The workshops and board meetings will be focused on reviewing wholesale water rates for 2023, 2024, 2025 and 2026 to “ensure treated water rates keep pace with the increasing costs to provide safe, reliable water,” according to a news release. … ” Read more from the Livermore Independent here: Zone 7 gears up for water rate meetings
Zone 7 welcomes Newsom’s state water strategy
“In preparation for the weather whiplash of drier droughts and wetter floods in California, Gov. Gavin Newsom released on Aug. 11 a sweeping water supply strategy that called for resiliency through investments in the storage, recycling, efficiency, capture and desalination of water in the state. Zone 7, the Tri-Valley’s water wholesaler, which receives around 80% of its water from the State Water Project (SWP), largely supported the governor’s focus areas and looked forward to a more reliable and resilient water supply for the area as a result of the plan. “I’m glad to see that the governor is making water-supply reliability at the state level a priority,” said Zone 7 director Dennis Gambs. “(The plan) could accelerate the review and approval process for the Los Vaqueros expansion and Sites Reservoir. That would make our water supply more reliable and we would not need to purchase water through costly transfers.” … ” Read more from the Livermore Independent here: Zone 7 welcomes Newsom’s state water strategy
Santa Clara County inches closer to 15% water use reduction goal
“Santa Clara County residents and businesses reduced their water use in June by 9% compared to 2019. While this was the county’s best water savings month so far this year, we have not reached our target of 15% savings. As our region and state endure the third year of drought, it’s critical we continue to reduce water use. On June 9, 2021, the Valley Water Board of Directors called for a water use reduction of 15% compared to 2019. Since then, Santa Clara County has experienced a collective savings of 3% which includes residential and commercial sectors. … ” Read more from Valley Water News here: Santa Clara County inches closer to 15% water use reduction goal
CENTRAL COAST
Pure Water Monterey receives over $10 million in federal grant
“An expansion of the Pure Water Monterey Project will now be aided by $10,316,822 in federal grant funding. The U.S. Department of Interior has recognized the project as meeting the Biden Administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law requirements. According to the Bureau of Reclamation’s Commissioner Camille Touton, “Water reuse helps communities diversify their water supply as they are facing an unprecedented drought and a changing climate.” Touton went on to add, “This has tangible impacts and can help feed families, grow crops, sustain wildlife and the environment, and help more families access safe, clean, reliable water. These projects will provide flexibility for communities and help them stretch their current drinking supplies as they will be treating wastewater that continues to be available.” … ” Read more from KION here: Pure Water Monterey receives over $10 million in federal grant
San Luis Obispo County’s proposed Paso basin ordinance draws backlash from agriculture
“Paso Robles agricultural stakeholders have been concerned for nearly two years about a revised set of county rules for the Paso Robles Groundwater Basin coming down the pike. At first, concerns centered on a proposed five-fold increase in the amount of water each basin landowner could pump from their properties without restriction, and how that could impact the aquifer. But since May’s release of a draft environmental impact report (EIR) for the policy, farmers’ list of concerns has grown well beyond that. In public comment letters submitted to the county in response to the EIR, ag groups panned the new ordinance and warned that the package of new rules and mitigation measures it creates for farmers would be “unprecedented.” … ” Read more from New Times SLO here: San Luis Obispo County’s proposed Paso basin ordinance draws backlash from agriculture
9 Ventura County water agencies with strict watering rules meet California conservation goal
“Amid a years-long drought, the only Ventura County agencies that reached the state’s goal of 15% water savings in June were those with one-day-a-week watering restrictions. The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California supplies those communities in Ventura County with Northern California water delivered by the State Water Project. After a record dry start to the year, the state limited its deliveries to just 5%. In response, the mega-district required those customers and others in Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties to cut outdoor watering as of June 1 or find other ways to conserve. … ” Read more from the Ventura County Star here: 9 Ventura County water agencies with strict watering rules meet California conservation goal
Ventura Water Pure plans underway
“People who enjoy visiting the playground at Ventura’s Marina Park may be wondering why the equipment was removed and when something new will be installed in its place. It turns out the answer is complicated because the playground area — and half of the entire park for that matter — will be transformed into a construction site for part of a massive $300 million water project that will likely take over a year to complete. City officials currently estimate the bulk of the work at Marina Park will start after Labor Day of 2023 and be complete by early 2025. The aim of city officials is to build what’s known as the Ventura Water Pure system which will divert water from the city’s wastewater treatment plant that currently flows into the Santa Clara River Estuary. A new advanced water purification facility will be built near the wastewater plant to create water that’s safe to drink, and will be injected into underground aquifers for later use as part of the city’s water supply. … ” Read more from the Ventura County Reporter here: Ventura Water Pure plans underway
SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY
Late summer rains brought little – but not much – drought relief to San Joaquin Valley watersheds
“Monsoonal rains in early August offered a brief moment of relief to some San Joaquin Valley watersheds. But the dousing of rain did not make a dent in the ongoing drought, according to water managers. “It helped a couple of the Kern River interests with flow that they weren’t anticipating,” said Mark Mulkay, Kern River watermaster. “We’re falling back down now.” The Kern River watershed probably saw an increase of a couple thousand acre feet, said Mulkay. That offered some water users a bump of surface water and the ability to turn off wells, he added. The monsoon water lasted for about 10 days, said Mulkay. … ” Read more from SJV Water here: Late summer rains brought little – but not much – drought relief to San Joaquin Valley watersheds
Kern Co. OKs fixes to restore local oil permitting system
“Kern’s Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a series of changes Tuesday intended to revive the county’s embattled oil and gas permitting system. The board’s action on idle oilfield equipment on farmland, fine-particulate emissions and a fund for drinking water systems constituted county government’s response to a June court ruling that faulted aspects of Kern’s longstanding efforts to streamline local oil permitting. Staff’s plan now is to return to Kern County Superior Court on Sept. 28 to persuade Judge Gregory Pulskamp to declare its 7-year-old permitting system, which has been on hold since October, compliant with the California Environmental Quality Act. … ” Read more from the San Joaquin Valley Sun here: Kern Co. OKs fixes to restore local oil permitting system
EASTERN SIERRA
Shorebird survey of Mono Lake’s entire shoreline
“Mono Lake is known for its shorebirds—flocks of dainty phalaropes awe us as they fly amongst the tufa, striking black-and-white avocets congregate at the County Park boardwalk, and sandpipers forage on recently exposed mudflats. Even at its unnaturally low level, Mono Lake is a huge lake, and shorebird numbers and distribution here are poorly understood. Full surveys hadn’t been completed on the lake since 2008, and as the climate changes and lake levels fluctuate, understanding how shorebirds use and depend on this unique saline lake is more important than ever. … ” Read more from the Mono Lake Committee here: Shorebird survey of Mono Lake’s entire shoreline
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Palmdale Water District decreases annual assessment for 2022-2023
“The Palmdale Water District Board of Directors, on Monday, approved a slight decrease in the annual assessment for 2022-2023. The assessment is charged each year to property owners on the Los Angeles County tax rolls to cover the District’s portion of the fixed costs of the State Water Project, which carries water from Northern California through the California Aqueduct. The State Water Project is a major source of water for the Palmdale Water District for supplying its customers. … ” Read more from the Antelope Valley Press here: Palmdale Water District decreases annual assessment for 2022-2023
Las Virgenes Municipal Water District (LVMWD) commends Metropolitan Water District’s call to action to provide equitable water supply reliability to all member agencies
“The MWD Board of Directors unanimously approved a commitment to ensure equitable access to its water supply and storage assets by building infrastructure, increasing local supply availability, expanding partnerships, and advancing water use efficiency at its August 16th Board meeting. The call to action comes in response to disparate impacts from the historic drought on six member agencies, serving approximately 6.6 million residents of Southern California. The affected areas are referred to as “State Water Project (SWP) dependent” because they rely almost 100% on imported water from the SWP and lack access to alternate supplies stored in Diamond Valley Lake or delivered via the Colorado River Aqueduct. LVMWD is the most severely affected of the SWP-dependent area agencies, facing a 73% reduction in supply from MWD, as its service area lacks local drinking water supplies. … ”
4 million LA County residents asked not to water outdoors for 2 weeks — and Pasadena, La Cañada and Altadena are included
“More than 4 million residents in Los Angeles County will be asked to suspend outdoor watering for 15 days next month while the Metropolitan Water District repairs a leak in a water pipeline. The repairs will take place from Sept. 6 to 20, and will impact the cities of Beverly Hills, Burbank, Glendale, Long Beach, Pasadena, San Fernando and Torrance. Residents in the Central Basin Municipal Water District, Foothill Municipal Water District, Three Valleys Municipal Water District and West Basin Municipal Water District will also be impacted. … ” Read more from the Pasadena Star News here: 4 million LA County residents asked not to water outdoors for 2 weeks — and Pasadena, La Cañada and Altadena are included
What’s the deal with all the turtles in Los Angeles parks?
“Imagine you’re meeting up with friends for a picnic in your favorite L.A. park. You scan the grass for the optimal place to set up a blanket and decide on a shady spot near the pond. As you chat and enjoy your lunch, you notice a few turtles basking on a sun-dappled log and smile. It’s one of the beauties of life in Los Angeles — that in the midst of a sprawling metropolis, wildlife coexists alongside humans. One problem, though: By and large, the turtles you see in city parks across Los Angeles aren’t native to California. … ” Read more from the LA Times here: What’s the deal with all the turtles in Los Angeles parks?
Project to improve Santa Ana River levee system to begin in September
“A four-year project to repair and upgrade the levee system along portions of the Santa Ana River running between Riverside and Jurupa Valley will begin next month, enhancing flood protection for thousands of homes and businesses, officials announced today. The Riverside County Flood Control & Water Conservation District, in partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, will be overseeing the $36 million rehabilitation effort, which is scheduled to start in mid-September. “We are looking forward to beginning this long-awaited and vital public safety project,” district Chief Engineer Jason Uhley said. According to Uhley, the improved levee network will translate to greater flood control protections for roughly 4,300 structures, most of them residential properties in Riverside and Jurupa Valley. … ” Read more from Hey SoCal here: Project to improve Santa Ana River levee system to begin in September
Water-starved shrubs likely intensified recent wildfires in Southern California
“Native shrubbery that died during a severe 7-year-long drought helped spread the 2017 Thomas and 2018 Woolsey Fires, according to research published in the journal, Ecosphere. These wildfires were ignited by electric power line failures and spread through vast areas of dead vegetation, directly impacting communities in Santa Barbara, Ventura and Los Angeles counties. Evergreen, densely packed shrubs cover much of Southern California. These shrubs, called chaparral, are adapted to California’s wet winters and dry summers, but when one of the driest and longest lasting droughts hit the state from the end of 2011 to spring of 2017, landscapes normally filled with living green plants were left with grey-colored drought-killed remains. Although many people think of forest fires when they think of large fires, forests only cover 10% of natural landscapes in Southern California. “Chaparral dominates the same landscapes that people dominate,” said Jon Keeley, a USGS research ecologist who led the study. “Our new research helps us understand how drought-stricken chaparral can help spread big fires that are close to where people live.” … ” Read more from the USGS here: Water-starved shrubs likely intensified recent wildfires in Southern California
Local officials promote proposed wildlife refuge in Riverside County
“Local leaders are pressing Congress to create a new wildlife refuge in Riverside County. Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., and Sen. Alex Padilla, D-Calif., recently introduced the Western Riverside National Wildlife Refuge Act, and Rep. Ken Calvert, D-Calif., introduced the House version this spring. Aaron Hake deputy executive director of the Riverside County Transportation Commission, which manages the Western Riverside County Regional Conservation Authority, explained the next steps. “The exact location of the refuge is not yet defined,” Hake pointed out. “If these bills pass, it will then be up to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to decide where they would like to acquire land to establish the refuge.” … ” Read more from the Public News Service here: Local officials promote proposed wildlife refuge in Riverside County
Lake Hemet is either about half empty or half full
“Lake Hemet’s lake level when full is 135 feet, according to Lake Hemet Municipal Water District (LHMWD) General Mike Gow in his report to directors at the board meeting last Thursday. The report stated that when the lake is half full, the level is 118 feet. As of July 26, he wrote, the level is only 120.5 feet. LHMWD is purchasing raw, imported water from Eastern Municipal Water District (EMWD), well 17 and groundwater banked through the Hemet-San Jacinto Watermaster from associated wells for irrigation demand in the farm areas of Valle Vista. ... ” Read more from the Idyllwild Town Crier here: Lake Hemet is either about half empty or half full
Idyllwild Water District suffers large water loss in July
“In the July operations report, a 19% loss of water raised the eyebrows of directors. General Manager Leo Havener said he did not know why so much, 275,000 gallons, was lost. He supposed it could be a leak that no one told IWD about, Idyllwild Fire Department training or contractors taking water that isn’t on meters. President Charles Schelly said, “We need to be very vigilant about leaks and we know that we have a very old system.” Director Peter Szabadi noted that water demand for the month of July was 70% of capacity, up from 59% in both May and June. If it continues next month, he asked if Havener would move to Stage 3 water conservation level. “Correct,” Havener said. … ” Read more from the Idyllwild Town Crier here: Idyllwild Water District suffers large water loss in July
The window to protect Big Bear from wildfire is shrinking
“Christina Barba is on a mission to set more forest fires. The good kind. The intentional kind. The kind that prevents the next wildfire from becoming a mega-fire. On a dry afternoon last spring, she drove through stands of towering ponderosa and Jeffrey pines in San Bernardino County, just outside the mountain town of Big Bear Lake. Parking her U.S. Forest Service pickup at the top of a ridge, she pointed across a wide valley at a hillside thriving with shrubs and dotted with burnt tree trunks. In 2007, the Butler 2 and Slide fires torched the hillside and more than 300 homes and businesses between here and Lake Arrowhead. Barba said the hillside has undergone what’s known as “site conversion”: New foliage has grown back, but a future for pine trees is less certain. “In my mind,” said Barba, “it’s probably never going to be a forest again.” … ” Read more from Capital Public Radio here: The window to protect Big Bear from wildfire is shrinking
IMPERIAL/COACHELLA VALLEYS
State on point for completing 4100 acre habitat at the Salton Sea
“The Salton Sea Management Program (SSMP) announced 60% of the Species Conservation Habitat (SCH) is completed and the project is still full steam ahead at the 4,100-acre project at the southern end of the Salton Sea. The SCH project is the state’s first large-scale habitat restoration project that will create a network of ponds and provide important fish and bird habitat while also suppressing dust emissions to protect regional air quality, according to the SSMP newsletter. Endangered desert pupfish and a broad range of bird species are actively using the new habitat created after the completion of the interception ditch last year. According to the SSMP, besides 60 % completion, all the perimeter berms of the habitat ponds are 90% complete, bird nesting and loafing islands are three quarters finished, and the work on the saline intake, northern berm and the new River intake are ongoing. The project remains on schedule to be completed in 2023. … ” Read more from the Desert Review here: State on point for completing 4100 acre habitat at the Salton Sea
SAN DIEGO
Lake Hodges Dam repair continues
“The lower water levels people might be seeing at Lake Hodges are not drought-related, but instead are due to the ongoing work repairing the 100-year-old Lake Hodges Dam. The emergency work on the dam began in May and is expected to be completed by October. During an inspection earlier this year, the city of San Diego identified areas in the dam wall that needed to be repaired and sealed. To complete the work, the water level of the reservoir had to be lowered by about 18 feet, to an elevation of 275 feet. According to the city, by starting the repairs during the dry season, the water level can more easily be lowered and maintained at a lower level so that the repairs can be made. … ” Read more from the San Diego Union-Tribune here: Lake Hodges Dam repair continues
Editorial: San Diego-Tijuana border access, sewage cleanup sound promising, but we’ve heard it before
The San Diego Union-Tribune editorial board writes, “The groundbreaking this week for a second border crossing at Otay Mesa and the earlier announcement that the Mexican government was ready to provide $144 million in addition to the $350 million commitment from the U.S. government to improve the broken Tijuana sewage system felt like occasions to celebrate on multiple levels. Beyond the action, it appears the strains on Mexico City-Washington relations that multiplied during President Donald Trump’s four years in the White House have given way to a resumption of the old status quo of neighboring nations that may bicker about issues, including important ones, but that are committed to working together to promote their mutual interests. Those interests include the successful U.S.-Mexico trade relationship, which saw sales of a record $661 billion in goods in 2021 — paced in many ways by the binational San Diego-Tijuana economy. This upbeat view was on display amid these two developments as local and state politicians heaped praise on their Mexican counterparts and spoke of a bright future ahead. … ” Read more from the San Diego Union-Tribune here: Editorial: San Diego-Tijuana border access, sewage cleanup sound promising, but we’ve heard it before
Along the Colorado River …
Anxiety grows over Colorado River crisis
“Imperial Valley farmers who have senior water rights on the severely depleted Colorado River say emergency water delivery cuts ordered last week by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation do not go far enough to achieve the agency’s goal of conserving water for the river’s future sustainability. The new restrictions aren’t directed at agriculture in the Imperial Valley. Yet fears mount that farmers, who are already cutting back their water use, could lose critical irrigation supplies if an accord on 2023 water diversions isn’t reached for multiple states and agencies relying on the river. “Two months ago, (bureau officials) said they needed 2 million acre-feet to 4 million acre-feet to solve the problem, in addition to the tier cuts,” said Imperial County farmer Ronnie Leimgruber, who farms in the Imperial Irrigation District and is based in Holtville. “They’re kicking the can down the road, allowing junior water-right holders to overrun their allocations, and this exacerbates the problem.” ... ” Read more from Ag Alert here: Anxiety grows over Colorado River crisis
City utilities in the Colorado River basin want to conserve more water. Can that make a difference?
“Some utilities that draw water from the Colorado River said they will start conserving more in light of the region’s shrinking supply. A group of seven water authorities that serve cities in Colorado, Nevada, and California outlined their plans in a letter to the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation on Wednesday. Cities in the Colorado River basin often tout their ability to reduce per capita water use, as many have been forced to stretch a finite quantity of water across rapidly growing populations. However, conservation in cities is unlikely to make a substantial change to the region’s supply-demand imbalance, because the agricultural sector still uses nearly 80% of the river’s supply. … ” Read more from KUNC here: City utilities in the Colorado River basin want to conserve more water. Can that make a difference?
How Colorado River Basin tribes are managing water amid historic drought
“Amid historic drought in the Colorado River Basin, the Gila River Indian Community is taking a drastic step to protect their own water resources. In a statement last week, Governor Stephen Roe Lewis announced the tribe—located just south of Phoenix—would stop voluntarily contributing water to an important state reservoir. “We cannot continue to put the interests of all others above our own when no other parties seem committed to the common goal of a cooperative basin-wide agreement,” the statement reads. Since 2021, Lake Mead, a crucial water supply for the region, has been boosted by voluntary water contributions from the Gila River Indian Community and the Colorado River Indian Tribes. … ” Read more from Grist here: How Colorado River Basin tribes are managing water amid historic drought
Sisolak calls on feds to step up river basin management, but ‘no need’ to slow growth
“Nevada Democratic Gov. Steve Sisolak called on states along the Colorado River and the federal government to do more to conserve water in response to a worsening drought in the West. On Wednesday, during a tour of Southern Nevada Water Authority’s low lake level pumping station at Lake Mead, Sisolak echoed statements made earlier this week by Democratic Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, who demanded immediate federal action on the Colorado River water crisis as Nevada faces its second year of mandatory water cuts. “Our State has been preparing for this moment for decades – we’ve been a leader in water conservation and innovative technology,” Sisolak said. … ” Read more from the Nevada Current here: Sisolak calls on feds to step up river basin management, but ‘no need’ to slow growth
Interstate water brawl leaves cities in lurch
“In the West, whiskey is for drinking; water is for fighting. Arizona residents felt the reality of that maxim on Aug. 15 as several Western states announced that two months of closed door negotiations to cut an emergency 12% to 25% from next year’s Colorado River withdrawals had yielded bupkus. The Bureau of Reclamation in June demanded the deep cuts to bolster the amount of water in Lakes Powell and Mead, which have been dropping faster than predicted in recent years amid long-term drought and warming climate. About a third of Arizona’s annual water supplies come from those reservoirs. … ” Read more from the East Valley Tribune here: Interstate water brawl leaves cities in lurch
Commentary: What must happen to save the Colorado River, now that the feds aren’t stepping in
Opinion columnist Joanna Allhands writes, “How are we supposed to save Lake Mead and Lake Powell now? Eight weeks of negotiations didn’t get us anywhere near the 2 million to 4 million acre-feet of additional water conservation that must happen in 2023 to keep the nation’s two largest reservoirs on life support. The federal Bureau of Reclamation, which oversees operation of the lakes, declined to offer any additional deadlines for new plans, after the seven states that receive Colorado River water were unable to agree on anything. It also backed away from the threat it made in June of dictating cuts if states couldn’t save enough water. For now, all actions are voluntary. That’s a mistake. But if these are the cards we’re dealt, what needs to happen now? ... ” Read more from the Arizona Republic here: Commentary: What must happen to save the Colorado River, now that the feds aren’t stepping in
Colorado River Crisis: Can the lifeline to the West be saved?
“Known for its incredible beauty as it carves through Colorado’s central mountains, the Colorado River and its tributaries are a crucial water source vital to 40 million people. “I would say there is not a single resource that is more important than the Colorado River in our state,” Andy Mueller, general manager of the Colorado River District, said. “Every sector of our economy depends on having an adequate water supply.” … But year after year, the powerhouse of a river is less powerful producing less water and threatening to forever change the lives and businesses who rely on its touch. … ” Read more from Denver’s Channel 31 here: Colorado River Crisis: Can the lifeline to the West be saved?
Arizona’s housing crisis goes hand-in-hand with the state’s water and heat crises
“A recent study from the National Low Income Housing Coalition ranked Arizona among the five worst states for affordable housing, with just 26 available options for every 100 extremely low income households. Amid this crisis, state legislators met Wednesday with experts to discuss the environmental challenges to increasing the supply of affordable housing in Arizona — with an eye toward finding sustainable and efficient solutions. This was the fourth meeting of a housing supply study committee established in April, after a failed attempt to resolve the housing shortage by circumventing zoning regulations for faster developments led to calls for further legislative investigation of the issue. ... ” Read more from Arizona Mirror here: Arizona’s housing crisis goes hand-in-hand with the state’s water and heat crises
In national water news today …
A simple method for destroying ‘forever chemicals’ and making water safe
“If you’re despairing at recent reports that Earth’s water sources have been thoroughly infested with hazardous human-made chemicals called PFAS that can last for thousands of years, making even rainwater unsafe to drink, there’s a spot of good news. Chemists at UCLA and Northwestern University have developed a simple way to break down almost a dozen types of these nearly indestructible “forever chemicals” at relatively low temperatures with no harmful byproducts. In a paper published today in the journal Science, the researchers show that in water heated to just 176 to 248 degrees Fahrenheit, common, inexpensive solvents and reagents severed molecular bonds in PFAS that are among the strongest known and initiated a chemical reaction that “gradually nibbled away at the molecule” until it was gone, said UCLA distinguished research professor and co-corresponding author Kendall Houk. … ” Read more from UCLA here: A simple method for destroying ‘forever chemicals’ and making water safe
What’s for dinner? Protein — and its large water footprint
“When it comes to the question of “what’s for dinner?” protein is typically at the center of the meal. Production and consumption statistics show that, for a majority of people, protein generally means meat, but it also increasingly includes other non-animal proteins like beans and quinoa. This reflects the fact that, as of 2018, 8% of those surveyed in the United States identified as either vegetarian or vegan. Even as that shift has happened, however, America’s fixation on protein has not waned. From burgers to chicken, lentils to veggie nuggets, protein — especially from animal products — manages to stay at the center of our plates. In a culture that obsesses over weight loss and aspirational fitness trends, high protein diets are always in vogue, but it is not always true that the average person needs more of it. According to the World Resources Institute, Americans are eating far more than the 51 grams of protein per day that most adults need. So why does it matter if we’re over-consuming protein? … ” Read more from Salon here: What’s for dinner? Protein — and its large water footprint
Cigarette butts: how the no 1 most littered objects are choking our coasts
“Some count long stretches of powdery white sand, others are fringed by dramatic cliffs. But no matter the beach or its location, there’s little escape from the blight that plagues many of them: cigarette butts. Spain’s nearly 5,000 miles of coastline are no exception. “On beaches where smoking is allowed, unfortunately cigarette butts continue to rank as the most found waste product and the one with the most significant impact,” says Inés Sabanés, a Spanish lawmaker with the Más País–Equo coalition. The coalition was the driving force behind a new legal framework that came into effect in April, which allows local councils to ban smoking on their beaches and impose fines of up to €2,000 (£1,700). … ” Read more from The Guardian here: Cigarette butts: how the no 1 most littered objects are choking our coasts
Also on Maven’s Notebook today …
NOTICE: August 23 Weekly Update on Curtailment Status of Water Rights and Claims in the Delta Watershed
TRAINING: Interagency Ecological Program Fall 2022 In-Person Training Opportunities
EVENT: Invitation to Fall DSP Workshop: Advancing Interdisciplinary Research
ANNOUNCEMENT: Salmon Tag Recovery Request
