x
Breaking News
More () »

Trump administration unveils new water rules for California

An expert with the Natural Resources Defense Council says environmental groups will likely challenge the rules in court.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The Trump administration has unveiled a new plan to govern California's water usage that has alarmed environmental groups for its potential impact on endangered species.

The plan would give more water to farmers. An analysis by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service says the plan "will not jeopardize threatened or endangered species."

The plan includes spending $1.5 billion to support endangered fish. The government would also monitor rivers for endangered fish, with commitments to reduce pumping when they are present.

But Doug Obegi at the Natural Resources Defense Council says the monitoring programs don't work because endangered fish species populations, like the delta smelt, are too small.

He said it is likely environmental groups will challenge the rules in court.

RELATED: 

FREE ABC10 APP:

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play

Stay In the Know! Sign up now for ABC10's Daily Blend Newsletter

Before You Leave, Check This Out