The State Water Resources Control Board held a workshop on November 22, 2024, focusing on updates regarding the Bay-Delta Plan, with significant concerns raised about the impact on the Trinity River and its salmon populations. Representatives from Save California Salmon voiced strong opposition to the draft plan, arguing that it designates the Trinity River as a "salmon sacrifice area," which they believe undermines the river's ecological health and the rights of local tribes.

Key points of contention included the lack of inclusion and transparency in the voluntary agreements (VAs) process, which stakeholders claim excluded Trinity River tribes and other local interests. The representative emphasized that the current draft plan fails to address critical issues such as temperature-dependent mortality of salmon, which could lead to severe declines in fish populations, particularly during drought conditions.

Concerns were raised about the potential depletion of cold water supplies from the Trinity Reservoir, which is essential for maintaining fish habitats. The representative highlighted that the draft plan does not incorporate best available science for managing temperature impacts and lacks a monitoring plan to assess the effects on the Trinity River. They warned that without immediate action and collaboration with local tribes, the plan could result in catastrophic fish kills similar to those experienced in past droughts.

The discussion underscored the broader implications for local economies reliant on fishing and the preservation of tribal rights. Stakeholders called for a reevaluation of the draft plan to ensure that it aligns with environmental protections and the needs of the Trinity River ecosystem. The workshop concluded with a call for more inclusive dialogue and a commitment to safeguarding the river's health for future generations.