Environment

The state takes more action on climate change in rules and legislation as drought is replaced by flooding.

Suppliers now have detailed steps to create a new source of drinking water. But it's not really “toilet-to-tap.” Due to the cost, it’ll likely be only large suppliers.

After months of controversy, the water board extended emergency measures restricting irrigation. Tribes and Siskiyou County ranchers and farmers have battled for years over the rivers’ flows.

As the state battles climate change and Californians drive fewer gas-powered cars, tax revenue will drop substantially, according to a new state analysis. EV fees will make up only part of the transportation shortfall so lawmakers need new funding options.

Only a few small demonstration projects off the West Coast have harnessed the power of waves and tides. Costs are high and hurdles are challenging.

Unlike a year ago, water storage is above average. Whether the year is wet or dry, though, remains uncertain despite El Niño conditions.

Residents of Planada and Pajaro want state aid to help alleviate debt incurred from rebuilding after winter floods. Local officials want some money to go elsewhere.

The utilities commission reduced payments to apartments, schools and businesses selling solar power to the grid despite a barrage of criticism. Commissioners say it reverses unfair subsidies.

More than 4,000 state scientists have worked under an expired contract for three years. Average wages in 2020 were $83,586, 27% less than state engineers' pay. The state filed an unfair labor practice charge to stop the strike.

California ranks among the top states suffering economic damage from climate-related disasters. The report describes food shortages, floods, droughts, wildfires, pollution, disease — all linked to climate change.