By Matt Johnson, Senior Environmental Scientist for the California Department of Fish and Wildlife Climate change including multi-year droughts, extreme flooding, and extreme weather swings negatively impact California.  Aridification of our ecosystem, and multi-year droughts are damaging to cold-water-dependent species such as Chinook salmon.  Such is the case with the current drought we are experiencing, … Continue reading “CDFW is Partnering on Experimental Programs to Aid Listed Chinook Salmon Recovery During the Drought and Help Ensure Long-term Resiliency”

The Governor’s January Budget forecasts General Fund revenues will be $29.5 billion lower than at the 2022 Budget Act projections, and California now faces an estimated budget gap of $22.5 billion in Fiscal Year (FY) 2023-24. Governor Newsom proposes using the bulk of the recent surplus to boost the state’s budget reserves and pay down … Continue reading “Governor’s January Budget Overview”

By David Guy We are living in an interesting moment in California, as we are simultaneously watching a serious flood emergency while preparing for a dry year and operating under the Governor’s drought proclamations and orders. This seems like a paradox, but it instead reveals the nature of California, with the weather whiplash that graces … Continue reading “A Paradoxical Moment in California Water Policy: The Time for Action”

By David Guy As we all gather with family and friends for the holidays, this is a nice time of the year to reflect on what is essential in our lives. The past several years have revealed many vulnerabilities in our society as we have all come to a deeper appreciation for both our health … Continue reading “What is Essential: Thinking about Population Health and Wellness in Our Communities”