The recent hot spell only underscores and exacerbates the presence of drought in the region. Rivers are running low and warm, endangering the fish that live in them.
The Wiyot Tribe in Humboldt County recently declared a state of emergency for its namesake river, Wiya't, generally called the Eel River. And the rest of the local rivers are also experiencing low flows: Baduwa't (Mad River), Hikshari' (Elk River), and Gidughurralilh (Van Duzen River).
Guests from the tribe visit to talk about the declaration and the prospects for doing anything to help the rivers or the fish.