Monday September 14, 2026
The Press Democrat —
Dancers from the Big Valley Band of Pomo Indians moved in rhythm across the grass along the lakeshore here Friday, their feet kicking dust into the air as songs rang out across the water.
Behind them, a plume of smoke from the Lucas Fire rose into the blue sky — a familiar summer scene in Lake County, where seasons of rampant wildfire, drought and other environmental challenges have increasingly reshaped the landscape.
But this gathering at the Big Valley Rancheria was hopeful, focused on the future of the lake, the largest within California, and the protection of the threatened Clear Lake hitch, known by regional tribes as the chi.
Tribal leaders joined state and local officials to sign a sweeping agreement that will give seven tribal governments a formal role alongside California and Lake County in restoring and managing Clear Lake’s vast watershed.
The agreement, which involves 23 government entities, is the first watershed co-management agreement developed under California’s landmark Tribal Stewardship Policy, which would aim to share management of millions of acres of lands and coastal waters with tribes. At Clear Lake, the state is looking to involve tribal governments more closely in restoration projects, including work to safeguard water quality and improve habitat for native species.