Trump's 'People Over Fish' Plan Fuels Delta Smelt Debate Amid 80% Decline

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Trump targets endangered delta smelt in California's water allocation battle amid LA firestorm situation

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Delta smelt, a 3-inch fish native to Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta, gained political attention while serving as symbol for environmental regulations.

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President orders federal agencies to increase Delta water pumping southward through "Putting People Over Fish" directive, challenging species protection laws.

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Governor Newsom counters Trump's claims about water shortage causing Palisades fire, stating Los Angeles reservoirs remain well-supplied from Delta and Colorado River.

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Delta smelt controversy gained national attention during 2009 through Sean Hannity's show, transforming local water dispute into broader cultural conflict.

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Native fish populations, including salmon, trout, sturgeon and delta smelt, experienced roughly 80% decline due to California's agricultural demands and population growth.

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Trump's 2019 federal water rule revisions aimed to increase Central Valley agriculture deliveries, which environmental groups viewed as challenging species protections

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Agricultural industry leaders blame insufficient water supplies on environmental regulations protecting endangered species during drought periods.

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Delta smelt, fished for food in 1950s, now serves as key indicator species for ecosystem health.

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Environmental experts argue increased water exports wouldn't significantly benefit Southern California, while complicating rational discussions about resource management.

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