I live in Monte Rio and enjoy and paddle the river regularly. Last year the Sonoma Co. Water Agency (scwa.ca.gov) reduced the summer flows to 85cfs (cubic feet per second). By August of last year there was a Green Algae bloom the likes of which had not been seen before.
It is now early June the River is currently running btwn. 120cfs and 80 cfs.
Too low for recreational use. And the Green Algae bloom is larger at this point than what we saw in Sept. of last year. This algae is a direct result of a significantly reduced flow and increased water temperatures and excess nitrogen run off from vineyards.
The lower River communities rely heavily on tourist dollars for survival.
If the Russian River is allowed to continue at it's current "flow", then I suspect that the River will not be useable for recreation by the middle/end of July.
If you enjoy the Russian River or understand the value to the enviroment and the lower River communities, then PLEASE call and/or email the Sonoma Co. Water Agency (707)526-5370 and demand that they give us our River back.
In case you don't realize, much of the water from the River goes to Marin Co. and many Sonoma Co. communities for laundry, lawns, golf courses, car washing, domestic use, etc..
Personally, I believe the water belongs in the River before folks should be allowed to have lush lawns and golf courses.
Thank you so much for your time and considerations.
All the Best and Peace. Lili Burnley