Title
Consider receiving an update on staff discussions with the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) regarding re-initiation of the Biological Opinion for the Salinas Valley Water Project
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Monterey County Water Resources Agency Board of Directors:
Receive an update on staff discussions with the National Marine Fisheries Service regarding re-initiation of the Biological Opinion for the Salinas Valley Water Project.
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
On August 5, 2016, the Army Corps of Engineers re-initiated consultation between the Monterey County Water Resources Agency and the NMFS on the Biological Opinion for the Salinas Valley Water Project. Discussions have primarily focused on providing passage opportunities in the Salinas River for South-Central California Coast steelhead during periods of consecutive dry winters. Steelhead are designated as threatened under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 and the Salinas, Nacimiento and San Antonio Rivers are identified as critical habitat for the species.
COMMTTEE ACTION:
The Reservoir Operations Advisory Committee received the update on September 27, 2018.
The Basin Management Advisory Committee received the update on October 3, 2018.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
None
FINANCING:
The is no financial impact to receive this report.
Prepared by: Howard Franklin, Senior Hydrologist, (831) 755-4860
Elizabeth Krafft, Senior Hydrologist, (831) 755-4860
Approved by: _________________________________________________
David E. Chardavoyne, General Manager, (831) 755-4860