Crazy Times
by Tim Loomis
Our sport is facing an uncertain future. The demands of water by an ever growing population coupled with the ag business's required needs, all on top of a diminished water table leads directly to water troubles.
What we have here is a unique case of supply and demand. Our water demands far outweigh the supply that is available. The snow accumulation in the Sierras was initially rated as better than last year but a really dry April offset any gain we had.
Whatever the reason for the decline of the King Salmon run through the delta, the results echo throughout the fishing industry. The federal and state agencies are at odds as to what caused the crash. It doesn't take much to see that the root problem has to deal with water demands. Just how much water should the southern parts of the state be receiving? How much water do the ag businesses get? Fasten your seatbelts, water fans, because its only going to get worse. The Water Wars have begun. We are all now fully aware of how fragile the delta ecosystem is. Look no further that the Owens Valley to see the effects of the southern states water demands. The central valley Granges have created multiple lawsuits all in an effort to achieve a larger piece of the water pie.
Are central coast steelhead really ocean going steelhead or just rainbow trout that on occasion like to sample the salt water of the Pacific.? If that one case is decided against the central coast steelhead, say goodbye to the waters of the San Joaquin.
A plastic bottle of water costs more per quart that of gas. Which of the two, gas or water, can we live without? It's only going to get worse. Been up to the Mt. Shasta area lately? Ask anybody up there how they feel regarding the Nestles deal going on in McCloud.
What an impact that could have on some of the rivers at the base of Mt. Shasta; water flows and water woes. It's only going to get worse it...we don't act now. Pick a part of the state where you enjoy fishing. I bet the water there is imperiled. Make some calls, get involved and see how you can make a difference. The main thing is to get involved.