Guided by Nature, Governed by Law with Michael Rogner & Karrigan Börk

In this episode of the Fish Water People Podcast, Michael Rogner, Associate Director of Restoration Science at River Partners, discusses large-scale riparian habitat restoration in California's Central Valley. Rogner explains how his organization transforms former agricultural lands into native habitats, focusing on restoring the Sacramento River's ecosystem. By converting fallow fields into native landscapes, River Partners has restored 20,000 acres, creating multiple benefits including flood control, groundwater recharge, wildlife habitat, and community access to green spaces. He highlights projects like Dos Rios State Park, which demonstrates how ecological restoration can improve public safety, support biodiversity, and provide recreational opportunities.

Karrigan Börk, a UC Davis law professor and director of the UCD Center for Watershed Sciences, also joins the conversation and delves into the complex world of California water law. Bork explains the historical development of water rights, including riparian and appropriative rights, and how the public trust doctrine has evolved to protect ecological interests. He uses examples like the Mono Lake case to illustrate how legal frameworks can drive environmental protection, discussing how state and federal laws like the Clean Water Act and Porter-Cologne Act interact to regulate water use.

Listen to more episodes at caltrout.org/podcast