California Governor Pledges to Remove Dams to Restore Salmon Populations

Despite Newsom's efforts, critics argue his water policies favor agriculture over endangered species.

California Governor Gavin Newsom has pledged to expedite several dam removal projects aimed at restoring salmon populations in the state.
Newsom's plan includes the removal of Scott Dam and Cape Horn Dam along the Eel River, which would open up 288 miles of habitat for salmon.
Newsom also plans to remove the nearly 100-year-old Rindge Dam along Malibu Creek and the Matilija Dam in Ventura County, which are no longer functional.
Despite these efforts, critics argue that Newsom's water policies favor large-scale agriculture over the needs of the salmon and other endangered species.
Newsom's plan also includes controversial voluntary agreements with farmers about the amount of water they can extract from rivers and streams, a move that has been criticized as 'astonishingly weak' by environmental groups.