California State Water Board releases draft Delta regulatory plan

The State Water Resources Control Board has released a final draft of its regulatory plan regarding freshwater flows through the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. The proposed Water Quality Control Plan includes restoration incentives and is currently open for public comment until September 18, with a final adoption consideration scheduled for October 28.

Critics of the state's current water management approach, including leaders from Restore the Delta and the Winnemem Wintu Tribe, have raised concerns regarding transparency and community engagement. They argue that projects such as the Delta Conveyance Project and various voluntary water agreements are being advanced through closed-door dealmaking. These advocates highlight the impact of water diversions on commercial salmon fishing and the ongoing struggle for Native American water rights.