by Ruth Atkins, Eel River Project Coordinator
As PG&E continues to move forward with decommissioning of the Potter Valley Project, CalWild was invited to work with constituencies from the region to create a shared vision for the future, beyond the question of whether or not dams should be removed.
Beginning in February 2024, taking a neutral position on the dam decommissioning, CalWild hired me as a coordinator for the information gathering process. Input was sought through multiple formats and CalWild made itself available to all interested parties in the region.
Seeking the input of Tribes first, emails and phone calls were made to set meetings via zoom, phone call or in person. Small group meetings were held with numerous groups with a history in the region. The goals of the project were clear: seek a vision for the region beyond the dam decommissioning conversation. By looking beyond the immediate dam conversation, we would build consensus on future projects and dreams, and perspective for a community connected by a shared desire and hope.
Conversations continue around the future of the Upper Eel Watershed. Tribal members, long-time residents, non-profit partners, government agencies, business entities and elected officials have shared their concerns and ideas for the region. Initial outreach to regional leaders and community members helped to identify wishes and needs regarding the future of the watershed, including creating fire-resilient landscapes, connected communities, the protection of cultural histories and traditions, and ideas, interests and priorities for projects which will benefit the area. While fire resiliency and infrastructure are the resounding concerns; connected trails, supporting the tule elk herd often seen near the Lake Pillsbury reservoir and a restored fishery are consistent themes among residents.
CalWild will convene three workshops professionally facilitated by Zephyr Collaborations this fall at the Robinson Rancheria Resort and Casino, to continue to gather and refine the community vision. The goals of the workshops are: to build a common concept for a vibrant, connected and resilient future for the landscapes, communities and economies of the Upper Eel region of the Mendocino National Forest, to build a list of possible projects and initiatives to achieve the vision, and to strengthen ties and working relationships among the partners and communities in the region to champion the projects and realize the vision.
Among the common themes we are hearing from interested participants are hopes that:
- Cultural histories are honored and protected; knowledge and wisdom are transferred to current and future generations
- Landscapes, waters and natural systems are healthy and resilient to disturbances from fire, invasive species, and changing ecological conditions
- Economies are stable and growing, support robust businesses, diverse employment for current and future generations, and sustainable revenue for local governments
- Communities are safe, with the ability to identify, respond to and escape from wildfires; using both Indigenous Knowledge and leading best practices to manage fuels and hardening homes and properties
- Recreation opportunities use and respect the beauty, history and health of the diverse landscapes and people in the region; giving neighbors and visitors ample opportunities to experience what the watershed has to offer
Bringing together community constituents in the fall, CalWild is here to listen and support the ongoing conversation. As the next opportunity for public comment on the PG&E decommissioning plan is expected in November of this year, we hope to use the findings of this project to as an additional voice for the community so that however the cards fall with the dam decommissioning process, the community’s wishes can be heard and addressed for the future.
This project is funded by the State Coastal Conservancy and the Resources Legacy Fund. Photo by Bob Wick, BLM.
