Thursday, January 10, 2013

News articles and links from January 10, 2013


Rivers

Story
From Modesto Bee - Tuesday, Jan. 8, 2013

Coalition response...Some federal agencies have been calling for years for more water as the only way to boost salmon numbers. Well, it hasn't worked and they are still clamoring for more water from cities and farmers. To cast aside suggestions by water districts that call for enhanced streambed restoration is a disservice not only to the public but also the environment. Additional suggestions called for reduced predatory fish, changing ocean fishing rules and improved hatchery practices need to be seriously considered and implemented.

Scientists from the Pacific Fisheries Management Council and the National Marine Fisheries Service have already identified poor ocean conditions---warm temperatures and reduced food supply---as the leading cause of the drop in salmon numbers. Isn't it time we listen to the scientists and start seeking real answers that will result in benefits that we can all enjoy?

Delta

Opinion
By Nick Di Croce
From SF Chronicle - Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2013

Coalition response...This article fails to present a full picture of the water issue that is confronting California and the solutions that are being developed. The current proposal addresses two very important goals developed by the Legislature: a reliable water supply and restoration of the Delta ecosystem. Scientists, biologists, researchers and others are pulling together a plan that achieves these goals.

Users who will receive water from the current proposal that includes improved conveyance in the Delta will pay their associated costs. A study by U.C. Berkeley economist David Sunding reveals that in addition to benefits realized by water users, California's economy will also benefit.

Water infrastructure in our state has been example to others for many years but it is showing its age. Guaranteeing California's water future requires an upgrade in this infrastructure and the current proposal is a major step in that direction.

Letter
From Sacramento Bee - Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2013

Coalition response...According to the National Marine Fisheries Service, ocean conditions, poor water quality and predation are significant causes for the decline of Delta fish species. This year's disastrous fall mid-water trawl survey results are even more alarming because we've done little more than cut water supplies since 1992 and the results aren't getting any better. Cutting back water deliveries is not the answer. We can no longer simply say that fish need more and more water. It's more complicated than that. Continuing to use old solutions to today's complex problems doesn't cut it anymore, especially when the old ways aren't providing any improvements in the system.
  
By Alex Breitler
From esanjoaquin - Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2013

Coalition response...Claiming that "Last year's pumping curtailments were not intended specifically to help smelt." is indeed splitting hairs. The fact that both smelt and salmon numbers are down this year is a clear indication that the simplistic approach of just cutting water supplies isn't helping either salmon or smelt recover. It's time for a new approach that recognizes other stressors in the system and then manage it accordingly.

WATER SUPPLY

Story
From Woodland Daily Democrat - Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2013

Story
From Imperial Valley Press - Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2013

DELTA

Story
From Mountain Democrat - Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2013 

Story
From ACWA - Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2013

RIVERS

Story
From Marysville Appeal-Democrat - Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2013

Letter
From Marysville Appeal-Democrat - Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2013

MEETINGS

Announcement

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