During the 2021-22 drought, CDFW funded conservation projects in Sonoma and Mendocino counties to protect coho salmon and steelhead trout. One initiative, Rain Catchers in Your Neighborhood by Conservation Works, taught the community about water conservation and rainwater harvesting.
Students at Riebli Elementary engaged in Earth Day activities, learning about watershed conservation and decorating rain storage tanks. The project was aimed at connecting local water use to stream conditions that support juvenile salmonids, which depend on consistent water flow.
Rainwater harvesting systems, with 5,000-gallon tanks, were installed at various community sites, including schools and gardens, to store rainwater for summer use. Outreach events educated over 400 children on salmon life cycles and the importance of water conservation.
The initiative aims to reduce reliance on summertime water diversions, potentially saving 505,000 gallons annually. It demonstrates how community action can support local ecosystems during drought conditions.
