This salmon prefers a clean Feather River for spawning. You can help on Sept. 21 during Coastal Cleanup Day. Photo courtesy of California Department of Water Resources

YUBA CITY, CA (MPG) - The Sutter County Resource Conservation District (SCRCD) and Yuba City have a standing annual date.

Yuba City City Manager Diane Langley marks the spot on the calendar yearly to remind residents about the event.

“Yuba City is appreciative of the Sutter County Resource Conservation District for coordinating a cleanup activity along the Feather River on Sept. 21 to commemorate the 40th anniversary of Coastal Cleanup Day,” Langley said.

Sutter County Resource Conservation District project assistant Estefany Sanchez said the city's collaborative efforts are essential.

“This partnership is crucial because it combines the resources, expertise and local knowledge of both entities to tackle environmental challenges effectively,” Sanchez said. “By working together, they can enforce regulations, enhance cleanup operations and implement preventive measures more efficiently, which helps protect agricultural lands from pollution and degradation.” 

Along with the annual meet-up in the fall, Yuba City and the Sutter County Resource Conservation District get together throughout the year when necessary.

“One significant project is the ongoing initiative to address illegal dumping on agricultural lands,” Sanchez said, adding that the Cal-Recycle illegal dumping project is in its third year. “It involves monitoring and removing waste, educating the public on proper disposal practices, and collaborating with local authorities to enforce anti-dumping regulations.”

Sanchez said that the two also work together in California's Healthy Soils Program (HSP) and the State Water Efficiency and Enhancement Program (SWEEP).

While the Healthy Soils Program educates socially disadvantaged farmers, offering visual aid events and open farmer-to-farmer discussions in Spanish and Punjabi, the State Water Efficiency and Enhancement Program focuses on outdated and inefficient irrigation methods for local farmers to conserve and reduce water use.

“This work has been instrumental in preserving the quality and usability of farmland in the region,” Sanchez said.

There is also the Feather River Project along 3.5 west bank river miles, beginning at Yuba Boat Launch.

“The project has three objectives: Chinook Salmon, Steelhead and Bank Swallow habitat restoration, maintaining at least the current level of flood protection and providing opportunities for public access and engagement,” according to the Sutter County Resource Conservation District.

Langley said collecting and removing debris along the Feather River improves the river as a source of drinking water for multiple communities, including Yuba City.

“It improves the environment for fish, birds, and other wildlife and makes the waterway more inviting and enjoyable for residents,” Langley said.

Along with aesthetics, Sanchez said conservation is increasingly urgent as climate change significantly strains water and land resources.

“Changes in climate patterns lead to more frequent and severe droughts, affecting water availability and agricultural productivity,” Sanchez said. “Similarly, altered weather patterns and extreme events can degrade land quality and disrupt ecosystems.”

The project manager added addressing these challenges through conservation efforts is essential to ensure the sustainability of natural resources, maintain agricultural productivity, and protect the environment for future generations and the partnership between Yuba City and the Sutter County Resource Conservation District “is a model of effective collaboration for environmental stewardship.”

“Community involvement is key to the success of these initiatives,” the project manager said. “Individuals interested in contributing can participate in local conservation projects, volunteer for cleanup events, and stay informed about conservation efforts through local meetings and resources.”

Sanchez added that engaging with these activities not only supports environmental protection but also fosters a sense of community and shared responsibility for preserving natural resources.

To find out more about getting involved with the Sept. 21 event, email [email protected] or call 530-844-3364.

 On Sept. 21, there will be a cleanup activity along the Feather River. Photo courtesy of Yuba City