Assemblymember Patty Berg, who Chairs the Joint Committee on Fisheries and Aquaculture, the host of the annual hearing, said, "This is a wonderful opportunity for fishermen and others in the fishing industry to share concerns directly with the Legislature. Many of today's laws protecting fisheries, aquaculture and marine interests were developed as a result of information and testimony provided at past forums."

Status reports on Coho and Chinook salmon, herring, dungeness crab and other shellfish were given. Recreational fishing representatives discussed their desire to have more say in restoration projects paid for by fishing license funds. The hearing also included updates on the status of fisheries’ research and funding, which is threatened at both the state and federal level.

Government officials that participated in Wednesday’s forum included Resources Secretary Mike Chrisman, Department of Fish and Game Director Ryan Broddrick, Bureau of Reclamation Deputy Regional Director John Davis, Fish and Game Commission President Jim Kellogg, Fish and Game Commission Vice President Sam Schuchat.

The afternoon session of the forum focused on issues related to the Klamath and Trinity Rivers. In her opening statement, Berg said, "I want to see us get beyond the political debate and work toward a policy decision that meets the needs of all stakeholders and the fisheries resources as well. Both the Klamath and Trinity Rivers need long-term solutions, not short-term fixes."

Jill Geist, Chair of the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, testified about Humboldt County's 1959 contract with the Bureau of Reclamation for 50,000 acre-feet of Trinity River Water. Humboldt County Supervisor Bonnie Neely also attended the Forum.

Tom Birmingham, General Manager of Westlands Water District, explained to the Committee the company's rationale for opposing returning water to the Trinity River.

During the hearing, Assemblymember Berg was joined by Senator Wesley Chesbro and Senator Dede Alpert to commend Trinity County Planner Tom Stokely for his volunteerism and public service and his demonstrated desire and motivation to improve and protect California's fisheries.

Stokely was given the surprise resolution for his role in both Trinity River restoration efforts and state salmon and steelhead recovery efforts. He received a standing ovation from the more than one hundred decision-makers, fisherman and stakeholders in the room.