The Sacramento-area CBS station ran a story about CVJV on July 3, 2025 that highlighted the risks migratory birds in the Central Valley are currently facing and how CVJV’s work addresses those risks. Morning host Dominic Garcia interviewed Ashley Overhouse, Water Policy Advisor for Defenders of Wildlife’s California Program, who currently serves as chair of CVJV’s Management Board, and Xerónimo Castañeda, Director of Audubon California’s Working Lands Program, who represents his organization as a member of CVJV’s Management Board.

In her interview, Overhouse touched on the fact that more than 90% of the wildlife habitat that used to exist in the Central Valley has been lost to development. The Central Valley is home to some of the most important bird habitat in North America, providing resources for millions of migratory birds to rest and refuel or spend the winter, as well as for birds that live in the region all year round.

Overhouse also highlighted the role of wetlands as nature’s filter. Healthy wetlands support thriving populations of birds and other wildlife. Protecting and restoring wetlands can lead to improved water quality for communities, especially in areas (like some parts of the Central Valley) where groundwater is severely polluted.

Castañeda talked about the value of partnering with landowners to protect bird habitat. Many rice farmers, for example, choose to partner with CVJV to manage their lands in ways that create seasonal habitat at the times of year migratory waterfowl and shorebirds need it most. By highlighting both the challenges facing Central Valley birds and the collaborative solutions being implemented by CVJV’s member organizations, the CBS-Sacramento story contributes to public understanding and support for the partnership approach that drives effective wildlife habitat conservation across the region.