op-ed on delta smelt biological opinion

Yesterday PLF attorney Brandon Middleton and former Interior assistant secretary Craig Manson had this op-ed in the San Francisco Chronicle. The op-ed points out that "[t]here is little science to support the notion that pumping restrictions will solve the problem of the smelt's decline" and argues that "[i]t makes no sense to make the pumps the scapegoat for the delta smelt's decline, at the cost of threatening the water supply for millions of human beings."

The article also briefly touches upon the farmers who stand to lose much as a consequence of the biop's conclusions.  These same farmers are also likely concerns with another biological opinion to be issued in March on the effects of California's water systems on fish species.  The Sacramento Bee has more details.  Thanks to Aquafornia for the pointer.