About this Event
Description:
On Wednesday, October 7, the California Supreme Court will hear oral arguments in the Kern River case, and we're watching it together.
The last time the court ruled on the Kern River was 1886. That decision became the foundation of California's water rights system. This hearing could be just as important.
What the court is deciding
California Fish & Game Code § 5937 requires dam operators to let enough water through to keep fish in good condition. In 2023, after a big water year brought the river and its fish back through town, a Kern County judge ordered the City of Bakersfield to keep water in the Kern under that law. An appeals court overturned that order in April 2025. Now the California Supreme Court will decide what § 5937 really requires. The ruling could uphold or upend decades of river protection across the state.
What to expect
- 8:30 AM: Watch area open. Grab a coffee and find a seat.
- 9:00 AM: Livestream of oral arguments begins.
- After arguments: Stick around to talk through what we heard and what comes next.
The event is free and everyone is welcome. Bring a neighbor, a coworker, or anyone who has ever wished the Kern River flowed through town.
Can't make it?
- Watch the livestream at supreme.courts.ca.gov.
- If you want to be in the courtroom, the court is holding a special session in Redding at University Preparatory School, 2200 Eureka Way, starting at 9 AM. Local students will fill much of the room, so arrive early. If you'd like to carpool, email [email protected].
Hosted by Bring Back the Kern · bringbackthekern.org
Event venue & nearby stays
Dagny's Coffee Co, 1600 20th Street, Bakersfield, United States
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