SACRAMENTO

Kim Delfino, California program director, issued this statement on Governor Newsom's announcement to sue the Trump administration over the recently released biological opinions:

“We applaud Governor Newsom for his decision to challenge the Trump administration’s flawed and illegal biological opinions. How the federal government manages the Central Valley Project has enormous impacts on the long-term health of the Bay Delta ecosystem and the species and communities that depend on it.  

“It is imperative that these biological opinions are challenged to ensure that stronger protections are put in place if there is any hope of reversing the current decline in the Bay Delta system. It is also imperative that the State Water Project is operated with science-based protections for fish, wildlife and water quality.

“Today, the Governor Newsom showed his willingness to defend against federal efforts to undermine environmental protections in the Bay Delta as part of his overall water agenda.  Moving forward, he must ensure that the State Water Project and other water users operate consistently with state law and do what is necessary for the recovery of the Delta and its fishery.”

For over 75 years, Defenders of Wildlife has remained dedicated to protecting all native animals and plants in their natural communities. With a nationwide network of nearly 2.1 million members and activists, Defenders of Wildlife is a leading advocate for innovative solutions to safeguard our wildlife for generations to come. To learn more, please visit https://defenders.org/newsroom or follow us on X @Defenders.

  

Media Contact

News

Image
A Transient orca jumps out of the water, making an arch with its body. It's back half and tail are almost completely covered with a white wave, splash.
Salem, OR

Defenders and Partners Urge Oregon State Action on Wildlife Conservation Bill as Two Senators Block Bipartisan Effort

A landmark bill to fund wildlife conservation in Oregon is being held up in the State Senate, despite passing the House with strong bipartisan support and clearing Senate Rules.
Image
elk landscape
Washington, D.C.

New Assault on Public Lands Betrays Will of American People

Defenders of Wildlife slammed Senator Mike Lee’s (R-UT) most recent attempt to sell off our nation’s public lands through a provision in the Senate’s budget reconciliation bill for what it is – a brazen betrayal of the will of the American people.