Humboldt County Board addresses water diversion permits and increased inspections for cannabis growers

The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors held a regular meeting on February 25, 2025, addressing several key issues, particularly concerning water diversion permits and environmental compliance related to cannabis cultivation.

The meeting began with discussions surrounding the complexities of water surface diversion permits. A permittee raised concerns about the classification of their permit, which was initially rated as a "1" but could be modified to a "2." The board examined the implications of allowing water surface diversions for existing permit holders, emphasizing that those with pre-existing permits were permitted to continue their diversions under specific conditions set by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and the water quality board.

A significant point of contention arose regarding inspections of a specific permittee, who had been inspected four times, including once under a search warrant. Questions were raised about the discovery of a pump in a creek, which had not been identified during previous inspections. The board noted that the location of the pump was outside the site plan, complicating the inspection process.

The discussion shifted to the permittee's application for a domestic water right, which had been complicated by CDFW's requirement to apply for a cannabis water right instead. One supervisor expressed the need to clarify that any restrictions on surface diversion rights should pertain strictly to cannabis use and not domestic needs.

As the meeting progressed, the board deliberated on the potential revocation of a cultivation permit due to compliance issues. The board ultimately decided against immediate revocation, opting instead to continue the matter until March 25, 2025, to allow for modifications to the permit conditions. These modifications would include increased inspections and a requirement for the permittee to come current with all inspection fees.

The board emphasized the importance of compliance, stating that any future violations could lead to immediate revocation of the permit without further hearings. The discussion highlighted the board's commitment to ensuring that permit holders adhere to environmental regulations while balancing the need for agricultural development.

In conclusion, the board's decisions reflect a cautious approach to managing water resources and environmental compliance in Humboldt County, particularly in the context of cannabis cultivation. The next steps will involve further discussions and potential modifications to the permit conditions at the upcoming meeting in March.