The recent Fresnoland article on the proposed CEMEX mining project in Fresno County raises several important issues but misrepresents the San Joaquin River Conservancy, its role, and its capabilities.

The article critiques the Conservancy for not taking a more direct stance on the mining proposal and portrays its staff and leadership as inactive. However, this perspective fails to accurately depict the nature of the Conservancy’s work and mission, and raises questions about the transparency and completeness of the information provided.

I want to clarify that the Conservancy is a state agency with a clear mission: to develop the San Joaquin River Parkway, to create public access to the river corridor, and conserve lands either owned by the Conservancy or through willing partnerships. Importantly, the Conservancy is neither a political organization nor a regulatory body.

It does not govern land use decisions outside of its jurisdiction, nor is it empowered to block private development projects, such as the CEMEX mine. The role of the Conservancy is simple and straightforward: to develop the river parkway, restore the river ecosystem, and conserve lands that will benefit the public and future generations.

Conservancy Is Committed to Transparency

Back in the early 1990s when the enabling legislation for the Conservancy was being drafted by then-Assemblymember Jim Costa, the local agencies which would share jurisdiction with the Conservancy and have membership on its governing board — the city of Fresno, Fresno County and Madera County  — stipulated that they would only support the bill if the Conservancy did NOT have land-use decision-making authority.

As a result, those decisions were left with the local agencies and in this case, it appropriately falls under the purview of Fresno County.

The article suggests that the Conservancy’s leadership, particularly Executive Director Kari Daniska, has been unresponsive or indifferent to the CEMEX project. This claim overlooks the reality that Ms. Daniska did not refuse to comment, but instead informed the reporter that the Conservancy would be providing formal comments on the project, consistent with its mission and its Master Plan.

The Conservancy is following a careful, process-oriented approach, ensuring that any development along the river aligns with its long-term goals of preservation and public access. Ms. Daniska’s response reflects the organization’s commitment to engaging thoughtfully and transparently with all stakeholders, not avoiding the issue.

Additionally, the article claims that four members of the Conservancy’s Board requested that the CEMEX mining item be added to the Board’s agenda. This is inaccurate. Neither the Chair nor the Executive Director received any formal request from Board members to add this item to the agenda.

The Conservancy operates under a set agenda structure, and matters are considered in accordance with the priorities and processes in place. If such a request had been made, it would have been handled appropriately, as the Conservancy is committed to transparency and providing Board members with the opportunity to address any concerns or matters of importance.

Three Properties Opened for Public Use in 2024

Over the past year, the San Joaquin River Conservancy has made significant progress in its mission. We have opened three properties for public use, providing local residents with increased access to the river and enhanced recreational opportunities. Additionally, we have funded the development of our flagship project, River West, a fourth property that will further enhance the river parkway and its connection to the community. These accomplishments are a direct reflection of the Conservancy’s dedication to its mission and its focus on developing the river parkway in a sustainable, inclusive way.

As we continue our work, we remain committed to staying focused on our mission of preserving and enhancing the San Joaquin River Parkway. By doing so, we will ensure the future of the river and its surrounding lands for generations to come. We will continue to collaborate with all stakeholders, engage with the community, and work diligently toward our shared goal of providing public access and conserving lands under our care.

About the Author

Bobby Macaulay is the District 5 Supervisor for Madera County and chair of the San Joaquin River Conservancy.

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