The Current Magazine Winter 2018 | Page 52

During July of 2017, a Bill (HR23), authored by California Congressman David Valadao, passed 230-190 in the House of Representatives. Among other potentially dangerous results, the Bill specifically targeted the beleaguered Trinity. The Bill’s aim was to eliminate fish disease preventative flows and redirect more river to water contractors and irrigation districts in California's Central Valley.

According to Congressman Jared Huffman, the Bill underlines "...a newer development resulting from the Department of Interior's 2015 ruling on the recognition of Humboldt County's contract rights to 50,000 acre feet of Trinity water."

The Center for Investigative Reporting found that Deputy Director of the Department of Interior, David Bernhardt, was frequently consulted while the bill was being drafted by Valadao. According to the Center, Bernhardt, a former Westlands Water District lobbyist, was involved for "months after he had told the US Senate he had cut ties with the District." Not a great sign for transparency of interest.

While the Bill ultimately died in the Senate, the threat remains. In fact, earlier versions of H.R. 23 have been championed by Valadao over the past few legislative sessions. At a future date, it could be "...resurrected as a rider on an Appropriations Bill," observed salmon and water policy analyst Tom Stokely.

Craig's Corner

by Craig Ballenger, CalTrout Ambassador

The iconic tale of the holy Trinity River and the three threats that loom beyond the horizon of its canyon walls.