The San Joaquin River (shown as a yellow line) is California’s second largest river, and it is a major tributary to the Bay-Delta. Historically, this river supported a thriving fishery and riparian ecosystem.

After four years of settlement negotiations, the Friant Water Users Authority ultimately rejected the final proposal of the 9th Circuit Mediator, sending NRDC v. Rodgers back into active litigation. During those four years of collaboration, however, several important joint scientific studies and pilot projects were conducted, and documents assembled. These include the jointly developed Background Report, the Water Supply Study, and the nearly completed Restoration Strategies Report which will provide a critical blueprint for long-term river restoration.

Links:

Water Supply Study - Executive Summary
(45 page .pdf file)
This study was jointly developed by NRDC and the Friant Water User Authority and describes several bundles of actions which together provide the water supply needed for restoring the San Joaquin River.

San Joaquin River Restoration Plan Background Report Introduction and Contents
(60 page .pdf file)
The background report provides a comprehensive picture of the historic and existing conditions of the San Joaquin River. Sections within the report cover such topics as hydrology, geomorphic processes, salmonids, riparian and wetland habitats, water supply infrastructure and land use. Also discussed are some of the major opportunities and constraints to restoration of the rivers physical and biological processes including salmon.