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It’s not every day that you get to take part in a historic moment. Last Thursday was one of those days where I had to pinch myself and ask, is this real life? Is this really my day job?
On Thursday February 13, an MOU was signed between the Round Valley Indian Tribe, Mendocino County Inland Power & Water Commission, County of Humboldt, Trout Unlimited, CalTrout, Sonoma Water, and the California Department of Fish & Wildlife. This couldn’t have happened without the leadership of Secretary Wade Crowfoot and California Department of Fish and Wildlife Director Chuck Bonham.
This MOU will support water security for Sonoma County. It will allow us to continue to provide more than 600,000 people in Marin and Sonoma Counties with drinking water. It will support agriculture in Mendocino and Sonoma Counties. In the lower Russian River, it will support maintaining our minimum instream flows which is critical for native fish and our summertime economy. This is a big deal for us here locally.
But much more importantly… this MOU will begin to right a wrong that started one hundred and twenty-five years ago.
Ground was broken on the Potter Valley Project in 1900. Think about that: 125 years of the Russian River Watershed taking, without asking, from the Eel River Watershed, all because some guy had the bright idea to punch a hole through a mountain. 125 years of impacts to Tribal culture, fisheries, riparian and estuarine ecosystems. 125 years of a transactional relationship that only went in one direction. The Eel River was treated like a bank that we only ever withdrew funds from.
Last week we committed to taking water only in high flows. This is known as the “run of the river” solution, and the “two basin” solution. And what’s more: we committed to compensating the People and the lands that have been harmed by this transfer for more than a century. The sovereignty of the Round Valley Indian Tribe is honored as the holders of the water rights. The Tribe will be receiving annual payments for as long as the water flows between the watersheds. Additional annual payments will go towards an Eel River Restoration fund.
In my 8 years in government I’ve never witnessed such diverse interests come together to make the world a better place. Tribal leadership. Local governments who were on opposite sides of a 125 year deal (with some of us benefitting, and some of us being harmed). Environmental groups. A state agency more accustomed to regulating than creating. We all stepped out of our comfort zones and did something today. Was it a compromise? Absolutely. Was it perfect? Absolutely not. We still have a long way to go — to honor our agreement, and to ultimately transition to a self-sufficient Russian River watershed.
But it felt like the arc of the universe bent a little bit more towards justice on that day. And it was an honor to be there and be part of it. We CAN change the world. It starts with respecting and honoring each other, and history. ❤️
~ Lynda
PS: Oh, and earlier last week, Save the Redwoods League went public with an acquisition that many of us have been working on for years — to permanently preserve and protect 1,500 acres in Monte Rio and turn it into a Regional Park that will connect with other public lands all the way to the coast. So it was a pretty amazing week. I know sometimes it feels like the world is spinning out of control, but y’all, I promise… there’s good news, too!
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February Atmospheric River | |
Emergency Response Survey - Closes TOMORROW Friday 2/21/25 | | |
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Were you affected by the recent storm? The Atmospheric River that began on Feb. 4 caused widespread disruptions in Sonoma County, especially in the lower Russian River area.
The Department of Emergency Management is gathering community feedback to better prepare for future storms.
📢 Tell us about your experience:
✅ What challenges did you face?
✅ What worked well during the storm?
Your input will help shape future emergency response efforts. The survey takes about seven minutes to complete. You may choose to remain anonymous.
Thank you for helping us build a more resilient community!
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Emergency Declaration & Eviction Moratorium | |
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Last week, the Board of Supervisors ratified a local disaster proclamation in response to storm damage from the atmospheric river. As part of that action, the Board invoked Section 8 of the Residential Tenancy Protections Ordinance, which temporarily restricts most residential evictions for tenants who cannot pay rent because of the storm’s impacts.
These protections remain in effect while the local state of emergency is active (and for 30 days after it ends), although tenants remain responsible for ultimately paying any outstanding rent. The moratorium is scheduled to return to us at the February 25 meeting to refine the geographic area covered.
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Spring Into Action: Why Now Is the Time to Remove Scotch Broom (and French Broom) | |
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Scotch Broom and French Broom may look bright and cheerful in spring, but don’t be fooled—these invasive shrubs are a major wildfire hazard and a serious threat to native ecosystems. They spread aggressively, outcompete native plants, and create dense thickets of highly flammable fuel.
Why March & April? This is the ideal window for removal because broom is in bloom, making it easy to spot. More importantly, the seed pods haven’t matured yet, so pulling or cutting the plants now prevents future spread.
How to Remove It (and How NOT To!):
✅ Pull it out by the roots while the soil is moist. Use gloves or a weed wrench for larger plants.
✅ Cut and leave it on the ground if flowering, as seeds haven’t developed yet.
❌ Do NOT mow it! Broom re-sprouts aggressively when cut at the base, making the problem worse.
❌ Avoid ineffective herbicide use—spraying broom requires full coverage, which is difficult to achieve.
Let’s tackle broom before it takes over—our forests and fire safety depend on it!
Want to learn the full strategy, including how to stop it from coming back? Watch this Fire Safe Sonoma speaker series presentation with Jason Mills to learn more.
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Sonoma Land Trust Presents:
Language of the Land Webinar on Climate Change
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Hydroclimate whiplash is a phenomenon that refers to the rapid swings between intensely wet and dangerously dry weather, and it's increasing worldwide. But what does it mean for the quality of life, for wildlife, and for food production in California, as land becomes increasingly overwatered, oversaturated, and then excessively dried?
And what can we do to act now? Sonoma Land Trust is bringing Dr. Daniel Swain to share his knowledge and break it down for us in their next Language of the Land webinar on Wednesday February 26 at 6pm.
Dr. Daniel Swain is a climate scientist who focuses on the dynamics and impacts of extreme events on a warming planet. During the webinar, he'll dive into climate meteorology and also talk about how the experience of near-coastal denizens may differ from those farther inland.
🔊 Spanish interpretation will be available.
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Canyon Rock Asphalt Facility: Use Permit, Zoning Change, and Reclamation Plan Amendment application | |
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Our office has received a number of inquiries regarding this project and we are tracking it. A scoping process was conducted in late summer 2023, allowing agency staff and the public to comment on the environmental issues to be addressed in the Draft Subsequent Environmental Impact Report (DSEIR)
Technical documents are currently being prepared to support the DSEIR, which is expected to be available for public review and comment by Fall 2026. After its circulation, the Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on the project, followed by a final decision from the Board of Supervisors at a separate public hearing.
Our office cannot take public positions on this project, as doing so could impact our ability to objectively review it when it reaches the Board of Supervisors for official action. To ensure Supervisor Hopkins is not conflicted out, she must refrain from speaking for or against the project at this time. We will continue to track the issue and will update the community when the application reaches a stage when comments will be gathered.
For further information, Stephen Schurke, the reviewer assigned to this project, is available to answer questions.
Stephen Schurke
Senior Environmental Specialist, Mining Program Coordinator
Permit Sonoma
County of Sonoma
2550 Ventura Avenue, Santa Rosa, CA 95403
Office: 707-565-1900
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Upcoming Meetings & Events | |
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Community Coffee / Cafecito Comunitario
Monday March 17, 8 - 9 AM
West County Services Center, 16390 Main Street
District 5 invites you to drop in to our "Cafecito Comunitario" on the third Monday each month. You don't have to stay; you can just stop by to visit with D5 staff, enjoy a delicious coffee, tea, hot chocolate and / or a pastry and then go about your day. Everyone is welcome; we look forward to seeing you!
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General Plan Community Workshop
Monday March 10, 6-7:30 PM
Guerneville School
14630 Armstrong Woods Road
The General Plan is a vital document that shapes County decisions on housing, transportation, jobs, services, and more. It’s time for an update to reflect our county’s evolving needs and align with State law.
This first phase focuses on creating a community vision for the future and setting the stage for the second phase, which will center on policy development.
Why is the General Plan important? It guides how we:
- Make Sonoma County a place where future generations will thrive.
- Provide a safe, reliable transportation system.
- Preserve parks, open spaces, and the natural environment.
- Support farmers, agriculture, and the local economy.
- Celebrate our county’s rich history and cultural heritage.
- Balance growth, tourism, and community needs.
Your Input is needed!
Your voice is crucial in shaping the future of Sonoma County. Attend a community workshop to share your vision and priorities. Workshops will be held in English and Spanish. Let’s create a vibrant future for Sonoma County together!
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Parents and Babies Support Group
beginning Thursday March 13, 10 - 11:30 AM
West County Services Center 16390 Main Street
In this FREE 8 week series for pregnant folks, new and new again moms, and new and new again dads, meet other parents who are going through it too. Get support from experienced therapists and learn about parenting and bonding with your infant, and get help with the emotional upheaval that is new parenthood. Babes in arms are welcome.
This group will be held in Spanish. Registration required. If you have questions, or to express interest in a future English language class, please call 707-585-6108 x1100 or email intake@calparents.org.
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Forestville Town Hall - Save the Date!
Thursday March 27
5:30 - 7:30 PM
El Molino Library
7050 Covey Road
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Lower Russian River MAC: Vacancies | |
Guerneville South / Pocket Canyon Alternate and Guerneville Alternate
We are now accepting applications for two alternate positions on the Lower Russian River Municipal Advisory Council (MAC), representing the Guerneville South / Pocket Canyon area and the Guerneville area. (see map)
The MAC plays a vital role in community engagement, providing input to the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors on a range of important topics. These include health and human safety-net services, land use, transportation and transit priorities, and general plan amendments. The MAC also reviews significant topics that will be heard by the Board of Supervisors, helping ensure local voices are heard on decisions that impact our community.
By serving on the MAC, you can act as a bridge between the county and your community—ensuring that local concerns and insights help shape policies and services.
Interested in applying? Visit bit.ly/MACapply for more information or to submit an application.
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Fifth District Supervisor Lynda Hopkins | County of Sonoma | 707-565-2241
Lynda.Hopkins@sonoma-county.org
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