Environment

General Overview

In 1974 the Agency hired its first environmental specialist to prepare environmental documentation, studies, and reports required by law. Today, staff within the Environmental Resources and Public Affairs Division come from a broad range of background and disciplines, including, biology, conservation, botany, fisheries, wildlife, herpetology, resource management, and environmental policy. Staff members evaluate the environmental effects of Agency projects, prepare the necessary documentation, and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local environmental regulations. Staff members also design and implement restoration projects with assistance from the Operations Division.

Chinook salmon in the Russian River Chinook Salmon jumping up the Agency's inflatable dam
See images of the Chinook migrating upstream, and learn more about their populations in the Russian River.
Natural Resources section provides environmental services related to fish and wildlife and their habitats, including research, restoration, and grants.
Environmental Compliance section provides staff support and documentation in complying with various federal, state, and local environmental laws and regulations.

Environmental Resources

The Environmental Resources group is comprised of two sections: Environmental Compliance and Natural Resources. Generally, this group provides environmental services related to the Agency's compliance with environmental laws and regulations.

All sections provide California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and/or National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) compliance which includes research, biological surveys, cultural resources surveys, impact assessment, preparation of environmental documents, public notification and review process, preparation of agenda item transmittal reports and resolutions, presentations, and mitigation measure development and monitoring. All sections obtain environmentally related permits such as California Department of Fish and Game Streambed Alteration Agreements, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Clean Water Act permits, and California Regional Water Quality Control Board Clean Water Act Certifications for Agency activities.