State is asking the wrong questions on Kern River water case, critics argue
A notice for the next round of state hearings on whether there’s “loose” water on the Kern River prompted exasperation from one attorney and a letter from a Bakersfield group beseeching the state to change its focus. Like the last round held December 9-10, the hearings set for March 15-18 and April 5 and 6, will not consider the public’s needs and how the diversion of water may impact the environment, recreation, drinking water, or quality of life – collectively known as the “public trust.” Instead, the hearing notice states those public trust issues will be considered at some point in the future.