SACRAMENTO, Calif. — California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) has agreed with several organizations to improve the ecosystem around the Eel River.
Cal Trout, a non-profit conservation organization, announced on Friday that it signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to address infrastructure in the region with the leaders of the Round Valley Indian Tribes and CDFW, along with Humboldt County, Mendocino County Inland Water and Power Commission, Sonoma Water, and Trout Unlimited California.
The 30-year agreement, which uses revenue from mutual fundraising efforts, mandates a joint commitment from partners to complete a diversion dam that creates a free-flowing river. The deal also includes a new facility at the diversion dam. All parties are committed to supporting the removal of the last two dams on the Eel, making it the longest free-flowing river in the state.
“This historic pledge demonstrates the power of regional cooperation and shared commitment to problem-solving,” said Cal Trout Legal and Policy Director Redgie Collins. “The future of California’s fish, water, and people rely on solutions like this—ones that integrate environmental priorities, tribal sovereignty, and water security.”
CDFW has committed $18 million toward the design and cost of modernizing the New Eel-Russian Facility (NERF) and supporting the Eel River Restoration Fund outlined in the MOU.
Cal Trout said the agreement was signed to advance a water diversion agreement associated with the decommissioning of the Potter Valley Project by PG&E on Jan. 31, 2025, and removing the Scott and Cape Horn dams.
According to Cal Trout, the signing marks a critical step in the recovery of the Eel River and its once-abundant salmon fishery.
“This groundbreaking partnership, made possible through Round Valley Indian Tribes’ vision and dedication, shows how we can modernize water management while prioritizing both ecosystem health and community needs,” Cal Trout said.
Cal Trout lists restored salmon runs, enhanced Tribal sovereignty, a secured water supply, and regional collaboration as the agreement’s “key wins.”
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