The recent Bay-Delta Updates Workshop held by the State Water Resources Control Board on November 22, 2024, has sparked significant debate regarding the proposed voluntary agreements (VAs) aimed at managing California's water resources. Critics argue that these agreements may exacerbate existing environmental issues rather than resolve them, raising concerns about their effectiveness in protecting the state's wildlife and waterways.

During the workshop, several speakers, including environmental advocates and representatives from organizations like Defenders of Wildlife and the Golden State Salmon Association, voiced strong opposition to the VAs. They contend that the agreements are fundamentally flawed and could lead to regulatory backsliding, further endangering the Bay Delta Estuary and its tributaries. John Rosenfield, a key speaker, emphasized that the VAs lack the necessary assets to support beneficial uses and achieve the intended objectives, suggesting that they merely "apply lipstick to a pig."

A central theme of the discussions was the legal implications of the VAs. Critics highlighted that the proposed agreements could violate the Clean Water Act and the Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act by establishing different water quality objectives for various parties. They argued that this approach undermines the board's authority and could lead to inequitable water distribution, particularly during drought conditions.

The workshop also addressed concerns about the curtailment of water rights under the VAs. Barry Nelson from the Golden State Salmon Association pointed out that the agreements could exempt signatories from curtailment orders during critical drought years, potentially allowing rivers to run dry and harming fish populations. This scenario raises alarms about the long-term sustainability of California's water resources and the health of its ecosystems.

In response to these critiques, board members acknowledged the complexity of the issues at hand and the need for a balanced approach that protects both water rights and environmental standards. They expressed a commitment to further discussions and analysis to ensure that any regulatory framework established would be effective and enforceable.

As California continues to grapple with water scarcity and environmental degradation, the outcomes of these discussions will be crucial in shaping the future of the Bay Delta and its vital ecosystems. The board is expected to consider the feedback received during the workshop as it moves forward with the Bay Delta Plan update process, with the aim of finding a solution that meets both regulatory requirements and the needs of local communities.