Webcast link for today’s Delta Stewardship Council meeting
Posted by: Maven on February 9, 2012 at 5:54 amThe Delta Stewardship Council will be meeting today and tomorrow. Among the items on the agenda, the Council will be reviewing the Delta Protection Commission’s Proposal to Sustain the Delta as an Evolving Place. Today’s meeting is scheduled to begin at 10AM. Click here for the webcast. An agenda is provided at the webcast link.
Webcast link for today’s Delta Stewardship Council meeting
Posted by: Maven on January 26, 2012 at 8:17 amHere is the webcast link for today’s Delta Stewardship Council meeting, scheduled to begin at 9:00 AM.
Still haven’t registered for Water 101?
Posted by: Maven on January 26, 2012 at 8:13 amFrom the Water Education Foundation:
This Feb. 23-24 workshop is a chance to learn the basics of California water and much more – straight from the leaders at the forefront of today’s water world. Don’t miss this amazing educational opportunity!
Top speakers include:
- Attorneys Scott Morris and Tom Berliner, discussing California’s water rights system and governing laws
- Dennis O’Connor with the Senate Committee on Natural Resources and Water, discussing working with and understanding the state Legislature
- Lester Snow, former director of the California Department of Water Resources, presenting an overview on Delta issues and Delta water quality
And many more!
On the second day, participants will be provided with a governance primer for water district directors that will include the roles and responsibilities of a director, and the legal requirements of board members. Discussions will be led by attorneys Valerie Kincaid and Paul Barkiewicz. Tom Philp with Metropolitan Water District of Southern California will round out the afternoon with a discussion on understanding the news media.
Registration is $250. This includes all educational materials, coffee breaks, lunch on February 23 and a graduation certificate upon completion of the day-and-a-half course. Scholarships are available on a case-by-case basis. Contact Diana Farmer at dfarmer@watereducation.org to learn more.
Click here to view the complete agenda and register securely online.
Two-day course: Introduction to Groundwater and Watershed Hydrology: Monitoring, Assessment, and Protection
Posted by: Maven on January 19, 2012 at 7:17 amFrom the University of California Davis, John Muir Institute:
“Groundwater and watershed monitoring, assessment and protection is an integral part of many water-related programs at the local, state, and federal level designed for sustainable development and protection of water resources in California. Today, through the implementation of programs such as groundwater management plans, source water assessments, and conjunctive use agreements, members of watershed groups, professionals, executives, and employees of diverse background and in a wide variety of private, non-profit, and government responsibilities at the local, state, and federal level are directly or indirectly involved in the management and assessment of groundwater and surface water. Yet, many find themselves lacking the multidisciplinary background, expertise, or means to meet the technical and regulatory challenges related to water and drinking water resources management. The amount of technical information available is often overwhelming.
This short course will review the fundamental principles of groundwater and watershed hydrology, water quality, and water contamination. It will provide an overview of the most common tools for measuring, monitoring, and assessing groundwater and surface water resources. And it will review current local, state, and federal programs dealing with groundwater and watersheds. The course is geared towards a broad audience that is involved in the management, assessment, and protection of water resources, either professionally, as an educator, as a stakeholder, or otherwise . Course attendees who may have some experience with, but no formal training in hydrology or related engineering or science fields, will benefit from the basic and intuitive, yet comprehensive approach of this course. … “
For more information or to register, click here.
DWR Workshop: Climate Change, Extreme Weather, and Southern California Floods, January 31
Posted by: Maven on January 17, 2012 at 7:22 am
From the Department of Water Resources:
The Department of Water Resources (DWR) will hold a climate change workshop in Alhambra on January 31. The focus will be on potential climate change impacts on Southern California floods, and examples of ongoing programs to reduce flood risk. The workshop is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works Headquarters, 900 S. Fremont Avenue.
This workshop is being held as a complementary event to Governor Brown’s December 15 conference on extreme climate risks and California’s future, which focused on the threats of extreme weather events to the state’s economy, business sectors, public health, and natural resources. For background on the Governor’s conference, go to http://gov.ca.gov/ecrcf.php.
At the national level, 2011 extreme weather events set a new record for billion-dollar weather disasters, with estimated damages of $52 billion according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Statistics such as these emphasize the need for planning to avoid impacts, and to be prepared to respond when extreme weather events happen.
DWR Workshop: Climate Change, Extreme Weather, and Central Valley Floods, February 14th
Posted by: Maven on January 17, 2012 at 7:21 amFrom the Department of Water Resources:
“The Department of Water Resources (DWR) will hold a climate change workshop in West Sacramento on February 14. The focus will be on the state of the science regarding potential climate change impacts on Central Valley floods, and examples of ongoing programs to reduce flood risk. The workshop is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Department of Water Resources office, 3500 Industrial Boulevard.
This workshop is being held as a complementary event to Governor Brown’s December 15 conference on extreme climate risks and California’s future, which focused on the threats of extreme weather events to the state’s economy, business sectors, public health, and natural resources. For background on the Governor’s conference, see: http://gov.ca.gov/ecrcf.php.
At the national level, 2011 extreme weather events set a new record for billion-dollar weather disasters, with estimated damages of $52 billion according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Statistics such as these emphasize the need for planning to avoid impacts, and to be prepared to respond when extreme weather events happen.
Reclamation and USGS schedule two-day workshop on the Central Valley Hydrologic Model
Posted by: Maven on January 11, 2012 at 7:23 amFrom the Bureau of Reclamation, this press release:
“The Bureau of Reclamation and the United States Geological Survey (USGS) will hold a workshop to present datasets used for the Central Valley Hydrologic Model (CVHM). Professionals involved in groundwater modeling of California’s Central Valley may be interested in attending the workshop, which is open to the general public at no charge.
The workshop will be presented in four parts over two days: Part 1, “Hydrogeologic Framework,” and Part 2, “Surface Water and Climate,” will be presented on Tuesday, January 24. On Tuesday, January 31, Part 3, “Irrigated Agriculture,” and Part 4, “Model Observations and Ways to Move Forward,” will be presented. Both workshop sessions will begin at 9 a.m. and conclude at 4 p.m.
The workshop will provide a forum for attendees to learn about and discuss the datasets used for the Central Valley Hydrologic Model. Currently, three regional and several sub-regional model applications are being undertaken by Reclamation, USGS and the California Department of Water Resources (DWR), with each model application having unique purposes and differences. This workshop will focus on the CVHM input datasets, which include data from DWR and USGS. The workshop will include an overview of a website to share raw datasets and how the website may be expanded and linked to other datasets. … “
Continue reading from the Bureau of Reclamation by clicking here.
California Water Commission agenda for January 18th meeting
Posted by: Maven on January 10, 2012 at 7:36 amThe California Water Commission has just posted their agenda for next week’s meeting.
During the morning session, the Commission will discuss a DWR staff report on methods for the quantification of public benefits of water storage projects. This is an informational session only; this portion of the meeting will take place in room 340 and will not be webcast. The afternoon session will begin at 1pm in the first floor auditorium and will be webcast.
To review the agenda, click here.
Delta Stewardship Council seeks public comment at EIR field hearings beginning this week
Posted by: Maven on January 9, 2012 at 6:56 amFrom the Delta Stewardship Council:
“The Delta Stewardship Council, the state agency charged with developing a long-term, legally enforceable management plan for the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, is seeking public input on its draft Program Environmental Impact Report (EIR) that reviews the 5th staff draft Delta Plan.
The Delta Plan’s fundamental purpose is to meet the state-mandated coequal goals of “providing a more reliable water supply for California and protecting, restoring and enhancing the Delta ecosystem … in a manner that protects and enhances the unique cultural, recreational, natural resource and agricultural values of the Delta as an evolving place.” (CA Water Code §85054)
The draft EIR analyzes the environmental impacts of the draft Delta Plan, which includes 12 regulatory policies and 61 recommendations designed to guide state and local agencies regarding land, water, air and other systems in the Delta. The EIR also examines five alternatives, including: a no project alternative, two alternatives with increased emphasis on water supply reliability, one alternative with increased emphasis on Delta ecosystem restoration and one alternative with increased emphasis on protection and enhancement of Delta communities and culture.
Meetings will include a brief overview of the Delta Plan followed by public comments related to the draft EIR. The same project information will be presented at all meetings. The Council also welcomes written comments by 5 p.m. on February 2, 2012.
The EIR Field Hearings will be conducted on the following dates and at the following locations:
Meeting No. 1 of 5 – San Diego Wednesday, January 11, 2012, 6 p.m.* Valencia Park/Malcolm X Library, Multipurpose Room 5148 Market Street, San Diego, CA 92114
Meeting No. 2 of 5 – Southern California Thursday, January 12, 2012, 6 p.m.* Pasadena Public Library, Central Location, Donald R. Wright Auditorium 285 East Walnut Street, Pasadena, CA 91101
Meeting No. 3 of 5 – Central California Tuesday, January 17, 2012, 6 p.m.*
Ceres Community Center, Large Assembly Room 2701 4th Street, Ceres, CA 95307Meeting No. 4 of 5 – Delta Wednesday, January 18, 2012, 6 p.m.* Clarksburg Middle School Auditorium, 52870 Netherlands Road, Clarksburg, CA 95612
Meeting No. 5 of 5 – Northern California Thursday, January 19, 2012, 6 p.m.*
Willows City Council Chambers, 201 North Lassen Street, Willows, CA 95988*All meetings are set to start at 6 p.m. and conclude when all comments have been received.”
SEE ALSO: Public Speaks, Council Listens, from the Delta Stewardship Council website
Delta Independent Science Board to meet next week
Posted by: Maven on January 5, 2012 at 8:30 amFrom the Delta Stewardship Council’s Delta Science Program:
“On January 12-13, 2012, the Delta Independent Science Board (ISB) will discuss two draft memos summarizing key findings from its October and December meetings.
During the public meeting, the Delta ISB members will also hear a status update on the BDCP in preparation for their review of the BDCP Draft EIR, and a presentation from the State Water Resources Control Board on historic and current efforts to establish flow objectives including the recent efforts on the San Joaquin River and South Delta.
January 12-13, 2012
9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Cal EPA Building
1001 “I” St.
Sacramento, CA 95814
What’s new in 2012 at the Water Education Foundation
Posted by: Maven on January 3, 2012 at 6:00 amFrom the Water Education Foundation:
It’s the start of a new year and the Foundation has some exciting plans in store for 2012. If you’ve never been on a water tour or attended one of the Foundation’s conferences, the coming year will bring plenty of opportunities for you to learn more about important water issues. Below are just some of the events happening this year. Mark your calendars!
Five water tours will be offered in 2012:
- Sea to Sierra Train Tour, March 1-2
- Lower Colorado River Tour, March 14-16
- Central Valley Tour, April 11-13
- Flood Management Tour, May 24-25
- Bay-Delta Tour, June 13-15
- Northern California Tour, October 17-19
Click here for more information about these action-packed filed trips to see water supply projects, farms, environmental restoration sites and much more!
Water 101: The Basics and Beyond
It’s back to school on February 23-24 for this day-and-a-half course on California water basics and water district board member governance. Water 101 will cover the history of and the management structure of water in California and about the water issues facing the state. It will be held at the University of California, Davis from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Feb. 23 and 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Feb. 24. To learn more or register securely online, click here.
29th Annual Executive Briefing
The annual Executive Briefing is scheduled for March 27-28 at the Doubletree Hotel in Sacramento. Don’t miss this amazing educational opportunity to hear from a wide range of speakers on all sides of the issues – panel discussions will include speakers from leading agricultural, environmental and urban water stakeholders and governmental agencies. This is THE event to learn the latest on critical water issues straight from today’s headlines.
Topics to be discussed at this year’s event include:
- Delta Plans and Programs: Making Decisions
- The Water Bond and the Ballot
- The Colorado River Agreement and the Courts: What Will It Mean for California?
- Water Rates on the Rise
- Water and Energy: Managing the Connection
- San Joaquin River Restoration: Staying the Course?
Click here for more information or to register securely online, or call the Foundation at (916) 444-6240.
Event: 2012 California Water Law Symposium: Water and Growth: The Imperative for Sustainable Approaches to Uncertainty
Posted by: Maven on January 3, 2012 at 5:59 amFrom U.C. Berkeley:
“Berkeley Law will host the 8th Annual, student-run California Water Law Symposium on Saturday, January 21, 2012. The Symposium is a collaborative effort by students from Berkeley Law, Golden Gate University School of Law, UC Davis School of Law, UC Hastings College of the Law, and University of San Francisco School of Law. It brings together the leading minds in water law to educate students, practitioners, and one another through a series of panel discussions that address contemporary challenges and controversies in California water law.
This year’s theme, “Water and Growth: The Imperative for Sustainable Approaches to Uncertainty,” explores these issues in light of the demands placed on California’s limited and increasingly uncertain water supply by a growing population.
Event: The Future of Water in Southern California: January 27, 2012
Posted by: Maven on January 3, 2012 at 5:58 amFrom UCLA:
Local source development promises greater reliability, water security and progressively more cost-effective sources of water. This summit will highlight success stories from across the globe, explore emerging water reuse strategies, and identify critical policy, communications and coalition-building questions for the region.
The event will bring together thought leaders from water agencies, universities, the private sector, and non-profits to assess strategies for further developing local water sources in Southern California. Participants will explore the latest technology, research, policy and implementation strategies.
Date: Friday, January 27, 2012
Location: Japanese American National Museum, 369 E. First Street, Los Angeles, 90012 Registration: Only $25, which includes breakfast, lunch and receptionContinue reading “Event: The Future of Water in Southern California: January 27, 2012” »
Delta Stewardship Council seeks public comment on Delta Plan draft Environmental Impact Report; Field hearings across the state to be held in January
Posted by: Maven on December 22, 2011 at 7:46 amFrom the Delta Stewardship Council:
“The Delta Stewardship Council, the state agency charged with developing a comprehensive, long-term and legally enforceable management plan for the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, is seeking public input on the draft Program Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the Delta Plan.
The Delta Plan’s fundamental purpose is to meet the state-mandated coequal goals of “providing a more reliable water supply for California and protecting, restoring and enhancing the Delta ecosystem … in a manner that protects and enhances the unique cultural, recreational, natural resource and agricultural values of the Delta as an evolving place.” (CA Water Code §85054)
The draft EIR analyzes the environmental impacts of the draft Delta Plan, which includes 12 regulatory policies and 61 recommendations designed to guide state and local agencies regarding land, water, air and other systems in the Delta. The EIR also examines five alternative plans, including: a no project alternative, two alternatives with increased emphasis on water supply reliability, one alternative with increased emphasis on Delta ecosystem restoration and one alternative with increased emphasis on protection and enhancement of Delta communities and culture.
Comments on the draft EIR are currently being accepted electronically, by mail and at field hearings scheduled throughout California. … “
The Delta Stewardship Council will be traveling across the state in January conducting field hearings to collect public comment. To view the schedule of meetings, or for more details on how to submit your comments electronically or by mail, click here.
RELATED: EIR Comment Period Extended to Feb. 2, from the Delta Stewardship Council
Link for today’s Bay Delta Conservation Plan public meeting
Posted by: Maven on December 14, 2011 at 7:30 amHere’s the details to participate in today’s meeting:
Today’s public meeting for the Bay Delta Conservation Plan is scheduled to begin at 1:30pm at the Sheraton Grand Sacramento Hotel Gardenia Room at 1230 J Street. On the agenda for today is a discussion of the BDCP document review process and an update on the Effects Analysis, among other items. You can read the full agenda here.
The meeting will not be available via live webcast, but you can listen by conference call. A recorded webcast of the meeting will be available on Thursday.
To participate: Conference Call Dial-in Number 1-877-423-6338, Passcode 453374
Bay Delta Conservation Plan draft chapters available for review; Agenda posted for public meeting December 14
Posted by: Maven on December 9, 2011 at 8:02 amFrom the Bay Delta Conservation Plan website:
“Draft Chapters Available for Review: A series of preliminary draft BDCP and environmental review chapters are now available for public review and consideration. These documents fall into two categories: Draft BDCP documents, and Draft Environmental Impact Report/Environmental Impact Statement (EIR/EIS) documents. View the documents.
BDCP Public Meeting on December 14: A public meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, December 14 at 1:30 p.m. to discuss the new BDCP documents review process, provide an update on the Effects Analysis and findings to date, and share updates on issues currently being discussed in the working groups. View the meeting agenda for details.”
Deadline to apply for 2012 Water Leaders Class extended to Dec. 7!
Posted by: Maven on December 5, 2011 at 7:48 amFrom the Water Education Foundation:
“APPLY BY DECEMBER 7 to be a part of next year’s class of up-and-coming community leaders and learn from top level policymakers in the water world!
The Water Leaders Class is a one-year program that enhances individual leadership skills and prepares participants to take an active, cooperative approach to decision-making about water resource issues.
Designed as a program for working professionals, participation involves a time commitment from both the class member and the employer.
Class requirements include:
• Attending a special one-day class orientation in January
• Attending two Foundation water tours
• Attending the Foundation’s Executive Briefing in March
• Participating in the Water Leaders Auction
• Participating in work group meetingsEach class member is assigned a top level policymaker as a mentor while the class researches and analyzes a specific water topic.
Tuition for 2012 is $3,000. A limited number of scholarships are available. Questions? Contact Jean Nordmann at jnordmann@watereducation.org for more information.”
2012 California Water Law Symposium: Water and Growth: The Imperative for Sustainable Approaches to Uncertainty
Posted by: Maven on November 28, 2011 at 7:36 amFrom U.C. Berkeley:
“Berkeley Law will host the 8th Annual, student-run California Water Law Symposium on Saturday, January 21, 2012. The Symposium is a collaborative effort by students from Berkeley Law, Golden Gate University School of Law, UC Davis School of Law, UC Hastings College of the Law, and University of San Francisco School of Law. It brings together the leading minds in water law to educate students, practitioners, and one another through a series of panel discussions that address contemporary challenges and controversies in California water law. This year’s theme, “Water and Growth: The Imperative for Sustainable Approaches to Uncertainty,” explores these issues in light of the demands placed on California’s limited and increasingly uncertain water supply by a growing population.
We have put together 8 exciting panel discussions that bring to bear the diverse viewpoints and expertise of government officials, non-profit organizations, legal scholars, consultants, water stakeholders, and private law firms:
- Session 1A: The Central Valley Project – Subsidized Water for California Farmers?
- Session 1B: California Water Management Success Stories: The Portfolio Management Approach & Other Advances in Sustainability
- Session 2A: The Water-Energy Nexus: Integrated Water Resource Management
- Session 2B: Achieving Water Sustainability in a Changing Climate
- Session 3A: Smart Water Planning for Development and Growth
- Session 3B: Best Practices for Managing California’s Water Banks in the Future: Saving for a (Non)Rainy Day
- Session 4A: Can California Afford to Declare a Human Right to Clean Drinking Water?
- Session 4B: Effective Groundwater Monitoring and Management in California: SB X7-6 as the First Step in the Long Road Ahead
Additionally, Frances Spivy-Weber, Vice-Chair of the State Water Resources Control Board, will deliver the keynote address, and Berkeley Professor Emeritus Joseph Sax will give a lunchtime talk about the past, present, and potential future of the public trust doctrine in California.
General admission is $40, and 6.5 hours of MCLE credit is $100. Registration is free for students with valid school ID.
Please visit the website (http://www.waterlawsymposium.com/) for more details about the day’s events and to register.”
Happy Thanksgiving!
Posted by: Maven on November 24, 2011 at 8:05 am
HAPPY THANKSGIVING
May you have plenty to be thankful for on this day.
Wishing you a peaceful and memorable holiday! –Maven
Leaf turkey art and picture by flickr photographer Jennifer 13.
Assembly subcommittee to hold hearing on Salton Sea restoration
Posted by: Maven on November 24, 2011 at 7:31 amFrom ACWA’s Water News:
“An Assembly budget subcommittee will hold a hearing Nov. 28 on funding needs and options for restoration of the Salton Sea.
The hearing, convened by the Assembly Budget Subcommittee No. 3 on Resources and Transportation, will also examine the state’s obligation and role in moving restoration efforts forward.
Anton Favorini-Csorba of the Legislative Analyst’s Office is scheduled to provide an overview of Salton Sea issues, with speakers from the Natural Resources Agency, Department of Water Resources and Department of Fish and Game also providing testimony. … “
Continue reading from ACWA’s Water News by clicking here. The hearing will be held in Mecca. KXO Radio is reporting that the hearing will be webcast at Assemblyman Perez’s website. You can read the agenda here.
Delta Independent Science Board seeks feedback to learn how Delta science can meet decision-makers’ needs
Posted by: Maven on November 21, 2011 at 7:25 amFrom the Delta Independent Science Board:
“On December 1-2, the Delta Independent Science Board (ISB) will engage in a discussion with staff and elected officials, agency heads and leaders from stakeholder organizations that use Delta science to make management decisions. The information obtained from these discussions will be used by the Delta ISB to develop a broad assessment of the organization and operation of science in the Delta and to identify and prioritize the programs it will review.
The Delta Independent Science Board (ISB) is required by the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Reform Act of 2009 to:
“…provide oversight of the scientific research, monitoring, and assessment programs
that support adaptive management of the Delta through periodic reviews of each of those programs that shall be scheduled to ensure that all Delta scientific research, monitoring, and assessment programs are reviewed at least once every four years.” (WC 85280 (a)(3))During the public meeting, the Delta ISB will also receive a report from the Delta Science Program Lead Scientist. For more information, click here.”
Become a water leader in 2012: Deadline to apply is December 5!
Posted by: Maven on November 17, 2011 at 8:52 amFrom the Water Education Foundation:
“The deadline to apply for the 2012 Water Leaders Class is just around the corner. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to learn from top level policy-makers in the water world!
The Water Leaders class is a one-year program that identifies community leaders from diverse backgrounds and educates them about water issues. Each class member is assigned a top level policy-maker as a mentor as the class researches and analyzes a specific water topic.
Class requirements include attending a January orientation, two Foundation water tours, and the Foundation’s Executive Briefing in March. Tuition is $2,500. Scholarships are available – please contact Jean Nordmann at jnordmann@watereducation.org for more information.
Water Leaders Alumni say…
- 100% said they better understand water issues.
- 90% said their ongoing relationship with class members has been helpful in their professional lives.
- 86% remain in a water-related profession.
- 86% said they include graduation from the Water Leaders Class on their resume.
- 100% said they would recommend the Water Leaders Class to a colleague.
Deadline to apply is December 5. To learn more or to download a PDF application, visit the Foundation’s website by clicking here.
Webcast links for today’s California Water Commission meeting & Delta Stewardship Council meeting
Posted by: Maven on November 17, 2011 at 7:30 amOn the webcast calendar today (Thursday):
CALIFORNIA WATER COMMISSION MEETING: The California Water Commission completed all its business on its agenda and so they will not be meeting today.
DELTA STEWARDSHIP COUNCIL: The Delta Stewardship Council will be meeting today from 10:00am to 4:30pm. You can find the meeting notice here. The meeting will be webcast here: http://cal-span.org/Broadcast/DSC.asx (Interesting to note: You can watch the webcast on your smartphone by clicking here!)
The Delta Conservancy seeks input from Suisun Marsh stakeholders
Posted by: Maven on November 16, 2011 at 8:28 amFrom the Delta Conservancy:
“The Delta Conservancy has scheduled a community meeting for Wednesday, November 30, 2011, 2:00pm-4:00pm at the Rush Ranch, 3521 Grizzly Island Road, Suisun City. The Delta Conservancy is a primary lead agency for implementing ecosystem restoration in the Delta and Suisun Marsh.
The Delta Conservancy recognizes the high level of support by stakeholders for the wetlands and wildlife in the Suisun Marsh and wants to hear ideas about how the Delta Conservancy can best support and enhance the needs of the region.
At the meeting Conservancy staff will introduce themselves, review the Conservancy’s strategic plan process, including how people can become involved, and open the meeting for discussion of what’s important to attendees.
For more information, visit the Conservancy’s website, www.deltaconservancy.ca.gov and join the list serve to receive announcement of upcoming public meetings and events.
Questions about the community meeting can be directed to Susan Roberts at 916-375-2088.”
Webcast links for today’s California Water Commission meeting and the BDCP Public Meeting
Posted by: Maven on November 16, 2011 at 7:30 amThe following meetings are scheduled for today (Wednesday):
CALIFORNIA WATER COMMISSION MEETING: The California Water Commission will be meeting today beginning at 9am in Sacramento. You can find the agenda and meeting materials here. The meeting will be webcast here: http://cawater.rmxpres.com/webcast/data/dwr11162011/main.htm
BAY DELTA CONSERVATION PLAN PUBLIC MEETING: The BDCP public meeting is scheduled to begin at 1:30pm today. Click here for meeting materials. The meeting will be webcast here: http://www.visualwebcaster.com/event.asp?id=83686
BDCP revises process for upcoming public meeting
Posted by: Maven on November 7, 2011 at 6:10 amFrom the Bay Delta Conservation Plan:
“We appreciate the involvement that the public has had in the BDCP process to date, and have heard from many of you regarding your interest in interacting with the Bay Delta Conservation Plan (BDCP).
In response to interest expressed by several organizations for more interaction with other interest groups, we are revising the public meeting component of BDCP. Beginning in November, there will be a single public meeting held each month.
In order to allow for meaningful discussion between all participants, each interest group will be asked to appoint and send representatives to the meeting. Like all BDCP meetings to date, this meeting will be open to any member of the public who wishes to attend. View the letter from Jerry Meral, Deputy Secretary, California Natural Resources Agency, for more information and to appoint a representative.
Public meetings are currently scheduled for November 16 and December 14. Visit the calendar for meeting information.”
California Water Commission to meet November 16 & 17
Posted by: Maven on November 7, 2011 at 6:05 amThe California Water Commission will meet next week on November 16 & 17 in Sacramento. You can read the meeting notice and agenda here. The meetings will be webcast and the links posted at the top of the scroll here on Aquafornia on the days the meeting is in session.
For more information on the California Water Commission, visit them online at www.cwc.ca.gov.
Delta Science Program Brown Bag Series presents: Environmental flows and the restoration of the Great Zambezi Delta of Mozambique, Monday Nov. 7
Posted by: Maven on November 1, 2011 at 8:46 amFrom the Delta Science Program:
“Seminar Set on Environmental Flows and the Restoration of the Great Zambezi Delta of Mozambique
November 7, 2011, 12 noon – 1 p.m.
Cal EPA Building 1st Floor: Training Room 1, East & West
1001 “I” Street, Sacramento CA 95814The Delta Science Program Brown Bag series will host a noontime seminar by Dr. Richard Beilfuss, President of the International Crane Foundation, on efforts to restore the Zambezi Delta by implementing environmental flows and re-establishing river-floodplain connectivity.
The Zambezi River Delta of Mozambique represents one of the last and best opportunities to restore a functioning delta in Africa. Over the past century large dams and flood control dikes have substantially altered the vast delta, resulting in widespread adverse changes including reduction of wildlife populations, loss of diverse floodplain grasslands and coastal mangroves, and a collapse of floodplain fisheries and agriculture.
Webcast link for today’s California Water Commission’s Water Storage Workshop
Posted by: Maven on October 25, 2011 at 8:00 amToday’s California Water Commission’s Water Storage Workshop being held in Sacramento will be webcast from 9:30 to 4:45. The meeting will be available on demand at the same link afterwards on the afternoon Wednesday afternoon.
Click here for the webcast link for the Water Storage Workshop.
Event: “Adapt, Flee, or Perish: Responses to Climate Change for California’s Water Sector”
Posted by: Maven on October 20, 2011 at 7:54 amFrom the Placer Herald:
““Adapt, Flee, or Perish: Responses to Climate Change for California’s Water Sector” will be focus of presentation by Department of Water Resources Assistant Deputy Director John Andrew at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 21 in Sewell Hall Room 111 on the Rocklin campus of Sierra College, 5000 Rocklin Road.
Andrew will describe the challenges posed by climate change for California’s water supply, including a reduction in snowpack and annual runoff and shifts in seasonal timing. … “
Continue reading from the Placer Herald by clicking here.
State Board to bring together water groups and evnironmental organizations on October 26 to discuss water transfers
Posted by: Maven on October 20, 2011 at 7:48 amFrom the California Department of Food and Agriculture, received via email:
“The California State Board of Food and Agriculture will discuss policies for agricultural water transfers at its regularly scheduled meeting on October 26th in Sacramento. The meeting will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the California Department of Food and Agriculture, 1220 ‘N’ Street – Main Auditorium, Sacramento, CA 95814.
“As policy discussions continue about California’s water future we cannot forget about the need to facilitate water transfers for agricultural purposes,” said CDFA Secretary Karen Ross. “An adequate supply of affordable water for agriculture that accommodates reasonable urban needs and improves environmental quality is a goal we all strive for.”
Scheduled speakers include: Deputy Regional Director Pablo Arroyave, U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, Mid-Pacific Region; Director Mark Cowin, California Department of Water Resources; Dante John Nomellino, Sr., Central Delta Water Agency; Ed Smith, Palo Verde Irrigation District; Roger Patterson, Metropolitan Water District of Southern California; Lewis Bair, Reclamation District 108; Spreck Rosekrans, Environmental Defense Fund; and Carol Perkins, Butte Environmental Council. Additional invited speakers include representatives from water districts and environmental organizations.
“Every year California’s farmers and ranchers struggle with a process to transfer water within this state,” said Craig McNamara, president of the California State Board of Food and Agriculture. “By bringing these various stakeholders together, we are highlighting this important topic as well as furthering public discussion on the issue.”
The California State Board of Food and Agriculture advises the governor and the CDFA secretary on agricultural issues and consumer needs. The state board conducts forums that bring together local, state and federal government officials, agricultural representative and citizens to discuss current issues of concern to California agriculture.”
A series of water rights and trading summits to highlight investment opportunities arising from water scarcity
Posted by: Maven on October 19, 2011 at 8:40 amFrom PR Web:
“Three Water Rights and Trading Summits will be held next year (2012) to highlight the business and investment opportunities being created by the water crisis in the western United States. American Water Intelligence and WestWater Research are jointly holding these regional events in Arizona, California and Texas that will bring together industry leaders in water development and investment to focus on finding creative solutions to resource issues in some of the most water-stressed states in the union. … “
More details by clicking here.
Upcoming schedule for Bay Delta Conservation Plan meetings
Posted by: Maven on October 18, 2011 at 6:16 amFrom the Bay Delta Conservation Plan:
Thank you for your continued interest in BDCP. The following meetings are scheduled in the coming weeks.
Week of October 17:
- BDCP Management Committee meeting: Wednesday, October 19 at 1 p.m. in Sacramento.
Week of October 24:
- Delta Science Program Independent Science Review of the BDCP Effects Analysis Conceptual Foundation and Analytical Framework and Entrainment Appendix: Tuesday and Wednesday, October 25-26 in Sacramento. View the meeting notice.
- Canceled – The Adaptive Limits working group meeting scheduled for Wednesday, October 26 at 10:30 a.m. in Sacramento has been canceled.
- Financing working group meeting: Thursday, October 27 at 9 a.m. in Sacramento.
- Canceled – The South Delta Habitat working group meeting scheduled for Friday, October 28 has been canceled. The next meeting is scheduled for December 2 in Lathrop.
All meetings are open to the public. Visit the BDCP website for meeting details and a calendar of upcoming meetings.
Bakersfield: Celebratory water conference on tap
Posted by: Maven on October 13, 2011 at 7:43 amFrom the Bakersfield Californian:
“If you want to know the latest on water — and who doesn’t? — there will be a daylong conference at Bakersfield College Oct. 21 all about water.
And it’s free.
The event is being put on by the Kern County Water Agency in recognition of the Agency’s 50th anniversary. … “
Continue reading from the Bakersfield Californian by clicking here.
MORE: Read the press release from Kern County Water Agency by clicking here.
Oversight field hearing set for October 18th on sucker fish habitat designation
Posted by: Maven on October 12, 2011 at 7:40 amFrom ACWA’s Water News:
“The House Subcommittee on Water and Power will hold a field hearing Oct. 18 in the Inland Empire to examine federal designation of nearly 10,000 acres of critical habitat for the Santa Ana sucker. … “
Continue reading from ACWA’s Water News by clicking here.
California Water Commission to meet on October 19
Posted by: Maven on October 10, 2011 at 7:30 amFrom the California Water Commission:
The California Water Commission will hold a meeting on October 19, 2011 in Sacramento.
Please see the attached agenda [Agenda for CWC Oct 2011 Meeting FINAL 1] for meeting details. Meeting materials will be posted at the following link: www.cwc.ca.gov/meetings
This meeting will be webcast live at: http://cawater.rmxpres.com/webcast/data/dwr10192011/main.htm
For more information about the California Water Commission, please visit our website at www.cwc.ca.gov
Water Commission schedules Water Storage Workshop for October 25
Posted by: Maven on October 7, 2011 at 8:12 amFrom the Department of Water Resources:
“The California Water Commission will host its second public workshop on the future of the state’s water storage projects on October 25, 2011. The purpose of this event is to provide a forum for discussion of the benefits, costs, and consequences of various water storage projects in California, and to consider future uncertainties, such as climate change.
“At our first workshop in September, federal, state and local water officials provided an historical perspective on water storage projects in California,” said Anthony Saracino, Water Commission Chair. “At the next workshop, commissioners and attendees will hear leading experts from water agencies and the science and environmental communities talk in more detail about specific projects and the future of water storage in California.”
Panels will focus on System Reoperation and Integrated Water Management, Groundwater, Surface Storage, and Evaluating Public Benefits of Storage Projects. A copy of the complete agenda is available at http://cwc.ca.gov/workshops.cfm.
The workshop will be held at the California Auto Museum, 2220 Front Street in Sacramento. Sign-in will open at 9:15 a.m., with proceedings beginning at 9:30 a.m. There is no cost to attend, but advance registration is requested at cwc@water.ca.gov or (916) 653-8517.
The California Water Commission consists of nine members appointed by the Governor. Its role historically includes advising the Department of Water Resources, approving rules and regulations, and monitoring and reporting on the construction of the State Water Project. California’s comprehensive water legislation, enacted in 2009, gave the Commission new responsibilities including developing regulations for the quantification and management the public benefits of water storage projects. The Delta Stewardship Council has recommended that the Commission, together with other agencies, identify projects that could be implemented within the next five to 10 years, expand existing surface and groundwater storage facilities, create new storage, improve operation of existing Delta conveyance facilities, and enhance opportunities for conjunctive use programs and water transfers.”
October 18: Legislators to address the reality of funding for Delta projects
Posted by: Maven on October 6, 2011 at 8:27 amFrom the Water Education Foundation:
“Three California legislators will talk candidly about the realities and challenges regarding funding for future projects in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta during the Oct. 18 forum “Changing Our Perspective: New Ways of Thinking about the Delta.”
State Senators Lois Wolk (D-Davis) and Jean Fuller (R-Bakersfield) will be joined by Assembly Member Bill Berryhill (R-Stockton) for a panel discussion entitled “Reality Check: Status of Public Financing for Large-Scale Ecosystem and Economic Development Programs.” The three legislators will provide diverse perspectives about funding for large-scale programs in the Delta. This will also include questions regarding a multi-billion dollar water bond scheduled to be on the November 2012 ballot.
The Delta forum is sponsored by the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Conservancy and the Water Education Foundation. The event will be held at the Haggin Oaks Golf Complex, 3645 Fulton Ave. in Sacramento.
Continue reading “October 18: Legislators to address the reality of funding for Delta projects” »
U.S. District Court Judge Wanger to serve as keynote speaker for the Southern California Water Committee’s annual dinner November 17
Posted by: Maven on October 6, 2011 at 8:22 amFrom the Southern California Water Committee:
“In one of his first appearances since retiring from the bench, Judge Oliver Wanger will serve as the keynote speaker for SCWC’s 27th Annual Dinner on November 17th.
Don’t miss this opportunity to hear firsthand Judge Wanger’s truly unique and compelling observations and insights on California water law, regulations and politics. In the past two decades, Judge Wanger has ruled on some of the most important and high profile cases, credited by all stakeholders with insightful and thoughtful deliberations.
Don’t miss out! SCWC’s Annual Dinner is the premier networking event in Southern California.”
Informational hearing set on water reliability and seismic risk
Posted by: Maven on October 6, 2011 at 8:12 amFrom ACWA’s Water News:
“The state’s water delivery system and its vulnerability to a major earthquake will be the focus of an informational hearing Oct. 19 co-hosted by Assembly Member Bonnie Lowenthal (D-Long Beach). … “
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