California Department of Fish and Game Releases Draft Ecosystem Restoration Program for the Delta

On August 2, 2011 the California Department of Fish and Game (“DFG”) issued a draft restoration plan for the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, titled "Draft Ecosystem Restoration Program Conservation Strategy."  The Ecosystem Restoration Program ("ERP") identifies promising ecosystem restoration opportunities in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and Sacramento and San Joaquin Valley Regions and provides the rationales for proposed restoration actions.

The ERP is designed to be part of a long-term comprehensive plan to restore ecosystem health and improve water management.  The ERP recognizes that the Delta Stewardship Council has also been directed to develop a Comprehensive Plan for the Delta ("Delta Plan") and notes that future coordination between DFG and the Delta Stewardship Council is planned.

DFG will accept comments on the current draft ERP until August 22, 2011.  Subsequently, it will develop a final draft in coordination with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service.

If you have any questions about the ERP, please contact Rebecca Akroyd from our office, or the KMTG attorney with whom you normally consult.

Related story: Delta Stewardship Council Releases Draft Version of Delta Plan

Related link: DFG Presentation to BDCP Public Meeting