CDFW News

CDFW Continues to Cite Individuals in Siskiyou County for Illegal Suction Dredge Mining

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 11:08:18 GMT

SISKIYOU COUNTY, Calif. – The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) continues to issue citations to individuals for violations related to unlawful suction dredging.

Suction dredging is harmful to native fish and wildlife habitat, making it difficult for native species to thrive and creating favorable conditions for invasive species.

On June 24, 2026, CDFW officers patrolled the Klamath River near Happy Camp, citing one individual for unlawfully possessing a suction dredge in closed state waters, a violation of California Fish and Game Code (FGC) section 5653(e). The dredge was seized as evidence. Officers used a helicopter and ground crew to remove the dredge and delivered it to a nearby location where it was safely loaded onto a trailer for storage.

CDFW reminds the public that the use or possession of suction dredge equipment in rivers, streams or lakes without a valid permit is prohibited under FGC sections 5653.1(b) and 5653(e). No partnership, membership or business relationship provides an exemption from the suction dredge prohibitions. Violations may result in citations, prosecution and seizure of equipment. CDFW is actively pursuing multiple cases related to illegal suction dredging across the state.

While suction dredging is prohibited, non-motorized recreational mining methods such as gold panning and non-motorized sluice boxes remain legal. CDFW recognizes the longstanding interest in recreational mineral recovery and encourages miners to pursue these activities through lawful practices.

To report a poaching or pollution incident, or any fish and wildlife crime, call the CalTIP Hotline 24 hours a day at 1-888-334-CALTIP (1-888-334-2258), or text “CALTIP” followed by a space and the message to 847411 (TIP411).

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Media Contact:
Alicia de la Garza, CDFW Communications, (916) 754-7237

Jason Roberts Named Regional Manager for CDFW’s Northern Region

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 09:09:08 GMT

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) has named Jason Roberts as the new Regional Manager for its Northern Region.

Roberts has more than two decades of experience with CDFW as a fisheries biologist, supervisor, program manager, policy expert and tribal liaison. He joined CDFW’s Northern Region in 2014 and, among other assignments, managed CDFW’s Upper Sacramento River Basin fisheries efforts and most recently served as Inland Fisheries Program Manager.

Roberts was instrumental in two of CDFW’s most ambitious initiatives to help restore north state Chinook salmon populations: The pilot program with the Winnemem Wintu Tribe and federal partners to return endangered, winter-run Chinook salmon to their historic spawning and rearing grounds in the McCloud River above the Shasta Dam and the removal of four California dams on the Klamath River, the largest dam removal effort in world history.

“Jason’s leadership, deep technical knowledge and steady approach to complex challenges have made him an invaluable part of our Northern Region,” said CDFW Director Meghan Hertel. “His experience and longstanding relationships across the department and in our northernmost communities will serve him and all of us well in this new role.”

Headquartered in Redding, CDFW’s Northern Region encompasses nine counties in northern California: Del Norte, Humbold, Lassen, Mendocino, Modoc, Shasta, Siskiyou, Tehama and Trinity. Roberts replaces Tina Bartlett, who retired earlier this year.

Roberts was born and raised in Yuba City, Calif., and earned a bachelor’s degree in biological conservation from California State University, Sacramento. He joined CDFW in 2004 as a Scientific Aid.

Roberts lives in Redding with his wife and two sons. Away from work, he enjoys coaching youth soccer, fishing, camping and water sports with his family, particularly on Shasta Reservoir and Whiskeytown Lake.

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Media Contact:
Alicia de la Garza, CDFW Communications, (916) 754-7237

CDFW Accepting Applications for Deer Hunting Opportunities at Cosumnes River Ecological Reserve

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 10:30:15 GMT

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is now accepting applications for deer hunting opportunities at the Cosumnes River Ecological Reserve in Sacramento County for the 2026 A Zone and D-5 Zone archery and general seasons.

CDFW initiated a limited deer hunting program within the ecological reserve in 2021. The program proved safe and popular with hunters and was expanded in 2022, doubling the number of access permits offered to eight.

In 2026, permits again will be issued for eight separate one-week hunting periods – four permits for the A Zone and four for the D-5 Zone seasons that fall within the reserve’s boundaries. Each permit will accommodate up to two hunters. Only archery equipment may be used during the A Zone archery season and D-5 Zone archery season. Only archery equipment or shotguns with nonlead slugs may be used during the general season hunt dates. Rifles, pistols or muzzleloaders will not be allowed due to safety concerns. Harvest is limited to one legal buck per hunter per access period.

The A Zone hunts take place in July through September within the reserve’s Arno Unit, located west of Highway 99. The D-5 Zone hunts are offered in mid-August through early November within the reserve’s Dillard Unit, east of Highway 99.

Hunters can download the applications online at the Cosumnes River Ecological Reserve web page. Hunters can also request an access permit application by calling CDFW’s Rancho Cordova office at (916) 358-2900 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. on weekdays. Applications may be submitted via e-mail to R2CRPhunts@wildlife.ca.gov or mailed to CDFW’s Rancho Cordova office at 1701 Nimbus Road, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670.

For the A Zone, Arno Unit general hunt applications must be received by 2 p.m. on July 13, 2026. For the D-5 Zone Dillard archery and general hunts, applications must be received by 2 p.m. on Aug 3, 2026. Permits will be awarded by a computerized, random drawing. Successful applicants will be notified by e-mail or phone call/text message within two working days of the drawing, and will receive additional information, including maps and special instructions, prior to the hunt. Results will not be given over the phone.

Up to two people may apply for the hunt as one party by including all required information on the application form. Junior hunting license holders who are 12 years of age or older may also apply if accompanied by an adult hunter. Applicants may apply for one access permit on one area only. An individual’s name may appear in the drawing only once. Any individual’s name who appears on more than one application will cause all applications with that individual’s name present to be disqualified.

Hunters selected for an access permit for the Arno Unit (A Zone) or Dillard Unit (D-5 Zone) must possess the necessary A Zone, D3-5 Zones or Archery Only deer tag for the 2026 season. All hunters selected for a permit must also possess a 2026-27 California hunting license.

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Media Contacts:
Dustin Wallis, CDFW North Central Region, (916) 282-8977
Peter Tira, CDFW Communications, (916) 215-3858

CDFW and Partners Collaborate to Reduce Wolf-Livestock Conflict and Benefit Ranchers

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 14:55:32 GMT

Utilizing $2 million provided by the California Legislature for its Wolf-Livestock Compensation Program, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) has awarded funds to four organizations to support efforts to reduce wolf-livestock conflict. With gray wolves naturally returning to California over the last 15 years, ranchers in several regions are encountering new challenges and these funds help strengthen the on-the-ground efforts to protect livestock while supporting the recovery of the species.

** The California Bountiful Foundation – supported by the California Farm Bureau – will collaborate closely with CDFW to reimburse livestock producers who suffer confirmed or probable wolf attacks on livestock. The foundation will also provide additional support, such as education, outreach, and equipment, to livestock producers in counties affected by wolves.

** The Sierra Valley Resource Conservation District will support livestock producers utilizing approved hazing techniques on gray wolves. Efforts will include providing outreach, training, and equipment that will help producers detect wolf presence. It will also study the use of electronic cattle ear tags that can potentially alert livestock producers to wolf conflict by sensing and reporting abnormal cattle movement or behaviors.

** The Honey Lake Valley Resource Conservation District will deliver educational and technical assistance programs to help eligible livestock producers implement hazing and deterrence strategies. It may also provide producers with approved hazing equipment.

** Working Circle will provide outreach to livestock producers geared toward reducing cattle vulnerability to wolf depredation through herd management and stockmanship. Working Circle will conduct workshops and work directly with interested producers to assess and reduce depredation risks on specific properties.

“CDFW deeply values its partners and looks forward to continued collaboration with these organizations to help reduce wolf-livestock conflicts, support California’s livestock producers and manage the recovery of wolves in California,” said CDFW Director Meghan Hertel. “We have heard clearly from ranchers how hard the return of wolves has been on their livelihoods – not just financially, but in the day-to-day mental and physical toll of managing this animal. These programs are meant to offer support and more tools to the people most affected by the return of gray wolves to the state.”

As the gray wolf population continues to recover in California, CDFW will continue to work with partners to reduce the impacts of wolf presence on livestock. Reimbursement for livestock depredations and the use of non-lethal deterrent tools and hazing are important parts of this work.

Tools such as fladry, radio-activated guard devices and Foxlights have been used to deter wolves in California. Increased human presence, including range-riding, and the use of aerial drones and other less-than-lethal hazing have also helped deter wolves from livestock.

For more information about gray wolves and the Wolf-Livestock Compensation Program, please see CDFW's gray wolf web page.

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Media Contact:
Alicia de la Garza, CDFW Communications, (916) 754-7237

California Fish and Game Commission, CDFW Honor Deputy District Attorneys Michael McCann and Ken Jorgensen as 2025 Wildlife Prosecutors of the Year

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 10:14:07 GMT

The California Fish and Game Commission (Commission) and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) are proud to recognize two outstanding prosecutorial partners – San Diego County Deputy District Attorney Michael McCann and San Luis Obispo County Deputy District Attorney Ken Jorgensen – as 2025 Wildlife Prosecutors of the Year.

“Both honorees have demonstrated exceptional leadership, collaboration and dedication in safeguarding California’s natural resources,” said Commission President Eric Sklar. “It is a privilege to jointly recognize these deserving prosecutors with our primary partner agency, CDFW.”

California’s expansive border region, major seaports, diverse ecosystems, and native wildlife and fisheries face constant pressure from poachers, wildlife traffickers, environmental crimes and chronic violators. This year’s award recipients have played pivotal roles in strengthening wildlife and environmental enforcement through innovative legal strategy, field partnership and unwavering commitment.

“Deputy District Attorneys Michael McCann and Ken Jorgensen exemplify what true partnership in wildlife protection looks like. Their commitment, legal expertise and willingness to work hand in hand with our officers have directly strengthened California’s ability to confront wildlife trafficking, environmental crimes and chronic violations,” said Nathaniel Arnold, CDFW Deputy Director and Chief of the Law Enforcement Division. “Their work protects not only our natural resources but the integrity of the systems that safeguard them. CDFW is proud to honor their exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication to conservation.”

Deputy District Attorney Michael McCann – San Diego County

McCann is recognized for his critical role in a nearly two-year investigation into an underground trafficking ring dealing in exotic, venomous and restricted species. The case originated when CDFW investigators identified a social media seller offering restricted wildlife, including Morelet’s crocodiles that are native to parts of Mexico, Belize and Guatemala. McCann immediately committed resources, including two district attorney investigators, to support the operation.

The investigation revealed a criminal network trafficking caimans, Gila monsters, snapping turtles, palm pit vipers and Komodo Island pit vipers across the San Ysidro border crossing – posing significant threats to California’s biodiversity. McCann reviewed numerous warrants, provided around-the-clock legal guidance and drew on his narcotics prosecution expertise to help navigate evidence of firearm and drug trafficking uncovered during the operation. Michael McCann

When officers executing a residential warrant discovered evidence of additional crimes, McCann swiftly facilitated an expedited secondary warrant, ensuring the investigation moved forward without delay. He coordinated with CDFW’s Office of General Counsel, the Orange County District Attorney’s Office and defense counsel to maintain a clear and effective prosecution plan.

The case resulted in multiple felony and misdemeanor charges, including illegal wildlife sales, illegal firearms possession and possession for sale of controlled substances. McCann successfully negotiated a global plea agreement spanning San Diego and Orange counties, halting the spread of unlawfully possessed wildlife and disrupting a sophisticated trafficking network. Evidence from the case continues to support additional investigations. CDFW leadership describes McCann as an invaluable ally whose tenacity and professionalism have significantly advanced the state’s ability to combat wildlife trafficking.

“On behalf of myself and the San Diego District Attorney’s Office, it is a privilege to work with the hard-working men and women of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.  Your professionalism, dedication and commitment to justice is exemplary throughout our state,” McCann said. “My office and I are honored to receive this award, which was truly a team effort led by CDFW's Lt. Garrett Smittle and his colleagues who worked countless hours to prevent the trafficking of venomous protected reptiles, the sale of drugs, the transfer of assault weapons and child endangerment.  We sincerely thank you for everything you do in protecting California’s wildlife, natural resources and habitat.”

Deputy District Attorney Ken Jorgensen – San Luis Obispo County

Jorgensen is honored for his exceptional skill, strategic leadership and transformative impact on wildlife and environmental enforcement in San Luis Obispo County. His partnership with CDFW has produced measurable progress in addressing commercial fishing violations that had historically gone under-prosecuted.

One key case involved a commercial fisherman with a 15-year pattern of violations, resulting in a $12,500 fine and five years of probation – reinforcing that persistent noncompliance will be met with meaningful consequences.

In a legal climate where fish and wildlife violations are commonly granted judicial diversion (a process where violators resolve their case by completing court-ordered requirements rather than receiving a criminal conviction), Jorgensen has strengthened enforcement by strategically pursuing civil actions when appropriate. He resolved two high-impact, unlawful guiding cases this year, achieving settlements nearly equal to illicit profits, securing permanent injunctions and ensuring portions of penalties remained local to support conservation through the San Luis Obispo County Fish and Game Commission.

Jorgensen’s persistence is especially evident in a multi-year case involving the unlawful destruction of habitat for the endangered Pismo clarkia, an annual herb that grows in central California. Despite complex biological evidence, shifting personnel and evasive suspects, he led a coordinated, multiagency search warrant and crafted a creative legal strategy combining fish and wildlife statutes with Business and Professions Code authorities. The result was a landmark 2025 settlement totaling $165,350 and permanent injunctions preventing further habitat destruction and pollution.

“Congratulations to Ken on this prestigious award,” said San Luis Obispo County District Attorney Dan Dow. “I am very proud of the outstanding work he has done alongside our entire Environmental Enforcement team. Ken’s professionalism and pursuit of excellence are invaluable assets when it comes to safeguarding our natural resources and serving our great community.”

Beyond casework, Jorgensen has strengthened regional environmental enforcement by establishing quarterly interagency roundtable meetings, expanding information sharing and best practices across jurisdictions. His participation in field operations and marine patrol ride-alongs further demonstrates his commitment to understanding the challenges faced by wildlife officers.

The Commission and CDFW proudly recognize McCann and Jorgensen for their extraordinary service, innovative legal leadership and vital contributions to protecting California’s fish, wildlife and natural habitats.

CDFW Photo: Members of the California Fish and Game Commission stand with Wildlife Prosecutor of the Year Ken Jorgensen.

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Media Contacts:
Kory Collins, CDFW Law Enforcement Division, (310) 944-8182
Peter Tira, CDFW Communications, (916) 215-3858