The California Water Code requires that when considering the appropriation of water, the State Water Resources Control Board consult with the Department on amounts of water needed for fish and wildlife. DFG reviews all applications to appropriate and transfer water. As a result of these reviews, the Department may file protests or complaints to avoid impacts on fishery resources. The Statewide Water Planning Unit is focused on developing guidance and coordinating response so the Department has a consistent response to potential threats on fish and wildlife.

DFG Water Rights Program Documents

DFG also reviews the applications of hydroelectric power generation being considered for licensing or relicensing by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). Staff assesses the likelihood of impacts on fish and wildlife resources, mechanisms to avoid impacts, and development of mitigation and enhancement measures.  The Statewide Water Planning Unit tracks projects with statewide and unique implications and facilitates DFG regional staff interactions with FERC. Other reviewing agencies include the State and Regional Water Quality Control Boards, National Marine Fisheries Service, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

For many fisheries, cool and clean water is needed to conserve and protect fish and wildlife. Water Branch staff participate in a number of water quality-related activities including water quality objectives development, total maximum daily loads, identifying waters that do not meet water quality standards, development of conservation measures that focus on water pollutants, defining and monitoring of wetlands, and providing to other agencies expertise on fish and wildlife resources.

DFG is required by the Public Resources Code (sections 10000-10005) (PDF) to develop flow recommendations for watercourses and streams throughout the state for which minimum flow levels need to be established in order to assure the continued viability of fish and wildlife resources. These flow recommendations are considered by the Water Board in regulatory actions related to appropriation of water and other planning activities. Statewide Water Planning staff coordinates the development priorities for instream flow recommendations, manage studies to identify needed flows, and prepare flow recommendations.

DFG Instream Flow Program Documents

The California Water Plan provides a framework for water managers, the legislature, and the public to consider options and make decisions regarding California’s water future. The Department participates on the development of the Water Plan to provide expertise of fish and wildlife resources and to offer Department priorities for water-related actions that may enhance fishery resources.