The State Water Resources Control Board convened on November 26, 2024, to discuss critical updates regarding the Bay-Delta Plan, focusing on the implications of voluntary agreements (VAs) and their impact on water management and environmental protections in California.

The meeting began with a review of the principles guiding the implementation of VAs, emphasizing the need for comparable outcomes across different water users. Concerns were raised about the lack of temperature protections, which have been identified as a significant factor in the decline of Central Valley salmon populations. Panelists highlighted that lethal temperatures have contributed to the collapse of salmon runs, exacerbated by climate change. The last time the board set flow and temperature standards was in 1995, a period when salmon populations were significantly higher than current levels.

The discussion progressed to the draft plan of implementation, which proposes to maintain existing water rights orders while waiving temperature control requirements for VA parties. Critics argued that this approach could lead to further declines in salmon populations, as it lacks enforceable temperature protections and could allow for inadequate flows during critically dry years. The board's proposal to delay the salmon doubling restoration standard was described as an insult to the fishing industry, which is already facing severe challenges.

Concerns were also raised about the potential for increased water user control and reduced regulatory oversight under the VA framework. The draft plan was criticized for lacking scientific support and for creating incentives for water users to join the VA process, which could lead to a significant reduction in environmental water dedicated to maintaining healthy ecosystems.

The board members engaged in a detailed discussion about the implications of the proposed curtailment strategies, particularly how they would apply to VA parties versus non-VA parties. It was noted that while all water users would be subject to availability determinations, VA parties would be exempt from certain curtailments, raising concerns about equity and the potential for environmental degradation.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the urgent need for a balanced approach that protects California's water resources while ensuring the sustainability of its fishing industry. The board acknowledged the complexity of the issues at hand and the necessity for further workshops to address the numerous concerns raised by stakeholders. The next steps will involve a careful analysis of the proposed voluntary agreements and their potential impacts on both water management and environmental health in the Bay-Delta region.