Public comments sought on revised Russian River frost plan

<p>The State Water Resources Control Board is accepting written comments on a revised set of rules to govern frost irrigation for vineyards and orchards in the Russian River watershed.</p><p>The board is set to take up the contentious issue at a Sept. 20 public hearing in Sacramento. The deadline for written comments on the revised proposal is Sept. 16.</p><p>The rules would govern springtime use of stream water and associated groundwater, both of which grape and fruit growers spray on their crops during cold snaps to protect them from frost. </p><p>Federal officials say the practice can cause sudden and severe drops in flow levels and result in fish kills.</p><p>Starting next year, the state would ban such diversions unless growers come up with a state-approved program to monitor and report their water usage.</p><p>Sonoma and Mendocino County grape growers are strongly opposed to the proposal, while fish and stream advocates say it is the only one they've seen so far with any teeth.</p><p>The revised proposal is available through the state water board's calendar, www.waterboards.ca.gov/waterrights.</p>