DAILY DIGEST, 9/22: Satisfying the thirst of almonds while the wells of the people that harvest them run dry; Turning tomatoes into drinking water; A ‘fourth dry year’ likely; and more …

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On the calendar today …

• MEETING: Delta Stewardship Council beginning at 9am.  Agenda items include Delta Lead Scientist report, Delta Watermaster quarterly update, and a workshop on the draft amendments to administrative procedures governing appeals.  Click here for the meeting notice and remote access instructions.
• PUBLIC HEARING: Delta Conveyance Project Draft EIR from 12pm to 2pm.  This is the second of three public hearings.  Join Zoom meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88236180216?pwd=99fG75btij8-A1UBxwilsfsS57UXBC.1
• WEBINAR: Sonoma County well-drilling ordinance from 4pm to 5pm:  Permit Sonoma’s proposal to the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors to enact new standards for drilling wells.  The webinar will be offered on Zoom (here). Featuring a panel of experts and a Q&A period, it will be streamed on the county’s Facebook page in English and on its YouTube channel in Spanish.

In California water news today …

California’s water emergency: Satisfying the thirst of almonds while the wells of the people that harvest them run dry

“Nature has a way of telling people when their wells are running dry.  In California’s Central Valley, where 40% of the fresh fruits, nuts and other produce consumed across America are grown, an increasing number of residents are getting the warning sign. “The sand came through our washing machine and through the regular faucets,” said a man who lives in the tiny Fresno County town of Riverdale who asked that Forbes not use his name.  …  In just the past month, as California temperatures soared during a drought so severe some experts say it hasn’t been this parched in 1,200 years, about 250 wells, mostly in the state’s bread basket, have gone dry. They’re part of the more than 1,100 California wells that have dried up so far this year, a 60% increase from 2021. While that may not seem like a lot, given that California has 274,000 wells, it’s an ominous sign and a personal tragedy for the one million Californians who struggle for clean water. In many cases, it also pits hugely important agricultural producers, who rely on underground water for their crops, against their own workers, who need it to drink. ... ”  Read more from Forbes here: California’s water emergency: Satisfying the thirst of almonds while the wells of the people that harvest them run dry

Ranchers’ rebellion: the Californians breaking water rules in a punishing drought

“Before Rick Lemos and the other directors of the Shasta River Water Association broke the law, they made a decision that under most circumstances might be considered unusual: they sent a letter to authorities spelling out exactly what they intended to do.  The California regulation they would defy was an emergency order in response to the state’s punishing drought, in effect forbidding ranchers and farmers in this stretch of land near the Oregon border from diverting water from the Shasta River as they had done for more than a century.  The association, the letter said, would turn on their pumps.  The ranchers collected water for a week, risking fines of up to $500 a day. But regulators, environmental groups and Indigenous nations in the region say the diversions came at a much greater cost: a risk to fish, including protected salmon species, for whom the river is a crucial habitat. … ”  Read the full story at The Guardian here: Ranchers’ rebellion: the Californians breaking water rules in a punishing drought

Agriculture hails court victory, amid ‘slow erosion’ of water rights

“A court ruling last week over senior water rights came as welcome news to agricultural interests that have long battled the State Water Resources Control Board over drought curtailments. Yet while the decision sets a limit on the board’s authority, the agency retains several regulatory tools for curtailing the diversions, and lawmakers could add more.  California’s Sixth Appellate District Court of Appeal ruled the board lacks jurisdiction under the state water code “to curtail an entire class of pre-1914 appropriative water rights.” Farmers obtained them before California began regulating water rights in 1913 and have fought hard to preserve them ever since.  California Farm Bureau President Jamie Johansson viewed the rights as critical to communities, agriculture and the nation’s food supply. ... ”  Read more from Agri-Pulse here: Agriculture hails court victory, amid ‘slow erosion’ of water rights

Desalinating seawater sounds easy, but there are cheaper and more sustainable ways to meet people’s water needs

“Coastal urban centers around the world are urgently looking for new, sustainable water sources as their local supplies become less reliable. In the U.S., the issue is especially pressing in California, which is coping with a record-setting, multidecadal drought.  California Gov. Gavin Newsom recently released a US$8 billion plan for coping with a shrinking water supply. Along with water conservation, storage and recycling, it includes desalination of more seawater.  Ocean desalination, which turns salt water into fresh, clean water, has an intuitive appeal as a water supply strategy for coastal cities. The raw supply of salt water is virtually unlimited and reliable.  Nonetheless, current evidence shows that even in coastal cities, ocean desalination may not be the best or even among the best options to address water shortfalls. Here are the main issues that communities evaluating this option should consider. … ”  Read more from The Conversation here:  Desalinating seawater sounds easy, but there are cheaper and more sustainable ways to meet people’s water needs

A ‘fourth dry year’ likely in California, officials say

“California’s reservoirs will enter fall in a slightly better position than last year, but the Golden State should prepare for more dryness, extreme weather events and water quality hazards in 2023, officials say.  The latest climate forecasting update from the Department of Water Resources came Wednesday, just days before the end of the water year, which runs from Oct. 1 to Sept. 30 in California. Officials said some of the state’s biggest reservoirs, including Lake Oroville and Lake Shasta, are slightly more full than they were at the same time last year, but still remain well below average.  Water managers are now preparing for a “fourth dry year,” as well as more unpredictable weather and wildfires associated with climate change, DWR Assistant Deputy Director John Yarbrough said during a meeting of the California Water Commission. … ”  Read more from the LA Times here: A ‘fourth dry year’ likely in California, officials say

SEE ALSO:  Why California will probably see its third drier-than-normal winter in a row, from the San Francisco Chronicle

In the face of drought, hydropower still delivers electricity

“In 2022, a quick internet search for Lake Mead or Lake Powell returns startling images of drying lake beds and parched land.  The megadrought in the Southwestern United States is the driest—and longest—in the last 1,200 years, depleting water reservoir levels to critically low levels over the past 22 years. This persistent drought has policymakers and system planners concerned about the reliability of the electric grid under worsening drought conditions and climbing temperatures. Droughts particularly impact hydroelectric power dams as well as some thermoelectric power plants that require large amounts of water for cooling. But a new report by hydrologists at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) suggests that the relationship between drought and hydroelectric power is more nuanced than it might seem. ... ”  Read more from Pacific Northwest National Labs here: In the face of drought, hydropower still delivers electricity

Researchers take new approach to quantify water use

“Like many other researchers, environmental engineering professors Erin Hestir and Joshua Viers are trying to quantify water use in California’s Central Valley.  The difference is, they are doing it from the sky.  Through NASA’s applied sciences program, their team will leverage the power of Earth-orbiting satellites and drones to gather data with high spatial and temporal resolution and then analyze it to help resource managers make better-informed decisions, particularly around water use in California’s San Joaquin Valley.  They’re collaborating with Point Blue Conservation Science, a nonprofit science team based in the Bay Area. … ” Read more from UC Merced here: Researchers take new approach to quantify water use

Turning tomatoes into drinking water? 2 CA companies are teaming up to make this happen

“Two companies are teaming up to respond to the drought in California by turning the water in tomatoes into drinking water.  Los Banos-based Ingomar Packing Company, a tomato processor, is partnering with Botanical Water Technologies to make this happen.  Tomatoes are made up of about 95% water.  “We’re capturing the condensate that comes from the tomato before they make the tomato sauce or the tomato paste,” said James Rees, chief impact officer of Botanical Water Technologies. “So we put that condensate through our process, and we’re able to create sustainable, clean drinking water.” ... ”  Read more from KABC here: Turning tomatoes into drinking water? 2 CA companies are teaming up to make this happen

Public asks to extend Delta Conveyance EIR review period

“Calls for more time reverberated throughout the first public hearing for the draft environmental impact report (EIR) of the Delta Conveyance Project (DCP), along with continued pleas to cancel the project in consideration of Bay Delta communities and ecosystems. While the public review period will end on Oct. 27, many speakers at the Sept. 13 hearing characterized the provided three months as insufficient to digest the EIR, which spans thousands of pages over 39 chapters and touches on topics such as water quality, seismicity, recreation, socioeconomics and tribal cultural resources. “Given the length of the document and the depth that interested parties want to put into the examination of the EIR documents, allotting 90 days for interested parties to review such an extensive and detailed document is not nearly enough time,” said Kasil Willie, staff attorney for Save California Salmon. … ”  Read more from the Livermore Independent here: Public asks to extend Delta Conveyance EIR review period

Extreme drought causing home foundation issues in western U.S.

“If you’ve ever noticed cracks in or around your home, foundation experts, like Rick Donohoe with Groundworks Colorado, say might be time to call a professional.  “Your largest investment for most people is their home,” Donohoe said.  Donohoe is a certified field inspector. He says there are certain signs to look for to see whether the foundation is at risk.  “Cracks in drywall, cracks and mortar joints, cracks in the actual foundation itself,” Donohoe said. “A lot of people can see their foundation if they don’t have a finished basement.” … ”  Read more from Channel 10 here: Extreme drought causing home foundation issues in western U.S.

Podcast: Scientists talk about the looming threat of megaflood in the American west

“California hasn’t seen a megaflood for more than 150 years.  The “Great Flood of 1862″ killed more than 4,000 people — about one percent of the state’s total population.  Now scientists warn these mega-floods could very well happen in our lifetimes along the Pacific coast of North America, including California.  The problem: climate change.  Dr. Daniel Swain is a climate scientist at the Institute of the Environment and Sustainability at UCLA. He spoke at the event today.  “Last summer, some very localized, localized, but quite extreme flooding in places that are normally very dry like Death Valley. And as recently as this past week in the interior southeastern deserts and the Imperial Valley of California. Those are not anywhere near on the spatial scale or magnitude of what happened in 1862. We are getting hints.” … ” Read more and listen to podcast from Annenburg Media here: Podcast: Scientists talk about the looming threat of megaflood in the American west

Is weed greener indoors or out?

“Although cannabis has a reputation as an environmentally-friendly plant, indoor cannabis cultivation demands significant energy to maintain precise light and temperature requirements. Last year, Colorado State University researchers led by Hailey Summers published the first study offering insight into greenhouse gas emissions of growing cannabis indoors.  The researchers analyzed the energy requirements of indoor cannabis production across 1,000 hypothetical U.S. growing locations, using a life-cycle assessment (accounting for the emissions of all material inputs like fertilizer). They found that greenhouse gas emissions range from 2,283 to 5,184 kilograms of CO2-equivalent per kilogram of dried flower, and are not uniform across the United States. … ”  Read more from Knee Deep Times here: Is weed greener indoors or out?

The no-tech way to preserve California’s state grass

“Though it is disappearing, California’s official state grass has the ability to live for 100 years or more. New research demonstrates that sheep and cattle can help it achieve that longevity. Purple needlegrass once dominated the state’s grasslands, serving as food for Native Americans and for more than 330 terrestrial creatures. Today, California has lost most of its grasslands, and the needlegrass occupies only one tenth of what remains.  It is drought resistant, promotes the health of native wildflowers by attracting beneficial root fungi, burns more slowly than non-native grasses and speeds the postfire recovery of burned lands. For these and other reasons, many who work toward habitat restoration hope to preserve the needlegrass. ... ”  Read more from UC Riverside here: The no-tech way to preserve California’s state grass

Former top Nunes, Valadao aide launches new firm eyeing water, natural resources policy

“Two top California policy mavens are starting up a new political advisory firm, the RBW Group.  California natives Cole Rojewski and Todd Willens joined together announced the new federal affairs and strategic communications practice Wednesday.  Rojewski was one of the longest serving chiefs of staff to House Appropriations Committee Ranking Member Kay Granger (R–TX).  Granger, a likely lock for the House Appropriations Committee gavel if Congress changes hands to the Republicans in January, has notoriously had difficulty keeping chiefs of staff.  Rojewski, who is best known around the San Joaquin Valley as a top advisory to former Rep. Devin Nunes (R–Tulare) and chief of staff to Rep. David Valadao (R–Hanford), became one of a handful of chiefs of staff to stick with the Granger, top Republican appropriator in the House, for more than a year. … ”  Read more from the San Joaquin Valley Sun here: Former top Nunes, Valadao aide launches new firm eyeing water, natural resources policy

Fishing in California rivers, streams, and creeks? Follow the new statewide advisory for safe eating guidelines

“The California Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) has issued a new statewide fish advisory that offers safe-eating advice for fish caught in California rivers, streams and creeks without site-specific advice. With the issuance of the advisory, OEHHA now offers fish consumption advice covering every water body in California.  The new advisory is based on the levels of mercury and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) found in fish collected from more than 700 sites, including popular rivers frequented by anglers all over California. These include the Los Angeles, Santa Ana and Kern rivers in Southern California; the Merced River in Central California; the Owens, Truckee and East Walker rivers in Eastern California; and the Klamath, Smith, McCloud and Eel rivers in Northern California.  This is the first time that safe-eating guidelines have been provided for these rivers. The advisory is intended to be a guide for eating fish caught in these rivers, along with other rivers, streams and creeks that are not covered by a specific advisory. … ”  Read more from the OEHHA here: Fishing in California rivers, streams, and creeks? Follow the new statewide advisory for safe eating guidelines

California appeals court rules the bumblebee meets same endangered species criteria as fish

“A California appeals court ruled on the side of the state on Wednesday that the bumblebee falls under the same category as a fish under the state’s Endangered Species Act.  The Third District Court of Appeals ruled that bumblebees, which are a non-aquatic invertebrate, can be listed as endangered under the California Endangered Species Act because it applies to fish, and “invertebrates” can be included within what the Court deems as the category of fish. That means they agree with the California Fish and Game Commission and the state’s Department of Fish and Wildlife — and interest group intervenors Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation, Defenders of Wildlife and Center for Food Safety — that the Commission may list any invertebrate as an endangered or threatened species, if it meets the Act’s requirements for being threatened. … ”  Read more from the Courthouse News here: California appeals court rules the bumblebee meets same endangered species criteria as fish

‘Not even close’ | Despite September rain, Cal Fire says fire season is far from over in 2022

“The rainfall was a welcome sight, especially for those living in the towns threatened by the Mosquito Fire in Placer County and El Dorado County. The rare September showers became a game changer for firefighters in finally being able to stop an out of control wildfire from destroying more property. After several days of on and off again rain showers, the question some wonder is “Is fire season for this year over?” “In a word, no, not even close,” said Cal Fire Battalion Chief Isaac Sanchez.  Sanchez says it will take a series of storms before the fire season takes a breather. He says vegetation state-wide remains very dry because of years of drought. ... ”  Read more from Channel 10 here: ‘Not even close’ | Despite September rain, Cal Fire says fire season is far from over in 2022

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In commentary today …

Toxic chemicals are in our clothing. California can stop that

Rebecca Fuoco, science communications officer at the Green Science Policy Institute, and Arlene Blum is the founder and executive director of the Green Science Policy Institute and a research associate in the Cell and Molecular Biology Department at UC Berkeley, write, “Most parents take extra precautions to protect their children from toxic chemicals — from locking cabinets of cleaning supplies to scrutinizing ingredient labels. But some toxic chemicals are near impossible to limit their exposure to.  California can change that.  Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, known as PFAS, are a class of over 9,000 industrial compounds that are added to everyday products to repel stains, water or oil. They might be in your favorite rain jacket, the nonstick pan you flip pancakes in or your waterproof mascara. Commonly referred to as “forever chemicals,” they do not break down in the environment — ever. And eventually, they end up in our food and drinking water. … ”  Read more from the San Francisco Chronicle here: Toxic chemicals are in our clothing. California can stop that

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In regional water news and commentary today …

NORTH COAST

Klamath Marsh National Wildlife Refuge to add 3,200 acres

“The Klamath Marsh National Wildlife Refuge near Chiloquin will add nearly 3,200 acres of new marsh and grasslands for expanding key habitat for migrating birds.  A $4.77 million grant from the U.S. Department of Interior will expand the 40,000-acre refuge, which provides key habitat for various bird species that either reside there or stop over while migrating along the Pacific Flyway.  The marshlands are considered important resting, nesting and feeding areas for migrating waterfowl, as well as water habitat for rare sturgeon, suckers and bull trout. … ”  Read more from the Oregon Mail Tribune here: Klamath Marsh National Wildlife Refuge to add 3,200 acres

Salmon are nosing at the riverbanks trying to escape the Klamath River

“Tribal scientists had hoped that the incoming fall run of adult chinook salmon would escape the devastating effects of August’s debris slide on the Klamath River, which killed tens of thousands of fish. But they were disappointed. The salmon, which were gathering at the estuary at the time of the debris slide, migrated upstream early to spawn and found themselves trapped in toxic waters.  “The river really hasn’t cleared up. It’s still really muddy,” said Craig Tucker, the Karuk Tribe’s natural resource policy consultant, weeks after a late July thunderstorm sloughed ash and debris into the water, reducing oxygen levels to zero for two consecutive nights and smothering everything in the water. In late August, the fall run of adult salmon entered the lower Klamath and started dying as well. The fish that did make it upriver exhibited unusual high-stress behavior, such as nosing at the riverbanks in search of a way out of the sediment-heavy water. … ”  Read more from the High Country News here: Salmon are nosing at the riverbanks trying to escape the Klamath River

Yurok chair testifies on Yurok Lands Act

“On Wednesday, September 14, Yurok Chairman Joseph L. James informed the US Natural Resources’ Subcommittee for Indigenous Peoples of the United States about the critical importance of the Yurok lands act (H.R.7581). Introduced by US Congress Member Jared Huffman, the bill seeks to revise the reservation boundary line to include reacquired tribal land and facilitate the transfer of the Yurok Experimental Forest back to the Tribe, which lost more than 98 percent of its ancestral territory in the 1800s. The bill will also designate Bald Hills Road as the Yurok Scenic Byway. “The passage of the Yurok lands act will benefit our community for many generations to come,” said Joseph L. James, the chairman of the Yurok Tribe. “In addition to giving us a portion of our land back, the act will strengthen our ability to sovereignly manage our landscape in accordance with the Yurok Constitution. We ask Congress to be a part of the solution and pass the legislation.” … ”  Read more from the Del Norte Triplicate here: Yurok chair testifies on Yurok Lands Act

Crescent City explores potential recycled water program, decides it’s currently not feasible

“If Crescent City could get a forgivable loan to finance the construction costs, recycling using recycled water to irrigate two of its parks could be doable, a grant-funded study found.  But engineers from Kennedy Jenks stated that unless an increase in potable water rates prompt the city to seek irrigation alternatives, it doesn’t make financial sense for the to pursue recycled water.  They suggested Crescent City revisit the issue in about 10 years.  “Recycled water requires a lot of institutional, regulatory and technical effort by city staff and consultants,” Water Resources Engineer Sachi Itagaki told City Councilors on Monday. “The city may choose to revisit recycled water feasibility in the future if the potable supply becomes severely restricted — you have a great supply from the Smith River and the groundwater basin around there.” … ”  Read more from Wild Rivers Outpost here: Crescent City explores potential recycled water program, decides it’s currently not feasible

MOUNTAIN COUNTIES

As rain quiets activity on the Mosquito Fire, water managers in Placer County prepare for years of water quality challenges

“This week’s rain has been a welcome sight for those dealing with the impacts of the Mosquito Fire.  The early season moisture has helped to significantly dampen fire activity over the last several days.  But as that rain runs down the steep canyons and into Placer County’s many waterways, ash and debris from the fire’s burn area can easily end up in the water supply system.  Andy Fecko, general manager of the Placer County Water Agency, said plans to keep that water supply safe began the night the fire was first reported near Oxbow Reservoir. … ”  Read more from KCRA here: As rain quiets activity on the Mosquito Fire, water managers in Placer County prepare for years of water quality challenges

Why so many trees are dying in Lake Tahoe

“There’s a spot on Highway 89, driving southbound down the West Shore, where the road opens up to a gorgeous view of the lake and a forested ridgeline. That’s where I noticed it first — the sheer number of burnt orange trees punctuating the forest green landscape. White fir and red fir trees are dying at a fast clip in the Lake Tahoe Basin, the U.S. Forest Service confirmed. Rita Mustatia, forest silviculturist for the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit, said the trend is reaching “higher levels than we’ve seen in the past,” and it’s most noticeable on the forested slopes at higher elevations near Fallen Leaf Lake and around North Lake Tahoe. Why are trees dying at such a high rate in Lake Tahoe? ... ”  Read more from SF Gate here: Why so many trees are dying in Lake Tahoe

Storage ‘crucial’ for American River Basin

“The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation has released a study on the American River Basin that shows how changing climate could affect future water supplies.  The study projects increases in temperatures of 4-7 degrees Fahrenheit by the end of the 21st century, depending on the season.  Hydrologic impacts show an increase in runoff during fall and winter while spring and summer showed a decrease in runoff.  Warmer temperatures are driving earlier snow melts in winter rather than summer and the lost volume of runoff will affect water operations, said U.S. Bureau of Reclamation Hydrologic Engineer Ian Ferguson during a virtual press conference last week. … ”  Continue reading at the Georgetown Gazette here: Storage ‘crucial’ for American River Basin

View wild chinook salmon on the Yuba River with SYRCL

“Registration is open for the South Yuba River Citizens League’s (SYRCL) 2022 Salmon Expeditions on Sunday, October 16th and Saturday, October 29th. Join SYRCL’s River Science staff, trained naturalists, and river guides from H2O Adventures for a float trip down the lower Yuba to see spawning salmon. The day on a raft includes opportunities to learn about the Yuba River ecosystem, how mining has impacted the river and the indigenous people of the area, and how SYRCL is working to protect salmon on the Yuba. During the Expedition, you’ll also get to view one of SYRCL’s Lower Yuba River restoration projects at Hammon Bar and have a chance to explore the Yuba Goldfields. … ”  Read more from Yuba Net here: View wild chinook salmon on the Yuba River with SYRCL

SACRAMENTO VALLEY

Water wasters under fire: Complaints over Sacramento water misuse more than doubles in past year

“As the state’s water worries continue, more Californians are getting serious about saving water. In Sacramento, the city said more people are turning off the tap and keeping an eye on their neighbors.  “People are definitely more aware, they know what to do and what not to do, how to use water properly,” said Carlos Eliason with the city of Sacramento Department of Utilities.  New numbers reveal that when it comes to water misuse, complaints from the public have more than doubled. From July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, the city received 3,051 complaints about water misuse. The year before that, 1,170 complaints were received. … ”  Read more from the Sacramento Valley here: Water wasters under fire: Complaints over Sacramento water misuse more than doubles in past year

Roseville Electric Utility customers could see 11% increase in 2023

“Roseville Electric Utility is proposing an 8% energy surcharge in addition to an already-approved 3% increase starting in January.  The 8% charge would be in effect from Jan. 1, 2023, through Dec. 31, 2024. If approved, customers would see an 11% increase in 2023. “These are challenging times for the electric utility industry, especially here in California. Our state is grappling with unprecedented drought and a substantial reduction in hydroelectric resources in addition to skyrocketing fuel prices,” Roseville Electric Utility wrote on its website. … ”  Read more from Channel 10 here: Roseville Electric Utility customers could see 11% increase in 2023

NAPA/SONOMA

Santa Rosa earthquake unleashed higher flow in Mark West Creek

“The earthquake that jolted Santa Rosa last week apparently shook loose a water source beneath Mark West Creek, boosting the drought-depleted stream level by about six inches in the hours following the temblor and bumping the current flow to more than seven times its previous rate.  John Macaulay witnessed it happening through a window from the second floor of his home in the Larkfield-Wikiup area north of town. He walked down to the creek behind his house, where he was surprised to see the creek swell as he looked on. … ”  Read more from The Paradise: Santa Rosa earthquake unleashed higher flow in Mark West Creek

Early storm kneecaps, but doesn’t eliminate fire danger

“The risk of major wildfire across Sonoma County and the north coast is just about nil for the next week or so. That’s according to a federal inter-agency weather and fire forecasting agency. Recent early season rains drenched some areas, and quenched others. But, fire season isn’t quite over.  Brent Wachter is a Fire Meteorologist with Predictive Services, a federal inter-agency group that tracks plant and soil moisture, along with weather, providing intelligence to CalFire, US Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management, among others. He said the dynamics have a lot to do with timing. … ”  Read more from Northern California Public Media here: Early storm kneecaps, but doesn’t eliminate fire danger

St. Helena mayor complains that landfill is a wildfire hazard

“The mayor of St. Helena is alleging that a landfill that sits in the hills between his city and Calistoga poses risks of wildfire, explosion and contamination in a lengthy complaint filed with the Napa County District Attorney’s Office.  In his 38-page consumer complaint, Mayor Geoff Ellsworth claims there is a “significant and unnecessary fire and wildfire risk” at the Clover Flat Landfill, owned by Upper Valley Disposal Services.  In response, the company and a key county official said the landfill is in complete compliance with all its regulatory obligations.  The complaint is the latest salvo in Ellsworth’s years-long criticism of UVDS operations that he has aired repeatedly in public forums and local news outlets. … ”  Read more from CBS News here: St. Helena mayor complains that landfill is a wildfire hazard

BAY AREA

On the enigmatic ‘flying potato’, neither plant nor animal, that caused the Bay’s biggest harmful algal bloom in history

“At times this summer, the shores of San Francisco Bay looked like a piscine battlefront — strewn with dead white and green sturgeon, leopard sharks, striped bass, bat rays, smelt, anchovies, and other fish. It started in late July in Alameda and expanded throughout the entire Bay. By late August, some 10,000 fish had reportedly died at Oakland’s Lake Merritt alone. Where the killer algae bloomed, the water was dull and rust-colored. One resident was quoted saying “the end was near”. A local scientist called the event a “wildfire in the water”. The murk came from the sheer density of the culprit, which was multiplying in the millions: a miniscule organism called Heterosigma akashiwo — akashiwo means “red tide” in Japanese. This wasn’t H. akashiwo’s first star turn. … But now that H. akashiwo has managed to cause the biggest harmful algal bloom in the Bay’s history, scientists are scrambling to learn more. … ”  Read more from Bay Nature here: On the enigmatic ‘flying potato’, neither plant nor animal, that caused the Bay’s biggest harmful algal bloom in history

Why fog is so vital to life in California

“Coastal fog isn’t unique to the California coast, but few places in the world are so deeply linked with the ghostly meteorological phenomenon. Even the emoji for “foggy” shows what appears to be the Golden Gate Bridge shrouded in clouds.  My colleague John Branch recently wrote about San Francisco’s fog and concerns that it may be fading as the world warms. A reduction in fog could harm California’s agriculture industry and its oldest trees, and could change the identity of the Bay Area.  John spoke to me about his article from his home about 20 miles north of the Golden Gate Bridge, which he believes may be “the most famous foggy place on the planet.” We talked about why he wanted to report on fog, the role it plays in California’s ecology and what he believes is San Francisco’s soundtrack of the summer. Here’s our conversation, lightly edited for clarity … ”  Read more from the New York Times here: Why fog is so vital to life in California

Marin rain bolsters water supply, eases fire risk

“The rain that fell on Marin in recent days has provided a small but welcome boost to local reservoirs and dampened the landscape after a record-breaking heat wave.  Rainfall in September is not unusual, but the amount of rain that fell over the weekend was much more than average for this time of year, according to Marin’s two largest water suppliers.  About 1.5 inches of rain fell in areas of the Mount Tamalpais watershed, which is more than three times the average amount the Marin Municipal Water District normally records from the start of July through this time of year.  The rain added a nominal 38 acre-feet of water to the district’s reservoirs, which can hold up to nearly 80,000 acre-feet. An acre-foot is about 326,000 gallons, or about half the volume of an Olympic-sized swimming pool. ... ”  Read more from the Marin Independent Journal here: Marin rain bolsters water supply, eases fire risk

Suisun City pumps up resiliency

“On a warm Sunday afternoon in late August, Sustainable Solano’s Alex Lunine and two local high school interns led a flood walk in Suisun City. Lunine carried a four-foot-long wooden pole marked by one-foot increments. Although he never referred to the pole during the walk, the visible marks loomed large as he explained that sea levels are predicted to rise between six and ten inches by 2030 and 13 to 23 inches by 2050. The Adapting to Rising Tides Flood Explorer Map shows that, unless action is taken, 24 inches of sea level rise will flood much of the eastern and southern parts of the city. Suisun City is particularly vulnerable to rising waters, an issue first covered by KneeDeep Times in a January 2022 article called “Suisun is No Island.” The community is bisected by Suisun Slough, a wide waterway that terminates in a downtown basin surrounded by a flood wall. The city is also surrounded on three sides by marshes, a vulnerability that may also serve as part of the solution. … ”  Read more from Knee Deep Times here: Suisun City pumps up resiliency

Drought, new dams, discord dominate election for Santa Clara Valley Water District

“Over the past two years, Silicon Valley’s largest water provider, the Santa Clara Valley Water District, has had a long list of challenges and setbacks.  In 2020, the federal government ordered its largest dam, Anderson, near Morgan Hill, drained for earthquake repairs. The price tag has since doubled to $1.2 billion. The district’s plan to build another big dam near Pacheco Pass also doubled in cost, and that $2.5 billion project has been hit with a lawsuit and funding shortfalls.  As the drought worsened, the district has pushed for conservation and spent tens of millions of dollars to buy water from Sacramento Valley farmers at high prices. The agency’s 7-member board has clashed on multiple issues; one board member, Gary Kremen, temporarily stepped aside as chairman this year amid an investigation into whether he bullied staff members; and the agency spent $3.2 million this spring on a ballot measure to extend board members’ term limits that critics, including the San Jose City Council, called deceptively worded. … ”  Read more from the San Jose Mercury News here: Drought, new dams, discord dominate election for Santa Clara Valley Water District

Pleasanton: Water project paused amid new regulations

“The city has paused its Treatment and Wells Rehabilitation Project for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), or forever chemicals, in order to take stock of a changing state regulatory system and a recent period of historically high inflation. City councilmembers, mindful of time-limited funding options and the importance of the city’s groundwater sources, agreed to the pause with some hesitation at their Sept. 6 meeting. “I’m not going to agree to pause it unless all five of us (councilmembers) say this is our number one priority and everything else, unless it’s health or safety for our residents, takes a back seat,” said Councilmember Kathy Narum prior to the Sept. 6 vote.  The council voted unanimously to pause the project. ... ”  Read more from the Livermore Independent here: Pleasanton: Water project paused amid new regulations

New water funding could recycle into Coastside

“To combat an increasingly hotter and drier atmosphere, state officials are looking to fund new water projects that could kickstart a recycled water system on the coast. With a dwindling snowpack and fewer available resources, researchers from the Department of Water Resources project that climate change impact could reduce the state’s water supply by up to 10 percent by 2040. That’s about 6 million to 9 million acre-feet of water supply. For comparison, the Shasta Reservoir holds 4.5 million acre-feet. To make up for losses, the state is looking at financing major water projects. Last month Gov. Gavin Newsom announced a slew of moves to increase water supply and adapt to more extreme weather patterns caused by climate change through 2040. One of the biggest ways it could do that is through recycled water. … ”  Read more from the Half Moon Bay Review here: New water funding could recycle into Coastside

CENTRAL COAST

Marina Coast desalination plant among solutions discussed at Monterey County water forum

“Officials are exploring the idea of bringing a desalination plant back online to help solve the area’s water supply problem.  The suggestion came as the Monterey County Board of Supervisors held a regional water forum and welcomed officials from various water agencies in the county as well as representatives from the state and federal governments in an effort to collaborate and find solutions to regional water supply problems.  “I’m so pleased that we have so many of our partners here in the room today and on Zoom as well for this important conversation about the water issues that are facing us here in the county,” Supervisor Mary Adams said. “While the water issues that are facing us are not new, and while conversations such as those that have happened in the past, there is a renewed sense of urgency to get out of our silos, to leave our guns at the door and forge a path forward with numerous stakeholders and partners.” … ”  Read more from the Monterey Herald here: Marina Coast desalination plant among solutions discussed at Monterey County water forum

Environmental group reaches settlement with the City of Lompoc over pollution from sewage plant

“An environmental group and a Central Coast city have reached a settlement over toxic chemical discharges from the community’s wastewater system into some of the region’s waterways.  The Environmental Defense Center claims that for more than two decades, Lompoc’s wastewater treatment facility has been dumping contaminated water into San Miguelito Creek, and the Santa Ynez River.  The EDC filed suit in 2021, seeking to block the discharges. A court ruled that the city was liable for more than 80 violations of the federal Clean Water Act. … ”  Read more from KCLU here: Environmental group reaches settlement with the City of Lompoc over pollution from sewage plant

Carpinteria:  Groundwater fee appeal meetings scheduled September, October

“The Carpinteria Groundwater Sustainability Agency (GSA) will hold public hearings on Sept. 28 and Oct. 12, requesting public input on its new groundwater fee appeal policy. The agency’s new policy will allow property owners to appeal the groundwater fee calculations done for their properties. … ”  Read more at Coastal View here: Groundwater fee appeal meetings scheduled September, October

SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY

Residents concerned about proposed biosolid treatment plant in Copperopolis

“Over the past month, residents of Copperopolis have raised concerns over the possibility of a biosolids composting facility being installed at the town’s wastewater treatment plant. This plant is operated by the Calaveras County Water District (CCWD), which has issued an official statement addressing these concerns. A biosolids composting facility takes biosolids and converts them into a material that can be used for fertilizing gardens, crops, and rangelands, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA’s Biosolids Technology Fact Sheet states, “This compost provides large quantities of organic matter and nutrients (such as nitrogen and potassium) to the soil, improves soil texture, and elevates soil cation exchange capacity (an indication of the soil’s ability to hold nutrients), all characteristics of a good organic fertilizer.” … ”  Read more from the Calaveras Enterprise here: Residents concerned about proposed biosolid treatment plant in Copperopolis

Tule River Tribe Water Rights bill introduced

“An effort of more than 50 years to secure federal water rights for the Tule River Reservation has moved one step closer to fruition.  On Tuesday, U.S. Alex Padilla and Dianne Feinstein announced they introduced legislation last week to formally recognize the Tule River Tribe’s reserved water rights.  Senate Bill 4870, which also quantifies the amount of water from the south fork of the Tule River that Tribe has rights to and provides up to $568 million in funding, was referred to the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. The legislation would finalize an effort of more than 50 years by the Tule River Tribe to provide clean drinking water, Feinstein’s office stated. … ”  Read more from the Porterville Recorder here: Tule River Tribe Water Rights bill introduced

Bakersfield has been derelict toward the public on the Kern River, group alleges

“Several public interest groups have issued a direct challenge to Bakersfield over the Kern River alleging the city has not lived up to its responsibilities to address the public trust.  Water Audit California, an advocacy group based in Napa, sent a letter to the Bakersfield Water Resources Department July 27 demanding the city conduct a study of how its diversions from the river are impacting the public trust and determine ways to avoid those impacts.  The letter stated if the city didn’t authorize the study before September 15, Water Audit would sue.  That Sept. 15 deadline has come and gone without a lawsuit but the city did respond in a Sept. 20 letter that it had already begun a “Master Plan” to study how the city can best manage and protect its water, including the city’s slice of the Kern River. … ”  Read more from SJV Water here: Bakersfield has been derelict toward the public on the Kern River, group alleges

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers nearing completion on Lake Isabella Dam project

“After years of studies, the US Army Corps of Engineers started work on the Isabella Dam project in Lake Isabella in 2017.  As many as 300 construction workers a day are on site.  “Phase one was to rebuild an admin facility for the forest service in Kernville and to rebuild their fire station in Lake Isabella,” Bolton, said.   They hope to finish phase two in the Spring of 2023 and the next step should take around a year.  “Phase 3 will consist of three main contracts,” Bolton, said. “We’ll be building a permanent office for our operations staff that inspect and monitor the function of the dam.” … ”  Read more from Bakersfield Now here: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers nearing completion on Lake Isabella Dam project

EASTERN SIERRA

Mono County responds to LADWP’s sharp reduction of water to Long Valley

“In response to Los Angeles Department of Water and Power’s reductions in water allotments to Long Valley grazing leases, the Mono County Board of Supervisors approved a letter drafted by County Counsel requesting “collaboration and communications” going forward.  The dispute goes back to 2018 when LADWP first proposed “dewatering” the 6,000 acres that provides valuable habitat to the bi-state sage grouse in addition to summer grazing for area ranchers. The Appellate Court required an Environmental Impact Report under the California Environmental Quality Act prior to any significant changes to land management. That EIR has yet to be completed. Los Angeles claimed it “was not doing anything new,” rejecting the idea that reducing water allotments from the historical practice of 5 acre-feet of water to 0.7 af was a significant change in the long-standing management of the land. … ”  Read more from the Sierra Wave here: Mono County responds to LADWP’s sharp reduction of water to Long Valley

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Field note: Touring Malibu Creek watershed

“First, a word of advice. Definitely retrace the spawning journey of the Southern steelhead up Malibu Creek in the sweltering grip of a thermal heat belt. Well, maybe not, but without a doubt, things you understand intellectually are felt more keenly in triple digit heat. Things like: Even before a 100-foot dam stood in the way, the steelhead that ran this creek must have been impressive. LA drivers are not joking around. This is a precipitously steep valley. Climate change is real. Water is life.  But I’m getting ahead of myself.  As most reading this know, we have lost 90% of the wild fish that used to navigate our rivers and streams in California. Here on the South Coast, steelhead populations have dwindled into the single digits and extinction is a very real threat. … ”  Read more from Cal Trout here: Field note: Touring Malibu Creek watershed

Lasagna Mulch? Monrovia conservation group helps retired nuns plant drought tolerant landscaping

“In Monrovia, the grounds at Maryknoll Sister’s retirement home is becoming a water saving oasis. The nuns at Maryknoll deciding to get rid of their six acres of grass. The move is saving water during Southern California’s ongoing drought.  “The cry for healing is something we are also responding to.” Sister Arlene Trant, Coordinator Maryknoll Sisters retirement residence.  The sisters are collaborating with the water conservation group Grow Monrovia. Leigh Adams, a professional landscaper, has been helping the nuns remove the grass and replace it will lasagna mulch, a layering technique that involves cardboard and wood chips that attract fungi, which in turn helps stimulate the soil. … ”  Read more from the ABC 7 here: Lasagna Mulch? Monrovia conservation group helps retired nuns plant drought tolerant landscaping

Local software aims to help cut down water use in Newport Beach

“Local software maker Aquatrax is hoping its water conservation program can cut water consumption by up to 10%, and the city of Newport Beach believes it can, and will deliver.  City watershed and conservation specialist Shane Burckle said it already has helped residents and businesses slash water consumption. Newport Beach has paired the Aquatrax software, developed in Irvine, with its other investments in new smart water meters. Now, it’s available to the public.  “We’re trying to communicate with customers and get them conscious about their water use,” said Burckle.  Homeowners and businesses can log into the software and examine a graph that shows water usage with hourly updates. It also compares the usage of the customer to other properties of similar size, and if there’s a spike in how much water has been used. That feature helps the city, and homeowners, pinpoint costly, wasteful leaks. … ”  Read more from Spectrum 1 here: Local software aims to help cut down water use in Newport Beach

Huge patches of red tide seen off several Orange County beaches

“Residents, ocean swimmers and beachgoers have been reporting huge, dark patches floating close to shore at several Orange County beaches.  The swaths of dark water – more commonly known as red tide – were seen off Newport Beach, Crystal Cove State Beach, Laguna Beach and Strand Beach in Dana Point.  The reddish water was about 200 to 300 yards offshore at most of the locations and was first noticed by people on Tuesday night. The color of the water is caused by microscopic algae, known as dinoflagellates, which can “bloom” into dense patches near the surface. When they’re at the surface, they appear red. … ”  Read more from the OC Register here: Huge patches of red tide seen off several Orange County beaches

IMPERIAL/COACHELLA VALLEYS

Jurupa Community Services District sues big chemical makers over contaminants

“The Jurupa Community Services District has joined thousands of other entities nationwide in suing DuPont, 3M Company and other manufacturers whose chemical products have turned up in public water systems, exposing consumers to contamination threats, according to the plaintiffs.  The JCSD announced Monday that it had joined the federal Multi- District Litigation against the manufacturers after confirming that poly- fluoralkyl substances — PFAS — had been identified in potable water supplies within its jurisdiction, encompassing the cities of Jurupa Valley and Eastvale.  “Through this lawsuit, we seek the costs of cleaning up these contaminants borne by 3M, DuPont and the other companies that sold and profited from their products containing PFAS, not our ratepayers,” JCSD General Manger Chris Berch said. … ”  Read more from NBC Palm Springs here: Jurupa Community Services District sues big chemical makers over contaminants

La Quinta City Council unanimously rejects Coral Mountain Resort project, including wave pool

“Plans for a large development in La Quinta that would include hundreds of houses, a hotel and a high-tech surf wave basin — a centerpiece that’s drawn strong opposition from some residents and climate experts — were unanimously rejected by the city council Wednesday night following a lengthy meeting in a room packed with both opponents and supporters of the project.  The vote marks a major defeat for the current plans for Coral Mountain Resort, a roughly $200 million private development mapped for 386 acres of vacant land on the southwest corner of 58th Avenue and Madison Street. ... ”  Read more from The Desert Sun here: La Quinta City Council unanimously rejects Coral Mountain Resort project, including wave pool

Imperial Irrigation District to pay off QSA JPA agreement 13 years early

“The Imperial Irrigation District board voted 3-0 Tuesday, Sept. 20 to save $24 million dollars by paying off the balance of the 2003 QSA JPA balance.  When the Quantification Settlement Agreement (QSA) was signed in 2003, creating the largest rural to urban water transfer, another agreement came from that, the Joint Powers Authority Creation and Funding Agreement. The funds contributed to this second agreement would come from the three water districts involved in the QSA – the IID, the Coachella Valley Water District and the San Diego County Water Authority – along with the State of California. The funding was to limit what the water districts were liable for coming from environmental issues derived from the Salton Sea shrinking due to less water flowing into the inland sea. Any mitigation costs above the agreed upon funding would be the State’s responsibility. ... ”  Read more from the Desert Review here: Imperial Irrigation District to pay off QSA JPA agreement 13 years early

SAN DIEGO

More problems discovered with Lake Hodges Dam, delaying lake’s reopening and ballooning repair cost

“More problems have been discovered at the troubled Lake Hodges Dam, which will delay the lake’s reopening for boating and fishing indefinitely and increase the price tag for repairs.  “It is going to take us a few extra months to get this done and so we are working on that,” Lisa Celaya of the City of San Diego Public Utilities Department told ABC 10News.  The lake has been closed since May because lowering the water levels to allow crews to do the repairs exposed more of the shoreline, making it dangerous for recreation. As crews examined the newly exposed portions of the dam, they found additional defects. … ”  Read more from Channel 10 here: More problems discovered with Lake Hodges Dam, delaying lake’s reopening and ballooning repair cost

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Along the Colorado River …

In Washington, Colorado lawmakers seek long-term solutions for the drying West

“Some members of Congress from Colorado and New Mexico are encouraging the Bureau of Reclamation to use new funding to find long-term solutions to the Western drought, and particularly the dwindling and overextended Colorado River.  In a letter to Camille Touton, commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation, the lawmakers shared their priorities for how the $4 billion in drought money from the Inflation Reduction Act should be used.  “It is imperative for the BOR to focus efforts on a long-term strategy,” reads the letter. “However, no matter the timeframe of a project, the BOR needs to fund efforts that provide real, meaningful long-term reductions in water use from the River.” ... ”  Read more from Colorado Public Radio here: In Washington, Colorado lawmakers seek long-term solutions for the drying West

Tucson gives up some CAP water for cash

“The city of Tucson has agreed to cut back the amount of water it takes from the Colorado River over the next year and possibly longer. The deal comes with compensation from the federal government.  Late last year the Bureau of Reclamation, which manages the Lake Mead reservoir, offered customers the chance to get paid for not taking their full share of Colorado River water. The city of Tucson decided this spring to accept that offer.  Tucson Water director John Kmiec says the city can afford to do that because for years it has been taking more CAP water than it needs and banking the surplus underground. … ”  Read more from Arizona Public Media here: Tucson gives up some CAP water for cash

No surface water for Ariz. farmers next year

“Arizona farmers this year benefitted from mitigation water that otherwise would have cut their Central Arizona Project irrigation deliveries to zero. They won’t be so fortunate next year.  When the Bureau of Reclamation issued its first-ever Tier 1 restriction of Colorado River water from Lake Mead, Arizona’s farmers faced the elimination of their surface water supplies from the Central Arizona Project (CAP) for 2022. That portion of CAP surface water, known as the “ag pool,” is part of a 512,000-acre-foot cut Arizona faced under the restrictions as part of the Drought Contingency Plan, an agreement designed to preserve water in the Colorado River system. ... ”  Read more from the Western Farm Press here: No surface water for Ariz. farmers next year

Tribes seek more details on water use at Arizona copper mine

“An environmental review for a proposed copper mine in eastern Arizona did not adequately analyze the potential impacts of climate change and the strain that drought and demand have put on water resources in the region, a U.S. Bureau of Land Management report has found.  The U.S. Forest Service asked the Bureau of Land Management earlier this year to quality check its review for the Resolution Copper mine in Superior, about an hour east of Phoenix. The project is vehemently opposed by Native American tribes who hold the land sacred. … ”  Read more from SF Gate here: Tribes seek more details on water use at Arizona copper mine

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In national water news today …

The Clean Water Act at fifty: Highlights and lessons learned from a half century of transformative legislation

“The origins of the modern–day Clean Water Act date back to the 1899 Rivers and Harbors Act (RHA), which was the first use of a federal statute to control water pollution.1 Under Section 13 of the RHA, sometimes referred to as the “Refuse Act,” it was unlawful to discharge “any refuse matter of any kind or description whatever other than that flowing from streets and sewers and passing therefrom in a liquid state into any navigable water of the United States, or into any tributary of any navigable water.”  Although the statute focused on preventing obstacles to navigation, it became a tool for controlling water pollution. ... ”  Read the report from the Congressional Research Service here: The Clean Water Act at fifty: Highlights and lessons learned from a half century of transformative legislation

The where and when of drought during 2022’s growing season

“The list of places experiencing drought during this second year of “Triple-Dip” La Nina is disturbingly long. Portions of Europe, portions of China, and closer to home, effectively the entire state of California, where hundreds of thousands of cropland acres are being left fallow amid water restrictions.  But when we observe those persistent hotspots of exceptional drought in California’s Central Valley vegetable-growing region, or in Nevada or even Texas, how should we interpret it, from a commodity market perspective? It may sound callous to say it out loud, but the trading computers in Chicago don’t care that it rained in Arthur, Nebraska, over the weekend. (Sorry to pick on a random, small, Sandhills town). Two inches of rain in Ottumwa, Iowa, however? Not much help anymore, but if it had arrived two months ago, we’d have had something to talk about. … ”  Read more from the Progressive Farmer here: The where and when of drought during 2022’s growing season

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