California is a national and global leader for environmental solutions. But how does resource management in California actually work? We talk with the person who leads it all, California's Secretary for Natural Resources Wade Crowfoot, to find out how California approaches resource management and how the state tackles key priority areas including water, climate change, and outdoor access for all. Beyond California, we explore international conservation initiatives including the 30x30 initiative which strives to conserve 30% of lands and waters by 2030. CalTrout Lead Scientist Jacob Katz also joins the conservation as we explore the Sacramento Valley floodplains and the important sources of fish food that these natural landscapes can provide when activated.

How are people around the world interacting with water? We talk with award-winning journalist and National Geographic Explorer Erica Gies about her book “Water Always Wins: Thriving in an Age of Drought and Deluge”. In the Netherlands, we explore how the Dutch are helping to lead the way on progressive floodplain management techniques. In the Central Valley, we touch on how climate change is influencing groundwater supplies. We also bring beavers into the conversation! Nick Bouwes, an aquatic ecologist, shares his experiences at the forefront of efforts to re-introduce beavers back into watersheds here in the Western U.S.

History is being made right now on the Klamath River. By the end of 2024, four Klamath River dams will be removed — the largest dam removal and river restoration project in U.S. history. We talk with Amy Cordalis, a member of the Yurok tribe, about tribal empowerment, what a restored Klamath River means to native people, and her optimism for the future. Mark Bransom of the Klamath River Renewal Corporation also joins the conversation to walk us through the dam removal process, what we can expect from sediment release from the reservoirs, and post dam removal restoration activities. Join us for this deep dive into the Klamath with an extended episode of the Fish Water People podcast.

Fish Water People podcast host and CalTrout Executive Director Curtis Knight talks about all the great fishing to be had every month in California with George Revel, owner of Lost Coast Outfitters and long-time CalTrout Board of Directors member. George is a three-time National Fly Fishing Champion, rod designer, FFF Master Certified Fly Casting Instructor, and Past President of the Golden Gate Angling and Casting Company. Plus, Fly Fishing Ambassador and renown Trout Camp caretaker Craig Ballenger shares stories about CalTrout's Trout Camp from the very beginning to current day. Did you know there just might be buried treasure amidst the trees, beauty and fishing spots there? 

Our planet is changing drastically, but while nature is throwing a lot at us, it's also an amazing source of solutions if we take the time to learn how natural processes can aid in climate-change mitigation. Plus, nature-based solutions are often cheaper and come with a whole host of benefits that traditional infrastructure lacks. We talk with climate expert Felicia Marcus, an attorney, consultant, and founding member of the Water Policy Group, a fellow at the National Academy of Public Administration, and the William C. Landreth visiting fellow at Stanford University's Water in the West Program. CalTrout Associate Director of Policy Analise Rivero also joins the conversation as we discuss how crucial California water rights are, a topic that will impact us all, and we explore why California is so far behind other states in how we regulate water.

Fish Water People podcast host and CalTrout Executive Director Curtis Knight sits down with Congressman Jared Huffman to talk Governor Newsom’s Executive Order in the delta, the Potter Valley hydroelectric project, restoration work at Redwood Creek, the Yurok Tribe, California condors, and so much more. How do all of these topics intertwine with CalTrout’s work? We journey through the redwoods to find out. Congressman Huffman weighs in with his district’s perspective, and CalTrout Regional Director Darren Mierau also joins the conversation. Learn more about CalTrout and our work to ensure healthy waters and resilient wild fish for a better California. Visit caltrout.org.

At CalTrout, we work hard every day to restore California’s freshwater ecosystems and to keep them healthy for years to come, but we don’t do it alone. The Fish Water People podcast highlights the individuals who make our work possible, at CalTrout and beyond. Join podcast host and CalTrout Executive Director Curtis Knight as we talk about the science, policy, restoration, equity, and more that goes into making the changes we want to see in the world. And of course you can expect the occasional fish story! Learn more about CalTrout and our work to ensure healthy waters and resilient wild fish for a better California. Visit caltrout.org.