Restore the Delta has a new team of university students who are working on climate/water issues for the San Francisco Bay-Delta estuary. Funded by the Irvine Foundation and Mosaic Momentum, these leaders from the Delta region who are studying environmental science, forestry, geography, environmental studies, and geology, have already been to the State Water Resources Control Board to make the case for the State Water Board to implement and continue with their Bay-Delta Plan to restore water flows for the Delta and for further protection for the estuary from harmful algal blooms.
Currently enrolled at CSU East Bay pursuing an Environmental Studies BA. I hope to pursue a career that involves/relates to water quality, especially in regards to groundwater, or sustainable energy. After constantly driving on the freeways and over the Altamont, learning about how the Delta water travels through canals to supply locations outside of the Central Valley brought me to the topic of sustainable water practices and the usage of groundwater. My family also recreates on the Delta, and harmful algal blooms can harm them, hence the interest in this internship. After earning my degree, I plan to take more classes at San Joaquin to pursue a degree in Agriculture in order to learn more about the water aspects (irrigation mostly) in that field. Outside of work and education, I like to do DIY projects, read fictional books, bake, and try different kinds of foods from different cultures.
Isabella Carvajal is honored to be one of this year’s Climate Water Advocates. Growing up in North Stockton walking distance from the delta and as the daughter of Chilean immigrants, has deeply impacted her perspectives and experiences and motioned her towards a commitment to ensuring a change in the disproportionate access to safe spaces needed to form relationships with the land. This commitment has led her to Cal Poly Humboldt pursuing a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with a concentration in Critical Perspectives of Agriculture, and two minors in Native American Studies and Sustainable Food Systems. She hopes she can contribute to the work being done to ensure the health of the delta for future generations, especially within the realm of Environmental Justice and Education.
Nick Gomez is an Oceanography student at Cal Poly Maritime Academy with a strong passion for marine As said best by Nick, “My interest in marine life began after taking a zoology course, which inspired me to explore the diversity of ocean ecosystems. Since I was a child, I have always loved animals because I grew up surrounded by many of them. I hope to pursue a profession in marine biology where I can contribute to the protection and conservation of marine ecosystems. I would really love to reduce pollution and help preserve the health of our oceans and the planet.”
Daniel Carrillo is a Stockton native and currently a senior at the University of the Pacific majoring in Biochemistry. Some of his professional career aspirations include fish and wildlife conservation as well as biomedical research as professional career opportunities. Aside from his career, he enjoys fishing along the Smith Canal and has been fishing in the Delta since early childhood. With Restore the Delta, he wishes to continue providing for the city of Stockton.
Katherine Parrilla is an aspiring historian and ethnic studies advocate. She is a Stockton native and a student at Cal Poly Humboldt. Katherine will be working with the Smithsonian Institute to help bring the story of the Filipino community to a national stage. In addition, Katherine is a climate water intern for Restore the Delta and is passionate about environmental justice and the Bay-Delta region.