1. Streambed Vegetation Management: You CAN Act in Emergencies Without Prior Approval Sarah Paulson, Environmental Program Manager with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), addressed the board on the streambed permitting process — a major concern for landowners along Cottonwood Creek and other waterways choked with debris and vegetation since the 2023 floods. The critical message for growers: if there is an imminent threat to life or property, you can begin emergency cleanup work immediately and submit the required notification to CDFW within 14 days — no pre-approval needed, and there is no fee. Paulson emphasized that landowners should not be "terrified" to act. With climatologists forecasting a potentially large water year this coming winter, growers whose streams are clogged should either begin the standard permit process now or be prepared to use the emergency notification process if conditions deteriorate. Staff is working with Tulare County to organize a broader public meeting (targeted for mid-September) to walk landowners through the process.
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