On October 1, 2026, the North Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board (Regional Board) conducted a hearing regarding water quality in the Scott River and Shasta River. The Regional Board considered a five-year extension of conditional waivers for the Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) issued under the Waste Discharge Requirement program.  The Regional Board gave…

The Smith River, whose mainstem and three forks flow a total of approximately 124 miles, flows from the Klamath Mountains to the Pacific Ocean in Del Norte County, California. This waterway is arguably the most beautiful stream in California. For my money, it’s one of the most beautiful on Earth. The Smith River is a…

It takes effort to keep hatchery salmon safe, particularly from live disease-causing agents like bacteria, viruses, and microorganisms, which collectively are called pathogens. The fish hatcheries run by federal and state agencies employ different techniques to ensure the health of California’s salmon populations. In California, the two agencies involved in this effort are U.S. Fish…

State Water Board Plans Adoption on October 28, 29, and (if needed) 30 On September 18, 2026, CSPA joined a coalition of environmental organizations, fishing organizations, and Tribal advocates in comments on the August “Final” Draft Bay-Delta Plan. The State Water Board issued the draft on August 19, 2026. At the center of the proposed…

State Water Board Plans Adoption on November 4 On October 5, 2026, CSPA joined allied environmental organizations, fishing organizations, a Tribe, and Tribal advocates (“NGO Parties”) in comments on the Revised Draft Water Rights Permit and Revised Draft Water Rights Decision on the proposed Sites Reservoir. The State Water Board and its Administrative Hearing Office…