The Big Valley Band of Pomo Indians is ramping up efforts to rescue the Clear Lake Hitch, a fish species vital to the local ecosystem, as ongoing drought conditions lead to increasingly dry creeks in the region. During a recent presentation to the State Water Resources Control Board, tribal representatives highlighted alarming trends in fish stranding due to disconnected pools formed by low water levels.

Since 2011, the tribe's environmental department has conducted extensive creek monitoring, focusing on water chemistry and flow velocity. This data is crucial for understanding the spawning patterns of the Clear Lake Hitch, which migrate upstream to lay their eggs before returning to Clear Lake. However, as creeks dry up earlier in the season, many of these fish become stranded, unable to reach the lake.

In 2024 alone, the tribe reported over 65 rescues, saving more than 24,500 fry—young fish that are particularly vulnerable. The most significant rescues occurred in Coal Creek, where sedimentation from upstream erosion has exacerbated the problem. The tribe's observations indicate that disconnected pools are forming earlier each year, leading to increased fish mortality.

The tribe's efforts are supported by funding from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), allowing for more comprehensive monitoring and rescue operations. The collaboration with various agencies aims to address the broader environmental challenges affecting water availability and fish populations.

As climate change continues to impact water resources, the Big Valley Band of Pomo Indians is committed to protecting the Clear Lake Hitch and ensuring the health of local waterways. Their ongoing work highlights the urgent need for sustainable water management practices to safeguard both the fish and the community that relies on them.