This week, members of Congress and expert witnesses discussed the Trump administration’s plans for one of the West’s most contentious issues: oil and gas leasing on public lands.

High Country News, 6-30-17

We can't prevent the Big One, but we can give our homes a fighting chance against earthquakes

Sorry to disappoint, but reliable science tells us there is no such thing as earthquake weather. And although animals may pick up on a seismic wave that most humans don’t sense, the dog on your sofa and the cow in the pasture can’t predict earthquakes.

Los Angeles Times, 7-1-17

New hunt for old earthquakes in San Francisco and San Pablo bays

Synced as tightly as two geological clocks, the dangerous Hayward and Rodgers Creek faults have ruptured together before — and will rupture together again.

Mercury News, 7-2-17

DIVISION OF LAND RESOURCE PROTECTION

Marin IJ Editorial: Silveira pact buys time for county and owners

Marin County taxpayers are paying $260,000 per year for 10 years to keep the Silveira Ranch land east of Marinwood as a dairy ranch.

Marin Independent Journal, 7-2-17

DIVISION OF OIL, GAS, AND GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES

Latin America is going through an energy transformation, and it could be a huge benefit to the U.S.

From the northernmost point in Mexico to the tip of Tierra del Fuego in Chile, Latin American countries are experiencing an energy transformation.

Los Angeles Times, 7-3-17

CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

Small earthquake rattles near Frazier Park

Eyewitness News weather anchor Aaron Perlman reports a small earthquake struck Tuesday morning near Frazier Park.

KBAK-TV (Bakersfield), 7-4-17

CLIMATE CHANGE

Governor pushes for cap-and trade deal as deadline looms

Gov. Jerry Brown is working with lawmakers, business groups and environmentalists to reach a deal on extending cap and trade, California’s landmark program aimed at slowing global warming.

Associated Press, 7-4-17

Court rejects temporary block to the methane rule

A federal appeals court today dealt a setback to the Trump administration’s broad effort to rollback environmental regulations.

High Country News, 7-3-17

Trump administration cuts could stymie climate change research

Researchers working on climate-oriented science at UC Irvine are cutting or scaling back their programs in anticipation of budget cuts that reflect the Trump administration’s skeptical views about global warming.

Orange County Register, 7-4-17

Mapping The Potential Economic Effects Of Climate Change

Climate scientists agree that this century is getting much warmer and that such warming will likely bring economic pain to the U.S., but economists aren’t sure how much.

KQED-TV (San Francisco), 6-30-17

Climate change expected to fuel larger forest fires — if it hasn't already

Global warming will likely heighten the risk of large, more difficult to control wildfires scorching the western United States.

San Diego Union Tribune, 7-4-17

ALISO CANYON

Advocates: Your Gas Heater is Contributing to Climate Change

If you're interested in reducing your carbon footprint, conservation advocates say one good way is to replace your natural gas-fueled water heater, stove or pool pump with one that runs on electricity. The advocates are pushing state agencies to take action over the next few weeks.

Public News Service, 7-5-17

July 4 celebration helps Porter Ranch community recover from gas leak

For 19 years, Shepherd of the Hills Church has put on a Fourth of July fireworks show for the Porter Ranch community.

ABC Channel 7 Los Angeles, 7-4-17

Study of old gas wells has flaws, energy company says

A recent Harvard University study that suggests old underground gas storage wells in Westmoreland County could be prone to leaks is wrong, officials from the energy company that owns the wells say.

Trib Live, 7-4-17

DIVISION OF OIL, GAS, AND GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES

California sues Trump over methane

Donald Trump might be getting the idea that his largest state’s government doesn’t like how he’s running things.

Central Valley Business Times, 7-5-17

ALISO CANYON

Court Shuts Down Trump Administration’s Attempt to Give Polluters a Free Pass

In a huge victory for our health and the environment, a federal court on Monday struck down the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s effort to roll back Obama-era safeguards against methane pollution from oil and gas operations.

NRDC, 7-5-17

CLIMATE CHANGE

Jerry Brown to Announce a Climate Summit Meeting in California

Even before President Trump took office, Gov. Jerry Brown of California let it be known he was ready to do battle over climate change, vowing in December that California would launch its own satellite if Mr. Trump cut funding for federal space missions.

New York Times, 7-6-17

CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

Natural Disaster: 5.8 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Montana, Raising Supervolcano Concerns

Yellowstone National Park, which covers parts of Wyoming, Idaho and Montana, lies on top of a supervolcano that could effectively wipe out the United States if it were to explode. The last time it did, 640,000 years ago, it expelled 240 cubic miles (think about that) of rocky debris into the sky.

Newsweek, 7-6-17

Rare 5.8 earthquake strikes western Montana, the area's strongest temblor in at least 20 years

A rare magnitude 5.8 earthquake has struck western Montana, briefly plunging a town into darkness and powerful enough to knock down shelves and break glass, the U.S. Geological Survey said.

Los Angeles Times, 7-6-17

CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

Earthquake in Philippines kills 2, injures over 100

A strong, shallow earthquake shook the central Philippines on Thursday, leaving at least two people dead and injuring more than 100, including several in a collapsed building where others were trapped, officials said.

Associated Press, 7-6-17

DIVISION OF LAND RESOURCE PROTECTION

Trump budget cuts funding for RCD program (subscription required)

A key conservation program in the Tomales Bay watershed could be set back significantly if Congress approves the Trump administration’s proposed 2018 fiscal year budget this fall. The Marin Resource Conservation District has undertaken scores of projects at nearly two dozen ranches and dairies aimed at reducing runoff into the...

Point Reyes Light, 7-7-17

WATER

The California drought isn’t over, it just went underground

Evelyn Rios wept in 2014 when the well went dry at her home of 46 years – the home where she and husband Joe raised five children on farm-worker wages.

Water Deeply, 7-6-17

HYDRAULIC FRACTURING

Hanson: Fracking industry deserves our gratitude

Less than 10 years ago, America’s energy future looked bleak.

Mercury News, 7-6-17

DIVISION OF OIL, GAS, AND GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES

Op-Ed: Time is running out to stop Trump from opening California marine sanctuaries to oil drilling

Time is short if you care about preserving some of California’s greatest natural wonders and recreational opportunities. Six national monuments in our state are at risk, along with parts of all four of the national marine sanctuaries off the California coast — Channel Islands, Monterey Bay, the Greater Farallones and Cordell Bank.

Los Angeles Times, 7-7-17

Trump moves to open more public land to drilling in California

The Trump administration forged ahead with its commitment to boosting domestic fossil fuel production Thursday, directing more public lands to be opened for oil and gas extraction — a move that could bring new drill rigs to California.

San Francisco Chronicle, 7-6-17

Trump moves to open more public land to drilling in California

SFGate, 7-6-17

Sacgasco sets sights on California prospect

Australia-listed company Sacgasco is preparing to spud a well at its Dempsey appraisal and exploration project in the US.

Upstream, 7-6-17

CLIMATE CHANGE

Study Finds Temperature Adjustments Account For ‘Nearly All Of The Warming’ In Climate Data

A new study found adjustments made to global surface temperature readings by scientists in recent years “are totally inconsistent with published and credible U.S. and other temperature data.”

The Daily Caller, 7-5-16

Cap-and-Trade Deal Could Woo GOP Support, Anger Environmentalists

In recent months, Gov. Jerry Brown has made clear that an extension of the state’s cap-and-trade program will need GOP support.

KQED (San Francisco radio), 7-6-17

Here’s how Jerry Brown can truly build a lasting environmental legacy

Gov. Jerry Brown’s announcement that he will host the world’s climate leaders in San Francisco was well-timed. Ensuring he will remain relevant as his days in office come to an end, the event will take place in September 2018, at the height of the campaign to replace him.

Sacramento Bee editorial, 7-7-17

Napa County planners begin deliberating climate action plan

Napa County planners will take more than one meeting wrestling with a proposed greenhouse gas slashing plan affecting residents, farmers and business owners in areas outside of cities.

Napa Valley Register, 7-8-17

DIVISION OF OIL, GAS, AND GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES

Evidence of life beneath the Earth could transform the search for oil

Right now, in the hot, dark hell thousands of metres below your feet, there’s a sprawling Lost World teeming with life. It has been there for countless millions of years, yet its very existence has long been dismissed as a scientific impossibility.

The National, 7-9-17

US rig count jumps 12 this week to 952

The number of rigs exploring for oil and natural gas in the U.S. increased by 12 this week to 952.

Associated Press, 7-7-17

CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

What Causes Strike-Slip Fault Earthquakes? New Study Says The 'Lazy Earth'

A recent study has revealed extensive data on how strike-slip faults develop over time and eventually cause earthquakes at the Earth's surface. Researchers coined the movement of two plates in a strike-slip motion to follow the 'Lazy Earth' hypothesis.

Forbes, 7-9-17

CLIMATE CHANGE

Can We Stop Climate Change? Maybe, If We Take Steps Now to Stop Emitting Greenhouse Gases

Earth’s climate is changing rapidly. We know this from billions of observations, documented in thousands of journal papers and texts and summarized every few years by the United Nations’ Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.

Newsweek, 7-9-17

Jerry Brown, a global climate leader, fights to reach deal at home

As Gov. Jerry Brown pushes an international climate-change agenda, he faces a crucial test at home: ensuring that California’s signature program to tackle global warming survives into the next decade.

Bay Area News Group, 7-9-17

DIVISION OF OIL, GAS, AND GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES

Evidence of life beneath the Earth could transform the search for oil

The National, 7-9-17

US rig count jumps 12 this week to 952

The number of rigs exploring for oil and natural gas in the U.S. increased by 12 this week to 952.

Associated Press, 7-7-17

CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

What Causes Strike-Slip Fault Earthquakes? New Study Says The 'Lazy Earth'

Forbes, 7-9-17

CLIMATE CHANGE

Can We Stop Climate Change? Maybe, If We Take Steps Now to Stop Emitting Greenhouse Gases

Newsweek, 7-9-17

Here’s how Jerry Brown can truly build a lasting environmental legacy

Sacramento Bee editorial, 7-7-17

Napa County planners begin deliberating climate action plan

Napa County planners will take more than one meeting wrestling with a proposed greenhouse gas slashing plan affecting residents, farmers and business owners in areas outside of cities.

Napa Valley Register, 7-8-17

Jerry Brown, a global climate leader, fights to reach deal at home

Bay Area News Group, 7-9-17

DIVISION OF MINE RECLAMATION

County planning commission to consider sand mining near SR67

The San Diego County Planning Commission on Friday will consider a new sand mining project proposed for an industrial part of Lakeside.

The San Diego Union-Tribune, 7-10-17

HIGH SPEED RAIL

Build high-speed rail in the sky

Locally elected officials often talk a big game when it comes to the need for highway expansion and other roadway improvements in San Benito County. It’s just too bad they haven’t succeeded at solving the problem for many years, and now the area is experiencing an infusion of sustained housing growth that will further deteriorate traffic conditions.

SanBenito.com, 6-9-17

CLIMATE CHANGE

Jerry Brown, lawmakers announce California climate deal

Gov. Jerry Brown and top lawmakers late Monday announced a proposal to extend through the next decade California’s landmark program to regulate climate-warming greenhouse gases — known as cap and trade — which is set to expire in 2020.

Bay Area News Group, 7-10-17

Bill seeks to extend California’s cap-and-trade system to 2030

California’s greenhouse gas cap-and-trade system — one of the main weapons in the state’s fight against global warming — would be extended to 2030, under legislation that Gov. Jerry Brown and legislative leaders unveiled Monday evening.

San Francisco Chronicle, 7-10-17

Here’s What’s in the Deal to Extend California’s Cap-and-Trade System

California lawmakers have reached a deal that would extend the state’s landmark cap-and-trade program until the end of 2030, with measures to address concerns of both California businesses and environmentalists.

KQED (San Francisco television), 7-10-17

CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

Trump Proposes $12M Cut To Tsunami Warning System
President Donald Trump has proposed budget cuts to several warning systems, including a $12 million cut to the tsunami warning system.
KFI AM 640, Los Angeles Radio, 7-12-17

House panel expected to propose restoring funding for earthquake early warning system

Members of Congress on Wednesday are expected to approve a new budget plan that would maintain funding for a West Coast earthquake early warning system that President Donald Trump’s budget sought to slash.

The Daily Independent, 7-12-17

Engineers to simulate 6.7 earthquake at UC San Diego

Engineers will use UC San Diego’s shake table to subject a two-story structure to the forces produced by the 6.7 Northridge earthquake to look for ways to design tall wood buildings that can survive big temblors.

San Diego Union-Tribune, 7-13-17

Two Riverside officials reappointed to state earthquake panel

Riverside Councilman Mike Gardner and Riverside City Firefighters Association President Tim Strack will continue to serve on the state Seismic Safety Commission, Gov. Jerry Brown’s office announced Monday, July 10.

Press-Enterprise, 7-11-17

DIVISION OF LAND RESOURCE PROTECTION

Los Alamos Cemetery gains additional land for burial plots

A basic land swap between the county-owned cemetery in Los Alamos and neighboring Carrari family that actively works almost 2,000 acres of adjacent ranch land will result in additional burial space for the rural community.

Santa Maria Times, 7-12-17

Ag committee clarifies rules for commercial use

The San Mateo County Planning and Building Department sought to clear up common questions regarding commercial uses of farmland during the Agricultural Advisory Committee’s July 10 meeting.

Half Moon Bay Review, 7-12-17

CLIMATE CHANGE

Here’s why to support Jerry Brown’s cap and trade deal

Gov. Jerry Brown unveiled a re-envisioned cap-and-trade proposal, one aimed at winning support from Republicans, Democrats, industry and environmentalists. As in any compromise, no one gets everything they covet.

Sacramento Bee Editorial, 7-12-17

Jerry Brown says his climate plan is in danger

With his international reputation as a climate leader at stake, Gov. Jerry Brown moved Tuesday to defend his efforts to extend the state’s cap-and-trade program, which the veteran Democrat described in an interview as a crucial method to reduce emissions from greenhouse gases.

Sacramento Bee, 7-11-17

Beyond the triumphant rhetoric, Gov. Brown's cap-and-trade plan is stirring up angst

While rolling out their plan to extend California’s cap-and-trade program, Gov. Jerry Brown and legislative leaders have portrayed their proposal as a win on two fronts: reaching the state’s ambitious climate goals and tackling local air pollution.

Los Angeles Times, 7-11-17

Debate rages over California cap-and-trade deal, concessions to Big Oil

A new deal to extend California’s landmark climate program known as cap and trade was met with both praise and condemnation Tuesday as environmentalists, business groups and lawmakers worked furiously to untangle — and wrangle over — the complex proposal that could be up for a vote within days.

Bay Area News Group, 7-11-17

Brown’s cap-and-trade bill exposes fault lines of state politics

Gov. Jerry Brown’s bid to extend the state’s cap-and-trade system for fighting climate change illuminates some of the fault lines running through the Legislature — and through the governor’s own party.

San Francisco Chronicle, 7-11-17

Cap-and-trade deal heading for showdown

A hotly disputed agreement to extend California’s cap-and-trade program to 2030 partly reflects the power shift under way in the Legislature in which moderate, business-friendly Democrats are increasingly flexing their political muscle.

Capitol Weekly, 7-11-17

California climate deal takes aim at toxic air

A plan to extend California's signature climate initiative for another decade looks beyond cutting greenhouse gas emissions and takes aim at toxic air in the polluted neighborhoods around refineries and factories.

Associated Press, 7-11-17

CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

Thomas D. Elias: Going it alone on early quake warnings

Donald Trump’s company owns a golf club and other properties in California, but a look at his proposed budget for the fiscal year ending in September 2018 indicates the President may never have experienced one of this state’s frequent earthquakes.

Napa Valley Register, 7-10-17

Trump's budget would kill a crucial piece of a global tsunami warning system, sparking alarm in California and beyond

In 1964, a tsunami at least 20 feet tall slammed into Crescent City, Calif. The floodwaters came without a detailed warning, killing 11 people who did not get out in time.

Los Angeles Times, 7-11-17

Defying Trump, House panel is expected to propose restoring funding for earthquake early warning system

Members of Congress on Wednesday are expected to approve a new budget plan that would maintain funding for a West Coast earthquake early warning system that President Trump’s budget sought to slash.

Los Angeles Times, 7-11-17

DIVISION OF LAND RESOURCE PROTECTION

Fish or farms? A new battle rages over California water

Fish or farms? The House this week will tackle the question, which for years has triggered a tug-of-war between growers and environmentalists. It plans to vote on a Republican-authored plan aimed at sending more of northern California’s water to the Central Valley farmers who say they badly need it.

Sacramento Bee, 7-11-17

Agtech provides food for thought

The number of agtech startups continues to grow. That means new and better tools for the ag industry to produce more and better crops.

The Californian, 7-10-17

Passing along card fees a terrible idea

The Modesto City Council should reject the nickel-and-dime-you-to-death plan hatched by staff to “recover” bank fees. It’s a bad idea certain to enrage more than a few Modesto residents – the ones who have to pay it.

Modesto Bee, 7-10-17

FOR FUN

Immerse yourself in the Seven Kingdoms at in-the-works 'Game of Thrones' exhibition

Game of Thrones” fans, it’s not just the HBO series that’s coming up. Sure, long-awaited Season 7 will return starting Sunday. But there’s also an interactive “Thrones” traveling exhibition in the works that’s set to debut in fall.

Los Angeles Times, 7-13-17

CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

California Focus: Trump cuts earthquake warning system from budget

Sonoma Index-Tribune, 7-13-17

New Maps Detail Earthquake Faults On LA’s Westside

New and very detailed maps of earthquake faults on LA’s Westside could make a major impact on any new development in the area.

CBS Los Angeles, 7-14-17

Earthquake fault maps for Beverly Hills, Santa Monica and other Westside areas could bring development restrictions

Officials on Thursday released new draft maps showing the locations of earthquake faults in Santa Monica, Beverly Hills and the Westside, raising the prospect of development restrictions in areas directly above the fissures.

Los Angeles Times, 7-13-17

Congress votes to spare earthquake early detection warning system for California

If you worry about the when and where of earthquakes in California, say thanks to members of a congressional subcommittee that may help you sleep better at night.

ABC Channel 7 News, Bay Area, 7-12-17

CLIMATE CHANGE

Jerry Brown implores lawmakers on cap and trade: `Don’t throw this thing out’

Amid furious negotiations over a bill to extend California’s cap-and-trade program through 2030, Gov. Jerry Brown on Thursday made a rare appearance before a Senate committee, imploring the legislators to approve the proposal.

Santa Cruz Sentinel, 7-13-17

ALISO CANYON

Aliso Canyon Natural Gas Storage Leak’s Root Cause Still Unclear

The root cause analysis for the natural gas storage well leak at the Aliso Canyon facility in Southern California, which ended 18 months ago, is apparently months from completion, according to state officials.

Natural Gas Daily, 7-14-17

Gas Company Sues to End County Oversight After Massive Natural Gas Disaster

After a massive methane gas leak at SoCalGas’s Aliso Canyon underground gas storage facility displaced thousands of families and took more than 100 days to plug, many residents in surrounding neighborhoods felt the energy company had gotten off lightly with a $4 million fine and tightened outside oversight.

Courthouse News Service, 7-13-17

CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

Earthquake fault maps for Beverly Hills, Santa Monica and other Westside areas could bring development restrictions

Los Angeles Times, 7-13-17

State Geologic Survey Releases Latest Map of Hollywood Earthquake Fault

The California Geologic Survey today released the latest iteration of maps of earthquake fault zones in West Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Culver City, Napa, Santa Monica and Vallejo and in areas of L.A. and Napa counties. Within the borders of West Hollywood, the Hollywood fault runs along Sunset Boulevard from North La Cienega Boulevard on the west to Sunset’s intersection with Havenhurst and North Kilkea drives on the east. The fault moves north of Hollywood Boulevard after its intersection with La Cienega. The CGS map in an area it labels the Beverly Hills Quadrangle is posted below. The video above by Group Delta Consultants offers a trip along the zone.

WeHoVille, 7-13-17

CLIMATE CHANGE

https://account.sacbee.com/static/paywall/stop?resume=161666538

The fact is: Facts don’t matter to climate deniers

In an interview on CNBC’s “Squawk Box”, Energy Secretary Rick Perry falsely claimed that carbon dioxide was not the primary driver of the Earth’s climate. Instead, he offered, maybe it’s “the ocean waters and this environment that we live in.” (Umm, what?)

Salon, 7-16-17

(BLOG) DRAWDOWN climate change solutions 3: Microgrid and Geothemal

Digging a bit deeper into descriptions outlined in the book, DRAWDOWN, the compendium on HOW TO DRAWDOWN carbon in our atmosphers, we see alternative energy is way less expensive than conventional energy systems – and therefore apt to win out longterm in the energy wars. Our planet can survive and even possibly thrive if we learn enough about how to save it from the ravages of climate crisis now not later!

Petaluma Argus-Courier, 7-16-17

DIVISION OF OIL, GAS, & GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES

SoCal Gas pushes back on L.A. county and Cal/OSHA safety demands

Ever since one of its wells broke open causing the nation’s largest-ever uncontrolled natural gas leak, Southern California Gas Co. has been sued by hundreds of individuals and a number of government agencies. But now, the company is suing back.

KPCC, 7-14-17

Trump Administration Reviews Drilling Opportunity Off Northern California Coast

The Trump administration is reviewing deep-sea drilling opportunities in the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary off the coast of California.

CBS San Francisco, 7-14-17

CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

Congressional support keeps tsunami warning system afloat

Under the purposed Trump budget, the Tsunami early warning system could face cuts of up to 90 percent. The House of Representatives’ appropriations subcommittee voted Thursday to reject ending funding for the U.S. deep-ocean tsunami sensor network.

KPCC Radio, 7-18-17

State finds new active fault strands in Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Hollywood

On 13 July, the California Geological Survey released four preliminary Earthquake Fault Zone maps for parts of Los Angeles and Napa counties. The West Los Angeles coverage provides new active fault ‘traces’ (where a fault intersects the Earth’s surface) and ‘zones’ (the areas in which some faulting could occur in an earthquake) for the Santa Monica Fault, the Hollywood Fault, and the Newport-Inglewood Fault. And, yes, the Hollywood Fault is responsible for lifting up one of L.A.’s most sacred landmarks, the “Hollywood” sign atop the Santa Monica Mountain range.

Temblor, 7-18-17

CLIMATE CHANGE

Are California environmental regulations worth the costs?

The pros and cons of California’s aggressive environmental-protection policies have been a topic for debate again this month as state officials consider an extension of the “cap-and-trade” climate program.

OC Register, 7-18-17

DIVISION OF LAND RESOURCE PROTECTION

County amends forestry zoning to include other agriculture

It took a few months, but Trinity County has completed an amendment to its land-use zoning ordinance to allow development of agricultural activities on private lands once designated only for timber production.

Trinity Journal, 7-19-17

Napa County assessment roll increases by $2.4 billion

Napa County's assessment roll increased by $2.4 billion (6.88 percent) this year, the largest dollar increase in county history.

Napa Valley Register, 7-18-17

DIVISION OF MINE RECLAMATION

Mining in the desert: Woman miner was armed, ready to protect her property

You had to be a doggedly tough man to withstand the rigors of hardrock mining in our deserts.

If you were a woman willing to work in those same mines, well, you had to be a whole lot tougher.

Daily Bulletin, 7-17-17

CEMEX Shows Commitment to California Communities

CEMEX is building on our commitment to communities in California by hosting events for nearby students and their families that give them an inside look at certain facilities while teaching them about our operations.

Highland Community News, 7-17-17

DIVISION OF OIL, GAS, & GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES

Negotiations toward a Salton Sea consensus are progressing, water agency says

The Imperial Irrigation District has been using its clout as the agency with the biggest water entitlement along the Colorado River to press for California officials to live up to their commitment that they will keep the Salton Sea from turning into an environmental disaster.

Palm Springs Desert Sun, 7-18-17

CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

Tsunami advisory canceled after Russia 7.8 earthquake

A strong earthquake on the Russian side of the Bering Sea briefly prompted a tsunami advisory for parts of the Pacific, including Alaska's remote Aleutian Islands and Russia. The National Tsunami Warning Center in Palmer, Alaska, canceled the advisory because the tsunami no longer posed a threat.

Humboldt Beacon, 7-17-17

Magnitude 7.7 earthquake strikes near Nikol'skoye, Russia

The United States Geological Survey reports a preliminary magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck near Nikol'skoye, Russia on Tuesday.

SFGate, 7-18-17

Seismic safety wins a round in Trump budget battle

Congress has been pushing back against cuts in seismic safety funding proposed in President Trump’s budget.

Los Angeles Times, 7-17-17

CLIMATE CHANGE

Brown, lawmakers celebrate bipartisan cap-and-trade victory

California's signature initiative to fight global warming will get another decade of life after lawmakers from both parties joined Gov. Jerry Brown in extending the law credited with reducing the state's carbon footprint.

SFGate, 7-18-17

California Legislature Approves Climate-Change Measure

California Gov. Jerry Brown scored a major win for his climate-change agenda Monday night when the legislature approved an extension of the state’s cap-and-trade program.

Wall Street Journal, 7-18-17

DIVISION OF LAND RESOURCE PROTECTION

‘Woodcreek 66’ blocked for time being as judge rules plans in violation of state and local laws

Plans for a 60-unit residential unit proposed to be built outside Fairfield city limits have come to a halt, at least temporarily, after a Solano County Superior Court judge Friday ruled the site’s developer would be violating local growth control laws.

The Reporter News, 7-17-17

Gladstone Land Acquires Pistachio and Almond Farms in California for $13.6 Million

Gladstone Land Corporation (NASDAQ:LAND) (“Gladstone Land” or the “Company”) announced today that it has acquired four contiguous farms totaling 847 gross acres in Fresno County, California, for approximately $13.6 million. In total, the farms contain approximately 327 acres of pistachio trees and 318 acres of almond trees, all planted between 2002 and 2009. Upon acquisition, Gladstone Land entered into a leaseback agreement with the seller, a leading almond and pistachio grower, harvester, and processor, for a 10-year, triple-net lease that includes one, 5-year extension option. The lease consists of a fixed cash rent component plus a revenue-sharing component based on the crops harvested on the farms.

Nasdaq Globe Newswire, 7-17-17

WATER

State's first water market will allow farmers to buy, sell groundwater

Ventura County farmers can now buy and sell groundwater on a formal market.

Ventura County Star, 7-17-17

DIVISION OF OIL, GAS, & GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES

http://www.dailynews.com/business/20170719/aliso-canyon-deemed-safe-to-reopen-with-limited-natural-gas-injections-state-says

Aliso Canyon deemed safe to reopen with limited natural gas injections, state says

Despite a nearly two-year effort by activists to shut down the Aliso Canyon gas wells, state regulators on Wednesday deemed the facility safe to operate for now and said partial gas injection can resume to avoid energy shortages in Los Angeles.

Los Angeles Daily News, 7-19-17

Aliso Canyon natural gas facility that was site of massive leak can reopen, state says

The Aliso Canyon natural gas storage facility, where the largest methane leak in U.S. history forced thousands to flee their homes, can resume natural gas injections at a reduced capacity, state officials said Wednesday.

Los Angeles Times, 7-19-17

Aliso Canyon gas storage site cleared to reopen

California state officials on Wednesday cleared the way for resumption of natural gas pumping into an underground storage facility in the San Fernando Valley where a blowout spewed methane for nearly four months, sickening neighbors and driving thousands of families from their homes.

Ventura County Star, 7-19-17

Aliso Canyon pronounced safe to come back online

After 17 months of inspection and analysis of wells at the Aliso Canyon natural gas storage facility, state engineering and safety enforcement experts concluded Wednesday that the facility is safe to resume operations, although on a limited basis.

San Diego Union-Tribune, 7-19-17

Gas storage field that leaked methane gets reopening OK

California state officials on Wednesday cleared the way for resumption of natural gas pumping into an underground storage facility where a blowout spewed methane for nearly four months, sickening Los Angeles residents and driving thousands of families from their homes.

San Luis Obispo Tribune, 7-19-17

Los Angeles natural gas field to reopen, but fight still on

The planned reopening of a massive Los Angeles natural gas storage facility that spewed methane for months has only renewed the fight over its future.

Seattle Times, 7-19-17

The Latest: LA County will try to stop gas field reopening

An attorney for Los Angeles County says it plans to ask a court as soon as Friday to block the reopening of a major natural gas storage facility.

Lompoc Record, 7-20-17

Ban fracking on the Central Coast

Environmental activists have raised concern over fracking in SLO County.

New Times San Luis Obispo, 7-20-17

CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

Learn about ‘California’s Deadliest Earthquakes’ Saturday

Presentation at the Eastern California Museum focuses on ‘California’s Deadliest Earthquakes’

California is unique for many reasons, but its history of one-of-a-kind, deadly earthquakes is a feature that virtually every resident has either experienced or can relate to. Indeed, “waiting for the big one” is a situation shared by virtually every Californian in every region of the state.

Sierra Wave Media, 7-19-17

DIVISION OF OIL, GAS, AND GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES

Local Governments Are Suing Oil Companies for Ruining the Planet

One California city and two of the state's counties are suing fossil fuel giants over their contributions to rising sea levels and other symptoms of climate change that are impacting coastal communities.

Attn.com, 7-21-17

Aliso Canyon injections to resume, Stern responds

Regulators gave Aliso Canyon in Porter Ranch – where one of the largest methane gas leaks occurred – a green light, clearing the way for the gas storage site to begin operating again.

Santa Clarita Signal, 7-20-17

As State Clears Troubled Gas Field to Reopen, Governor Calls for It to Close

Two state agencies on Wednesday cleared the Aliso Canyon gas storage field to resume operations, while the same afternoon Gov. Jerry Brown called for it to eventually close.

Southern California Public Radio, 7-20-17

Decision won’t stop questions about Aliso Canyon gas field

The leaky natural-gas storage facility above the San Fernando Valley has been cleared by state regulators to resume operations under limits meant to balance safety and energy-supply needs.

Los Angeles Newspaper Group editorial, 7-20-17

Operations to resume at Aliso Canyon

State regulators this week cleared the way for natural gas injections to resume at the Aliso Canyon storage facility that has been largely out of service since a four-month leak in 2015-16, but the facility will be operated in a limited fashion primarily to prevent Southland energy shortages.

Los Angeles Our Weekly, 7-20-17

DIVISION OF LAND RESOURCE PROTECTION

Grant helps local farmers save water

A new crop of state funds announced last month will boost local efforts at helping farmers save water. The Department of Conservation is distributing $2.2 million to about 70 of the state’s nearly 100 resource conservation districts, including Ventura County’s, which will receive $46,209, the highest grant amount, officials announced June 16.

Simi Valley Acorn, 7-21-17

CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

At least two dead after earthquake rocks Greek island, Turkish coast

A powerful earthquake rocked a Greek island and resorts on the southwestern Turkish coast early Friday, killing at least two people and injuring hundreds.

USA Today, 7-21-17

2 dead, 500 hurt as 6.7 quake rocks Aegean Sea

A powerful earthquake has shaken shook beach resorts in Greece and Turkey, killing two tourists crushed when a building collapsed on a bar in the Greek island of Kos and injuring nearly 500 others across the Aegean Sea region.

Associated Press, 7-21-17

MINING

A mini gold rush has descended on Northern California

When asking seasoned miners about this year’s so-called gold rush in Northern California, it can be a challenge to obtain trustworthy information.

San Francisco Chronicle, 7-21-17

CLIMATE CHANGE

Compromise and hardball politics earned Gov. Brown a big legislative win on climate change

"One particular message to the agriculture industry was simple: You want Gov. Jerry Brown to be a friend or an enemy the rest of his term? Friends will support his climate change legislation, it was made clear. To business leaders: This legislation provides tax and regulatory breaks that you've long sought. Grab them now or forget it. To agriculture and business: You don't like this cap-and-trade program? Wait until you see what replaces it if it's not extended."

Los Angeles Times column, 7-20-17

Hydro, wind and solar make inroads in California's electric grid

Wetter weather and continued growth in renewable energy sources resulted in some big changes in electricity generation in California in 2016, according to numbers recently released by the California Energy Commission.

Los Angeles Times, 7-20-17

California is handling climate change all wrong

Gov. Jerry Brown has won praise for promising that California will live up to the Paris accord despite President Trump’s withdrawal from the treaty. He also signed a climate deal with China last month, and has unveiled plans for a global climate summit in San Francisco next year. Earlier this week, California lawmakers voted to extend the state’s cap-and-trade program for another 10 years.

Los Angeles Times commentary, 7-20-17

Sea level rise is accelerating in Florida, scientists warn

Clay Henderson has lived on the same block along the Indian River in New Smyrna Beach for 34 years. Living in a storm-prone state like Florida, you expect to see a river top its bank on occasion, but only in the past two years has Henderson seen it happen on sunny days.

Daytona Beach (Fla.) News Journal, 7-20-17

DIVISION OF OIL, GAS, AND GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES

Protesters demand permanent closure of Aliso Canyon gas facility

Some days, Nicole Cottrell said, her driveway smells like a busy gas station. Other days, it reeks as if someone has poured lighter fluid onto a bonfire.

Los Angeles Times, 7-24-17

Porter Ranch protesters urge Gov. Jerry Brown to ‘shut Aliso down’

Shouting “shut it all down!” nearly 200 protesters gathered in Porter Ranch on Monday evening to urge Gov. Jerry Brown to lean on state regulators to close the Aliso Canyon gas fields once and for all.

Los Angeles Newspaper Group, 7-24-17

Plans to reopen Aliso Canyon lead to L.A. County lawsuit

Los Angeles County is taking California to court. The county is suing the Southern California gas and state regulators, calling for environmental and safety studies to be conducted first, after it was ruled last week that Aliso Canyon could resume natural gas injections.

Santa Clarita Signal, 7-25-17

After Biggest Gas Leak In U.S. History, Aliso Canyon Field Set To Reopen

Almost two years after the biggest gas leak in U.S. history sprung from a Sempra Energy natural gas storage field in Southern California, the state is ready for the complex to reopen.

Bloomberg News, 7-21-17

Earthquake Expert Proposes ‘No Frack Zone’ around Critical Infrastructure

Energy regulators should consider five-kilometre exclusion zones to protect critical infrastructure such as cities and dams from an increasing number of earthquakes caused by hydraulic fracturing, says one of Canada’s foremost experts on seismic hazards.

TheTyee.ca (Canada), 7-24-17

"Fracking" Has Lost Its Faddish Sex Appeal

Every fad runs its cycle: The '50s gave us the hula-hoop, the '60s gave us tie-dyed t-shirts, the '70s gave us leisure suits, the '80s gave us Cabbage Patch Dolls, the '90s gave us Pokemon, and the '00s gifted us with The Atkins Diet (on which I once lost 36 pounds and then gained it all back in a single year).

Forbes commentary, 7-24-17

Trump administration seeks to repeal Obama fracking rule

The Trump administration is proposing to completely repeal Obama-era standards governing hydraulic fracturing on federal land.

The Hill, 7-24-17

CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

3.1 earthquake breaks near Pine Valley

A magnitude 3.1 earthquake occurred at 11:23 a.m. on Monday, roughly 16 miles east-northeast of Pine Valley, in the Tierra Blanca Mountains of San Diego County.

San Diego Union Tribune, 7-24-17

Geology report urges moving lighthouse; council to discuss fate Wednesday

Winter is coming. But instead of frosty undead armies like in the popular HBO series “Game of Thrones,” winter to Trinidad residents could mean the loss of the beloved Memorial Lighthouse if preventative measures aren’t undertaken.

Eureka Times-Standard, 7-24-17

DIVISION OF LAND RESOURCE PROTECTION

Agriculture zone shouldn’t force families off their land

A West Marin landowner is taking the county to court because he says Marin’s restrictive zoning across agricultural lands is preventing him from building a home for his son.

Marin Independent Journal editorial, 7-24-17

CLIMATE CHANGE

Arnold Schwarzenegger teams with Jerry Brown on climate change bill

Gov. Jerry Brown scored a major political victory last week when the Legislature voted to renew California’s signature climate change program for another decade.

Sacramento Bee, 7-25-17

Severe, chronic flooding will devastate California coast as sea levels rise, experts say

As glaciers melt amid the heat of a warming planet, scientists predict that coastal communities in the United States could eventually experience flooding from higher tides.

Los Angeles Times, 7-24-17

California Shows How States Can Lead on Climate Change

California, which has long been a pioneer in fighting climate change, renewed its commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions last week by extending, to 2030, its cap-and-trade program, which effectively puts a price on emissions.

New York Times editorial, 7-24-17

In California’s cap-and-trade vote, government did something right

At a time when both liberals and conservatives are deeply frustrated with the federal government, it is wonderful to see the California Legislature succeed in taking important action to protect the environment.

Sacramento Bee commentary, 7-20-17

Palo Alto, East Palo Alto could be hit hard by sea level rise

Palo Alto and East Palo Alto are among several regional bayside cities that could flood 26 times a year by 2060 if the global sea level rises by a “moderate” 4 feet, according to a new study by the Union of Concerned Scientists.

Bay Area News Group, 7-21-17

Climate change could mean a much wetter California

Californians have been bracing themselves for a drier future accompanying a warming climate. But research by scientists at the University of California, Riverside, suggests that the state may actually get wetter in the event of severe climate change.

Sacramento Bee, 7-19-17

Satellite Snafu Masked True Sea Level Rise for Decades

The numbers didn’t add up. Even as Earth grew warmer and glaciers and ice sheets thawed, decades of satellite data seemed to show that the rate of sea-level rise was holding steady—or even declining.

Scientific American, 7-19-17

Surprising Scientists, 2017 Could Be among Hottest on Record

This year is on track to be the second-hottest on record, surprising climate scientists who thought natural weather patterns could break a multiyear trend of record-breaking temperature increases.

Environment & Energy Publishing, 7-20-19

WATER

California Sues to Validate Bonds for Delta Tunnels Project

The California Department of Water Resources has filed a complaint for validation of $11 billion in bonds for Gov. Jerry Brown’s Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta tunnel project, California Water Fix, which cleared its final environmental hurdle on Friday.

Courthouse News, 7-21-17

DIVISION OF OIL, GAS, AND GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES

Ex-SoCalGas employee warned regulators of ‘potential catastrophic loss of life’ at Aliso Canyon

State oil and gas regulators approved resuming injections at the Aliso Canyon natural gas storage facility despite a warning by a former Southern California Gas Co. manager over potential “catastrophic loss of life” in the event of a major earthquake, Los Angles County court documents reveal.

Los Angeles Newspaper Group, 7-23-17

LA County's Aliso Canyon lawsuit says regulators ignored seismic risk

State utility and gas regulators ignored a top gas manager's warnings about the risk of earthquakes to aging wells at the Aliso Canyon gas storage field when they okayed it to resume operations, Los Angeles County said Friday in court papers.

Southern California Public Radio, 7-22-17

L.A. County sues over reopening of Aliso Canyon

L.A. County is suing state regulators and Southern California Gas Co. for failing to conduct required safety and environmental studies and to turn over public documents before reopening the Aliso Canyon natural gas facility.

Los Angeles Times, 7-21-17

LA County wants to block natural gas injections at SoCalGas’ Aliso Canyon facility

Attorneys for Los Angeles County plan to go to court Monday in hopes of blocking a re-start of natural-gas injections at the Aliso Canyon storage facility in Porter Ranch, despite state regulators’ determination that the facility is safe to resume limited operations.

Los Angeles Newspaper Group, 7-21-17

US rig count decreases by 2 this week to 950

The number of rigs exploring for oil and natural gas in the U.S. decreased by two this week to 950. A year ago, just 462 rigs were active.

Associated Press, 7-21-17

LA County Officials Move To Block Aliso Canyon’s Reopening

County officials are headed to court Monday to try to block the reopening of the Aliso Canyon storage facility in Porter Ranch.

KCBS (Los Angeles television), 7-24-17

LA County Tries to Block Gas Facility Reopening

Attorneys for Los Angeles County plan to go to court Monday in hopes of blocking a re-start of natural-gas injections at the Aliso Canyon storage facility in Porter Ranch, challenging a determination by state regulators that it is safe to resume limited operations at the facility.

Los Angeles City News Service, 7-24-17

Attorneys for LA County in court; Hope to block re-start of natural-gas at Aliso Canyon

MyNewsLA, 7-24-17

DIVISION OF LAND RESOURCE PROTECTION

Valley Ford turkey king sues Marin County, Coastal Commission over ‘forced farming’ law

Free-range turkey pioneer Willie Benedetti doesn’t want to work forever. Instead of raising fat birds for Thanksgiving tables, the 68-year-old farmer hopes someday to be playing with grandchildren in a house he’d like to build for one of his sons on his 267-acre ranch near Valley Ford.

Santa Rosa Press Democrat, 7-23-17

CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

In Congress, a move to save an earthquake early warning system from budget cuts

Experts have been building an early warning system for earthquakes up and down the West Coast, but President Trump’s proposed budget would cut all federal funding for the project.

Marketplace, 7-21-17

New earthquake maps put Culver City in two fault zones

The release of two earthquake maps that detail faults running through several Westside cities—including Culver City—have environmental experts and seismologists wondering how development could be affected in these largely tony Westside cities.

Culver City News, 7-21-17

Anniversary of 1952 earthquake reminds Californians to prepare for the unexpected

Today marks the 65th anniversary of the 1952 magnitude-7.5 Kern County earthquake—the largest earthquake to strike Southern California since the 1870s.*

Highland Community News, 7-21-17

On anniversary of massive 1952 quake, state says to get insured

Sixty-five years ago Friday, Kern County residents were jolted awake by a 7.3-magnitude earthquake at 4:52 a.m. — one of the biggest temblors in California history.

Bakersfield Californian, 7-21-17

Shortsighted budget cuts potentially disastrous

When experienced, knowledgable and well-respected scientists say they are worried about something — climate change, extinction of animal and plant species, volcanic activity, earthquake potential — I get worried, too.

Eureka Times-Standard letter to the editor, 7-21-17

Mammoth Lakes area hit by swarm of hundreds of tiny earthquakes

Hundreds of tiny earthquakes have hit the Mammoth Lakes area in California’s Eastern Sierra in recent days, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

Los Angeles Times, 7-23-17

MINING

Our sand is finally saved

The last coastal sand mine in the U.S. has operated on the shores of our Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary for 111 years.

Santa Cruz Sentinel commentary, 7-22-17

New Oregon designation to protect Smith River from mining

By designating the North Fork of the Smith River as the first Outstanding Resource Water, the Oregon Environmental Quality Commission added protections to ensure there is no degradation of its water quality in the future.

Crescent City Triplicate, 7-22-17

CLIMATE CHANGE

Giant California solar project cut back after environmentalists oppose it

Plans for what was once billed as one of the world’s largest solar power projects will be scaled back dramatically following years of opposition from three environmental groups who filed lawsuits over an endangered rat and other species they said would be harmed by its construction.

Bay Area News Group, 7-21-17

Brown’s cap-and-trade deal could eventually kill high-speed rail

A last-minute deal that Gov. Jerry Brown made with Republican lawmakers to win support for a 10-year extension of his signature climate program could cost the governor another top priority: high-speed rail.

San Francisco Chronicle, 7-21-17

Climate change lawsuits face uphill battle, but could have radical implications

Does a trio of new lawsuits aimed at forcing the world’s largest oil companies to pay for the projected effects of rising seas along California’s coast have a fighting chance?

San Diego Union Tribune, 7-23-17

Sea level rise could bring costly flooding in coastal communities within decades

As glaciers melt amid the heat of a warming planet, scientist predict that coastal communities in the United States could eventually experience flooding from higher tides.

San Diego Union Tribune, 7-23-17

WATER

Delta tunnel project takes another step forward

The proposal to build a major tunnel system under the hub of California’s waterworks won another approval Friday when the state finalized its environmental review of the project.

Los Angeles Times, 7-21-17

Let the lawsuits begin: Delta tunnels get official state green light

Gov. Jerry Brown’s administration gave the official go-ahead Friday for his controversial plan to bore two huge tunnels beneath the heart of Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta.

Sacramento Bee, 7-21-17

DIVISION OF OIL, GAS, AND GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES

Earthquake Analysis Urged Before Aliso NatGas Storage Field Reopens

The County of Los Angeles on Monday asked the Los Angeles Superior Court for an injunction to prevent the Aliso Canyon natural gas storage field from reopening until state regulators complete an earthquake and risk analysis.

NGI Shale Gas Daily, 7-25-17

Santa Barbara City Council Shows Symbolic Opposition to New Oil Drilling, Fracking

The Santa Barbara City Council on Tuesday voted 6-1 to send a symbolic message that it supports a ban on new drilling and fracking, and a phase-out of all oil and gas extraction along the Pacific Coast.

Santa Barbara Noozhawk, 7-25-17

CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

New Quake Maps Could Shake Up Development Plans in Santa Monica

The 1971 San Fernando (Sylmar) earthquake killed 64 people, buckled roadways and leveled scores of buildings. Soon after, California passed a law that requires updated mapping of major earthquake fault zones.

KQED (San Francisco television), 7-25-17

DIVISION OF LAND RESOURCE PROTECTION

County supervisors reject Chico subdivision near agriculture

A group of farmers got what they wanted Tuesday as the Butte County Board of Supervisors denied development of a 15-lot subdivision in a predominantly agricultural neighborhood.

Chico Enterprise Record, 7-25-17

CLIMATE CHANGE

‘Stop lying to the people’ on climate change, Schwarzenegger tells Republicans

Former California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger on Tuesday slammed President Donald Trump’s retreat from the world climate stage and challenged fellow Republicans to accept the science that spurred him to push cap-and-trade legislation.

Sacramento Bee, 7-25-17

Gov. Jerry Brown signs law to extend cap and trade, securing the future of California's key climate program

Cementing California’s role as a leader on climate change, Gov. Jerry Brown signed legislation Tuesday to extend the state’s cap-and-trade program while surrounded by a coalition of supporters including his predecessor, former Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Los Angeles Times, 7-25-17

Jerry Brown signs major climate change bill with Arnold Schwarzenegger by his side

Gov. Jerry Brown signed a landmark bill Tuesday extending California’s signature climate change policy and capping a major legislative victory that drew support from both parties.

Bay Area News Group, 7-25-17

California knocks Trump as it extends climate change effort

Gov. Jerry Brown and his predecessor, Arnold Schwarzenegger, stood side by side Tuesday to cheer the extension of one of the most ambitious programs in the U.S. to reduce fossil fuel pollution, while condemning President Donald Trump's failure to see climate change as a deadly threat.

Associated Press, 7-25-17

WATER

Delta tunnels project reaches key milestone as opponents may sue

The state has reached a key milestone in its $15.7 billion proposal to build tunnel bypasses around the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta as an environmental group is threatening to sue to stop it.

Capital Press Ag Weekly, 7-25-17

DIVISION OF OIL, GAS, AND GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES

Interests diverge over Monterey County’s Measure Z

The controversy over fracking in Monterey County is far from over even though Measure Z which bans it passed during the November 2016 election.

Salinas Californian, 7-25-17

Simi council delays oil pipeline vote over earthquake concerns

Concerned about how a crude oil pipeline that runs under Simi Valley would fare in a major earthquake, the City Council this week delayed a vote until October on whether to allow the conduit to continue operating for another 25 years.

Ventura County Star, 7-25-17

California’s marine sanctuaries may face new drilling threat

The same communities that fought for decades to protect California’s coast from offshore oil drilling have renewed their battle calls as the Trump administration considers opening 3,500 square miles of state waters to energy development.

San Francisco Chronicle, 7-26-17

CALIFORNIA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY

Quake maps won’t shakeup seismic rules

Proposed updates to the seismic maps covering Santa Monica and the nearby area will have little impact on the way local government regulates construction in geohazard zones.

Santa Monica Daily Press, 7-25-17

California quake-safety support is properly bipartisan

Who says bipartisanship in Congress is dead?

Los Angeles Newspaper Group editorial, 7-26-17

DIVISION OF LAND RESOURCE PROTECTION

One million acres of almonds

The final forecast for California’s record-breaking almond crop this year wasn’t as big as expected. It was bigger.

Stockton Record, 7-25-15

Ag buffer backed

For a subdivision proposal that had been through three public hearings over four months and generated reams of documentation, the end came fast. Getting there took a couple of hours, however.

Chico News & Review, 7-27-17

CLIMATE CHANGE

Californians show broad support for state's climate goals in new poll

Public support for the state’s battle against global warming remains strong and growing, according to a new poll from the nonpartisan Public Policy Institute of California.

Los Angeles Times, 7-26-17

Californians put high priority on environment, poll shows

As California emerges as a force on climate change and a counterweight to President Donald Trump, residents of the green-minded state widely support environmental actions taken by leaders in Sacramento, according to a survey released Wednesday.

San Francisco Chronicle, 7-26-17

Winter is finally coming to an end at California ski resorts

Last winter dumped so much snow on California’s peaks that at least one resort raised the possibility of staying open all summer, allowing skiers to ride the lifts until next winter’s snowfall.

Los Angeles Times, 7-26-17

WATER

It wasn’t too long ago valley was a big lake

“The Great Central Valley of the state is under water — the Sacramento and San Joaquin valleys — a region 250 to 300 miles long and an average of at least 20 miles, or probably three to three and a half million acres!” — William Brewer in his book, “Up and Down California in 1860 — 1864”

Turlock Journal column, 7-25-17

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