At their ranch in Scott Valley, about 40 miles from the Oregon border—Theodora and Dave Johnson saddle up their horses to drive their cattle herd to a fresh pasture. As sixth-generation ranchers, they enjoy their way of life, but like other ranchers, they’re worried state-imposed water restrictions for livestock and irrigation could threaten their livelihood.
The California State Water Resources Control Board issued two orders, effective July 25, restricting surface and groundwater diversions for agricultural use in the Scott River watershed.
The orders require an immediate stop of the use of any water from diversions.
The restrictions do not apply to water used in firefighting efforts and allow exceptions for those under evacuation orders, which are still in place “in some areas of the watershed” due to the Shelly fire, which was 92 percent contained as of Aug. 6 after burning more than 15,000 acres. Further extensions will be given for up to 15 days after the evacuation order is lifted. […]
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