Jun 23, 2026

New study measures microplastics in Bay smaller than human hair

Over 90% of the juvenile rockfish sampled had plastic microparticles in them.

Ruth Dusseault/Bay City News

Jun 21, 2026

Bay Area lawmakers seek over $32 million in emergency federal funds to fight grape pest

Glassy-winged sharpshooters spread Pierce's disease, a bacterial infection that is fatal to grapevines and can also damage almond, citrus and ornamental plants.

Tanay Gokhale/Bay City News

Jun 18, 2026

New apple processing plant opens in Santa Rosa

Gold Ridge Organic Farms is opening at 20,000 square foot facility as a heritage apple processing company leaves next year for Washington state.

Michelle Marques

Jun 17, 2026

NorCal on high alert for glassy-winged sharpshooters

Feasting on grape vines is how the pest transmits Pierce’s disease.

Tina Caputo

Jun 17, 2026

Sonoma County supes ok $2.9 billion dollar budget to preserve core services amid future uncertainty

The adopted budget reduces the county workforce by the equivalent of 42 full-time positions, leaving a total workforce of 4,457 positions

Bay City News

Jun 16, 2026

Congressional races set for November as Jones secures place in District 4 general election

The race for Congress in two of three seats representing Sonoma County will see a Democrat face off against a Republican, but in District 4, incumbent Mike Thompson will face Democratic challenger Eric Jones.

Noah Abrams

Jun 16, 2026

Learning center at San Quentin sits empty over weekend amid staffing shortages, budget constraints

Since the education facility opened, the campus has sat largely empty with deserted hallways and classrooms.

Steve Brooks/Bay City News

Jun 16, 2026

Largely ceremonial state budget passed, negotiating continues until July 1

The $356 billion dollar budget lawmakers approved seeks to delay social service cuts.

Laura Fitzgerald/CapRadio

Jun 15, 2026

Napa County subbasin residents to pay new groundwater fee in December

The groundwater fee will range anywhere from $38 to $129 per acre per year.

Kelcie Lee/Bay City News

Jun 12, 2026

Sonoma County Sheriff watchdog names interim director

Matthew Chavez, an oversight auditor at Sonoma County's Independent Office of Law Enforcement Review and Outreach will lead the agency while the county holds nationwide search for a new permanent director.

Noah Abrams

Jun 11, 2026

'Hip Hop Gameshow' debuts in Santa Rosa

MCs will be competing in games such as ‘no rhyming’ challenges.

Michelle Marques

Jun 11, 2026

Funding shift threatens mobile crisis response in North Bay counties

Mobile crisis teams made up of mental health professionals have been responding to many police calls in Sonoma County instead of armed officers. Now, the proposed state budget puts California’s mobile crisis teams at risk.

Shandra Back

Jun 10, 2026

Lawsuit alleges elder abuse at Santa Rosa retirement community

Plaintiff attorneys allege Varenna isn't allowing hired caregivers to assist residents with activities of daily living.

Noah Abrams

Jun 10, 2026

Santa Rosa Junior College pushes forward $830 million bond for campus modernization

The proposal would modernize the 108‑year‑old institution and address facility needs across campuses in Sonoma, Marin and Mendocino counties.

Shandra Back

Jun 10, 2026

Sebastopol public library closed indefinitely due to mold

City staff and library admin say testing was conducted on peeling wallpaper in the staff room and teen area that exposed mold.

Kelcie Lee/Bay City News

Jun 09, 2026

‘An existential challenge’: why Santa Rosa schools are refusing interdistrict transfers

Santa Rosa City Schools is now denying most requests from families who want their children to attend schools outside Santa Rosa.

Shandra Back

Jun 08, 2026

New Santa Rosa police program transforms home spaces for vulnerable youth

The project partners with law enforcement and community groups to give kids essentials such as beds, dressers and places to study.

Shandra Back

Jun 08, 2026

Prescribed fire turned wild burning near Lake Berryessa Monday; elevated chance of fire weather this week

After winds picked up, a prescribed burning off Highway 128 escaped the established control line.

Bay City News

Jun 05, 2026

North Bay Election Results; What we know so far

We look at unofficial primary results in Sonoma County and the North Bay, according to the Sonoma County Registrar of Voters and the California Secretary of State’s websites on Friday, June 5.

Noah Abrams

Jun 05, 2026

Santa Rosa police warn of immigration scam impersonating Catholic Charities

Catholic Charities does provide legal services, but the organization does not initiate communication through social media messages and will not guarantee specific immigration outcomes.

Shandra Back and Bay City News

Jun 05, 2026

Immigrant‑rights coalition organizes 50‑mile walk against Bay Area detention expansion

The group will march more than 50 miles to Dublin, demanding a pathway to citizenship and an end to ICE enforcement operations in the Bay Area.

Shandra Back

Jun 04, 2026

Incumbent North Bay congressmen advance to November, challengers up in the air

2nd District Representative Jared Huffman and 4th District Representative Mike Thompson both prevailed in their respective races.

Noah Abrams

Jun 04, 2026

Santa Rosa nonprofit ordered to pay $6 million for in-home caregiver's alleged abuse

The jury also found that the company's policies and state law were violated when another caregiver became aware of the suspected abuse but as a mandated reporter did not notify any authorities, which allegedly allowed the abuse to continue.

Thomas Hughes/Bay City News

Jun 04, 2026

As license plate readers expand, North Bay communities debate the meaning of public safety

Cities say the cameras help solve crimes. Privacy advocates warn they create a vast network that can track people’s movements in ways most residents don’t see.

Shandra Back

Jun 04, 2026

Statewide election results, what we know so far

We still don’t know the full results for some of the marquee races, but KRCB News is here to keep you updated as the primary election results are finalized in the days ahead, and the focus shifts to November.

Noah Abrams

Jun 03, 2026

McGuire and Gallagher set to square off for Congress come November

Republican Assemblyman James Gallagher is leading the primary in early vote returns and outright won the primary to fill the remainder of the late Representative Doug LaMalfa's term.

Noah Abrams

Jun 03, 2026

Sonoma County approves new plan to stabilize agriculture amid industry decline

The plan calls for an agricultural incubator to support new and small‑scale farmers, affordable long‑term leases, and expanded educational and recreational programming.

Shandra Back

Jun 03, 2026

ELECTION RESULTS: Supervisor race too close to call; Congressional incumbents win big

Measure B, the SMART sales tax extension, is passing right now with 70 percent "yes" vote.

Greta Mart

Jun 02, 2026

Rival state legislative leaders outline competing visions in bid for Congress

Republican State Assembly leader James Gallagher is facing off against Democratic State Senator Mike McGuire for 1st District seat in Congress

Noah Abrams

Jun 02, 2026

Education, healthcare, support services front and center for 2nd District Supervisor candidate Joanna Paun

Joanna Paun, a Petaluma City Schools Board member, aims to replace the outgoing David Rabbitt on Sonoma County's Board of Supervisors.

Noah Abrams

Jun 02, 2026

Big spend by two Democrats defines race for California's 4th Congressional District

Rep. Mike Thompson is facing a strong challenge from fellow Napa County resident and Democrat Eric Jones, as well as large field of Republican challengers including Ray Riehle.

Noah Abrams

Jun 02, 2026

Mental health care front and center for challenger to House District 2 seat

Paul Saulsbury, a mobile crisis clinician and Republican from Redding, sees reshaping the mental health response system as core to helping rebuild safe and healthy communities.

Noah Abrams

Jun 01, 2026

Billionaire blitz? Outside interests spend big in crowded race North Bay assembly seat

Grow California, a new political action committee has been splashing major cash in an effort to elect more business friendly state level politicians.

Noah Abrams

Jun 01, 2026

With Rabbitt stepping down, four candidates vie for District 4 seat on Sonoma County Board of Supervisors

A candidate would need to get at least 50% of the vote in the June 2 election to avoid a November runoff between the top two finishers.

Katy St. Clair/Bay City News

Jun 01, 2026

Homelessness is down in CA and across the country, says new federal report

California was among the five states that reported the largest decreases in homelessness last year.

Marisa Kendall/CalMatters

May 29, 2026

Busy week awaits Sonoma County's Registrar of Voters

Mail-in ballots should be dropped off at a polling place or official drop box to ensure they are valid for the the 2026 primary election.

Greta Mart

May 28, 2026

After book ban reversal, young adult author speaks with Windsor High students

Neal Shusterman, author of the book Scythe, spoke virtually with students at Windsor High. Windsor's school board initially denied the use of the novel for a 10th grade English class, before reversing course after community outcry.

Noah Abrams/Shandra Back

May 28, 2026

Imminent changes to state climate policy could favor oil and gas industry

California's Cap-and-Invest program sets a statewide limit, or "cap," on greenhouse gas emissions from major polluters including power plants, fuel suppliers and large industrial facilities.

Ruth Dusseault/Bay City News

May 27, 2026

COVID restrictions have long since passed but community college students still struggle with online education

About 2 million students attend community college classes in California, but around 40% of community college classes are conducted virtually, which can leave campuses that would otherwise brim with students, rather quiet places.

Adam Echelman - CalMatters

May 26, 2026

Pest insect discovered in produce sold at North Bay Costco's causes major alarm

Agricultural authorities in Sonoma and Napa counties have put out alerts after glassy winged sharp shooters, a pest insect that can infect grapevines with incurable Pierce's Disease. Officials fear an unchecked infestation could devastate wine grape harvests.

Noah Abrams/Griffin Jones - Bay City News

May 26, 2026

Sonoma County couple grow and eat extremely hot peppers

The Trefry family discovered a love for all things spicy during the pandemic.

Michelle Marques

May 26, 2026

Producer of Climate California series shares how storytelling drives climate action

NorCal Public Media television producer Hannah Lee talks with KRCB's Shandra Back about the station’s climate storytelling work.

Shandra Back

May 22, 2026

Composer of Climate California series shares secrets behind the score

Miguel Brierley joins KRCB's Michelle Marques to share clips and his process of composing the score to this Emmy-award winning show about climate solutions.

Michelle Marques

May 20, 2026

Fighting for a foothold: restoration work safeguards fragile ecosystem on Yerba Buena Island

A rich and complex web of life exists, even under major pressure, on the small island connected to San Francisco and Oakland by the Bay Bridge.

Ruth Dusseault/Bay City News

May 20, 2026

Coalition proposes alternate plan to address state water needs

The Water Renaissance Plan for California was presented by multiple conservation groups and Tribes on Wednesday.

Michelle Marques

May 19, 2026

Part two: North Bay candidates continue their push for California’s Assembly District 12 seat ahead of June primary

The final three candidates are Steve Schwartz, a nonprofit executive and farmer from Sebastopol, Holli Thier, a Tiburon councilmember and attorney and Eryn Cervantes, a previous correctional counselor at San Quentin.

Shandra Back

May 18, 2026

Man killed by falling branch during weekend's wind event in Santa Rosa

Another person suffered major injuries from a falling limb on Sunday afternoon at a different location.

Michelle Marques

May 18, 2026

Clear Lake tests new phosphorus treatment as algal blooms intensify in Northern California

The pilot project is meant to understand whether reducing nutrient release from the lakebed can improve water quality and results could have broader implications across the state.

Shandra Back

May 15, 2026

In a shifting wine market, Latino representation emerges as a powerful force

Latinos make up about one in five working-age adults nationwide, and one in four kids and teenagers — a future customer base that will soon enter its highest-earning years. Many already spend regularly on beer, spirits and ready-to-drink cocktails, but not on wine, some hope that'll change.

Shandra Back

May 15, 2026

North Bay water supplies looking stable, save for one scenario, as long term plans head for update

Sonoma Water is updating their urban water management and water shortage contingency plans as part of a routine 5-year refresh.

Noah Abrams

May 15, 2026

New play by David Templeton debuts at Montgomery High School

A mostly student cast has had the opportunity to workshop the script with the Petaluma playwright.

Michelle Marques

May 14, 2026

North Bay candidates vie for California’s Assembly District 12 seat ahead of June primary

The first three candidates on the ballot are Eli Beckman, a councilmember and business owner from Corte Madera, Jackie Elward, a Rohnert Park councilwoman and educator and Eric Lucan, a Marin County supervisor from Novato.

Shandra Back

May 13, 2026

Sonoma County releases 2025 ICE data at Truth Act forum as community packs chambers

Most public commenters criticized the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office as the only county agency that still communicates with ICE, saying they don’t want tax dollars supporting that cooperation.

Shandra Back

May 12, 2026

Three candidates vie to replace Sen. Mike McGuire in District 2

The seat has been held by Mike McGuire since 2014. McGuire is now running for Congress, opening the seat for three contenders.

Shandra Back

May 11, 2026

Rogers highlights healthcare and climate priorities in bid for state Assembly

The District 2 Assembly seat is currently held by Chris Rogers, the Santa Rosa Democrat elected in 2024.

Shandra Back

May 08, 2026

Northern California’s Homekey successes stand out amid statewide delays and failures

California has spent nearly four billion dollars on Project Homekey — the state’s effort to turn motels and other buildings into long‑term housing for homeless residents. A new CalMatters investigation looks at how those projects have played out across the state.

Shandra Back

May 07, 2026

Northern California officials warn of early fire activity as state enters ‘fire year’

California now operates the largest wildfire aviation fleet in the world, and the Sonoma‑Lake‑Napa unit is among its biggest.

Shandra Back

May 07, 2026

4.2 Magnitude earthquake rattles Geysers area early Thursday morning

The small tremor was detected near the community of Cobb in Lake County. There were no immediate reports of injuries or damage.

Bay City News

May 06, 2026

Defending beef in DC? Marin County rancher, author, lawyer bids for 2nd Congressional seat

Nicollette Hahn Niman emphasizes the agricultural and rural character of the newly drawn 2nd District in her independent bid for Congress.

Noah Abrams

May 06, 2026

Large federal law‑enforcement presence reported at Rohnert Park apartment complex; local department says it was not ICE

Tenants who say they witnessed the response — and videos that appear to show the scene — describe a large law‑enforcement presence.

Shandra Back

May 05, 2026

Greer pledges local accountability and affordability focus in bid for state Assembly

Challenging Assembly member Chris Rogers is Mike Greer, a Del Norte County school board member and longtime education advocate.

Shandra Back

May 05, 2026

New Sonoma State president brings experience leading universities through turmoil

Spagna started his career in the mid-1980s, teaching civics, physics and algebra to middle schoolers at Westmark School, a private college-prep school in Southern California.

Kate Rix/EdSource

May 01, 2026

Prestwood Elementary School commemorates over 75 years of education with mural

The Sonoma Community Center coordinated the art project as a way to honor the school's legacy as it closes this month.

Michelle Marques

May 01, 2026

Candidates for Sonoma County's 2nd Supervisor share positions on housing, disaster prep at Petaluma forum

Four candidates are facing off to replace David Rabbitt as Sonoma County's 2nd District Supervisor.

Noah Abrams

May 01, 2026

Appeals court reverses conspiracy, trespassing convictions for activist

Prosecutors said Hsiung and others effectively shut down farm operations at both locations and chained themselves to fixtures at the duck farm.

Katy St. Clair/Bay City News & Greta Mart

Apr 30, 2026

Tim Kelly plots independent path in bid for 1st District Congressional seat

Kelly, a housing and tenant rights lawyer, says a national rent strike could help galvanize major political change across the country.

Noah Abrams

Apr 29, 2026

Sonoma County sheriff faces scrutiny after ICE information‑sharing policy violation

Advocates say these incidents highlight why they want greater transparency and a complete end to ICE collaboration.

Shandra Back

Apr 29, 2026

Public memorial service set for deceased people without family, financial means

When no next of kin can be located, or relatives cannot afford final arrangements, the deceased people are classified as unclaimed

Bay City News

Apr 28, 2026

Sonoma County passes ordinance restricting county support for federal immigration enforcement; advocates say it doesn’t go far enough

As the board was voting, community members and advocates started singing "We Shall Overcome" because they wanted the board to pass an even stronger local law.

Shandra Back and Greta Mart

Apr 28, 2026

On Workers Memorial Day, Sonoma County day laborers honor injured and fallen workers

At the Graton Day Labor Center, staff say they work closely with employers to ensure workers return home safely.

Shandra Back

Apr 27, 2026

Family questions Sonoma County jail arrest after man detained by ICE inside facility

Activists said the arrest should not have happened inside the building and urged the sheriff to end all contact with ICE.

Shandra Back

Apr 24, 2026

Artist selected to design the Sonoma County Fire Memorial

Creative Sonoma hosted an online conversation to introduce artist Cliff Garten.

Michelle Marques

Apr 23, 2026

Dry winter and later rains raise the chance for busy fire season

Late season grass and vegetation growth is raising the risk of wildfire, but state fire officials say they've got lots of resources to bring to bear.

Noah Abrams

Apr 22, 2026

Sonoma County expands free Health To Go vending machines

The machines look like standard vending machines, but instead of snacks, they’re stocked with free health and safety supplies.

Shandra Back

Apr 22, 2026

9th Circuit blocks California limits on anonymous immigration agents

An 1890 Supreme Court case provides that a state cannot prosecute federal law enforcement officers acting in the course of their duties.

Nigel Duara /CalMatters

Apr 21, 2026

From Haiti to Chile to Sonoma County: one asylum seeker’s search for safety

As immigration enforcement intensifies across the United States, many immigrant families in Sonoma County are retreating further into the shadows.

Shandra Back

Apr 21, 2026

Richard Minner calls for reforms to electoral process in outsider bid for Congress

Minner, a Santa Rosa resident drawn into the new District 1 by Prop 50, is brand new to electoral politics and campaigning.

Noah Abrams

Apr 20, 2026

Santa Rosa moves to expand wildfire risk zones

If passed by city elected officials, homeowners in the newly-added areas will have to maintain defensible space and follow Santa Rosa’s vegetation‑management rules.

Shandra Back

Apr 20, 2026

Pigs promote wildfire prevention at North Bay winery

“They love poison oak. They love finding bay nuts and acorns, and they don't mind the hard work.”

Tina Caputo

Apr 20, 2026

Napa County warns of property tax scams

Anyone who received a delinquency notice was urged not to ignore it, as it could be an indication the check was stolen and not received by the county.

Bay City News

Apr 17, 2026

Corrupt former Rohnert Park police officers to be sentenced in May

They would stop drivers along U.S. Highway 101 between Rohnert Park and into Mendocino County in order to extort cash and cannabis from them by threatening arrest.

Katy St. Clair/Bay City News

Apr 16, 2026

House District 2 candidate waves flag for peace in bid for seat in Congress

Rose Penelope Yee, a former candidate for CA House District 1, is challenging incumbent Jared Huffman for the newly drawn House District 2 seat.

Noah Abrams

Apr 15, 2026

How immigration raid fears are impacting children in Sonoma County

Mixed‑status families are juggling economic struggles, changes to health care access and logistical planning for a potential deportation. Mental health often becomes an afterthought.

Shandra Back

Apr 15, 2026

Sonoma County adds pair of mobile resource vans to Open Doors services hub

The custom fitted vans offer secure meeting spaces and an on-the-go hub for residents to access county services and support programs.

Noah Abrams

Apr 14, 2026

Anti-ICE protestors present ordinance to Marin County supervisors

The No ICE in Marin group has also called for the sheriff to adopt a zero-communication policy with federal employees.

Ruth Dusseault/Bay City News

Apr 10, 2026

California tax preparers see sharp drop as many undocumented immigrants stop filing

Undocumented immigrants contribute billions in sales tax revenue, and their consumer spending powers local businesses.

Shandra Back

Apr 10, 2026

California's 1st Congressional District sees double the elections as Prop 50 makeover looms

CA District 1 voters will see candidates for the new congressional seat on their June primary ballot, and in a special election with the current map in August.

Noah Abrams

Apr 09, 2026

The 'Judgment of Paris' tasting still matters to California wineries 50 years on

It was such a big moment in California’s wine history that it inspired a book, a movie, an opera—and even a rap song.

Tina Caputo

Apr 08, 2026

Despite record breaking March heatwave, wildland fire outlook normal for now in CA

Cal Fire crews in the North Bay have been responding to small fires in recent weeks, but the acreage burned is in range of previous years.

Noah Abrams

Apr 08, 2026

Sonoma County passes immigration non‑collaboration ordinance after activists detained

The disruption began when a group of activists stood and started singing inside the board chambers as supervisors debated a long‑anticipated ordinance limiting how county departments interact with federal immigration authorities.

Shandra Back

Apr 08, 2026

Sonoma County's youngest civil grand juror says she serves to "keep democracy alive in our community"

"We mention facts, findings, and recommendations....ways they can better whatever area we're researching," Aguilar says.

Greta Mart

Apr 07, 2026

Police stand-off closes off neighborhood in west Petaluma

One victim was released after about an hour and provided police with information on the suspect.

KRCB Newsroom

Apr 07, 2026

Ag Institute of Marin plans permanent farmer's market at Marin Civic Center

AIM - the Agricultural Institute of Marin - is building a new innovative permanent home for the Marin Farmer's Market.

Greta Mart & Noah Abrams

Apr 06, 2026

Immigrant truck drivers were supposed to get their licenses back. Why is California's DMV stalling?

Thousands of immigrant California truck drivers are in legal limbo after the Trump admin ordered the state to revoke their licenses earlier this year.

Adam Echelman - CalMatters

Apr 03, 2026

Small-scale dredging around North Bay cities could play key role in sustaining wetlands

A pilot project underway in Marin County could open the door to a new, lower-cost and lower-carbon method of wetland restoration.

Ruth Dusseault/Bay City News

Apr 02, 2026

Cal State students widely use AI tools, but mistrust results and fear job impact

A survey of 80,000 students enrolled at Sonoma State and CSU's other 21 campuses, plus faculty and staff, is the largest and most comprehensive study of how higher education students and instructors perceive artificial intelligence.

Kate Rix/EdSource

Apr 01, 2026

The fight to keep Women’s and Gender Studies alive at Sonoma State University

Recently, the school’s new president---Michael Spagna---told The Press Democrat he wants to reimagine Women’s and Gender Studies at Sonoma State.

Chelsea Kurnick

Mar 31, 2026

Sonoma State offered some of the nation’s first Women’s Studies classes; now they’re going away

A flyer from Spring 1976 lists almost 40 different classes, most taught by student instructors. Topics include "Survival as a Mother," "Seminar on Rape," "Lesbian Relationships," "Women and Weight," and even a radio production class called "Women on the Air."

Chelsea Kurnick

Mar 31, 2026

Local clinic puts ketamine assisted therapy in the spotlight

Liminal Medicine recently partnered with a Sonoma County health clinic to offer ketamine assisted group therapy to more patients.

Noah Abrams

Mar 28, 2026

Sonoma County turns out for third 'No Kings'

Gatherings large and small took place all over Sonoma County on Saturday; the largest in Santa Rosa.

Greta Mart & Michelle Marques

Mar 26, 2026

Cotati weighs options for response to federal immigration enforcement surge

Leaders in Sonoma County's smallest city say unity with other local governments will be a key part of any response.

Noah Abrams

Mar 26, 2026

Sonoma County mixed‑status families face some of the steepest income losses in the Bay Area if immigration raids occur, report finds

A new report looks at the economic impact of potential immigration enforcement across the Bay Area, and what those findings mean for Sonoma County.

Shandra Back

Mar 25, 2026

The Lost Church Santa Rosa reopens in new downtown venue

The theater had been closed since November 2025, and will reopen in a space connected to the Glaser Center.

Michelle Marques

Mar 25, 2026

Santa Rosa approves limits on ICE use of city property, says police won’t be asked to enforce them

The ordinance states that Santa Rosa property is reserved for city business, meaning ICE cannot use city‑owned facilities to stage operations.

Shandra Back

Mar 25, 2026

Mercado Rosa grand opening showcases Latino small businesses in Sonoma County

As local entrepreneurs look for new ways to reach customers, a Latino‑centered marketplace is launching in Sonoma County this weekend.

Shandra Back

Mar 25, 2026

Annual 'Pliny the Younger' release taps into something deeper

Every year around this time, thousands of beer lovers line up for the annual release of Russian River Brewing Company’s Pliny the Younger IPA.

Tina Caputo

Mar 24, 2026

Santa Rosa weighs ICE access to city property amid public safety concerns

City administrators say they’re recommending the ordinance in response to rising fear in immigrant communities.

Shandra Back

Mar 24, 2026

Gravensteins on the brink: Sonoma County's signature apple hangs on---just barely

They were to western Sonoma County what Kona is to macadamia nuts, or sockeye salmon to Bristol Bay: a food emblematic of the region.

Glen Martin /Bay City News

Mar 23, 2026

New Sonoma County plan outlines emergency response to federal immigration actions

Once the county decides the ICE presence is of enough impact, the department says it will notify the public, sending out alerts on social media in the same way it would about any other mass emergency.

Shandra Back

Mar 20, 2026

Sebastopol, Windsor cut ties with North Bay Animal Services

The troubled shelter service has already been dropped by Petaluma and Clearlake following revelations of substandard shelter conditions.

Noah Abrams

Mar 20, 2026

“A huge decrease in trust, especially in our immigrant community," says Santa Rosa's police chief on immigration fears

"I started in 1999 as a police officer, and from 1999 to now, never once, have I seen a local police officer ask immigration enforcement, arrest someone or detain them for their immigration status. It's completely separate and distinct," Cregan said.

Shandra Back

Mar 19, 2026

“I didn’t feel safe calling police." Fear of ICE is changing public safety in Santa Rosa

The impact on public safety is being felt beyond immigrant neighborhoods, says the city's police chief.

Shandra Back

Mar 18, 2026

Man yelled 'shoot me' before Santa Rosa police shooting, investigators say

The Santa Rosa Police Department will conduct a separate administrative review, and the officer involved has been placed on paid administrative leave.

Bay City News

Mar 18, 2026

Popular Estero Americano Preserve attracts wave of visitors and concern from neighbors

Sonoma County approved parking restrictions in the Bodega Harbor neighborhood, citing the need to allow emergency vehicle access to the area.

Noah Abrams

Mar 17, 2026

Former Press Democrat co-owner sued by billionaire mentor and close friend

Darius Anderson, a wealthy and well-connected political lobbyist himself, has been taken to court by Southern California businessman Ron Burkle.

Noah Abrams

Mar 16, 2026

Marin County construction trades program enables public housing residents to rebuild their own community

Thanks to a pilot program, some of the renovations at Marin City’s historic Golden Gate Village will be done by the project’s tenants.

Ruth Dusseault/Bay City News

Mar 13, 2026

2nd District Supervisor David Rabbitt won't seek fifth term as four candidates jump in the race

Rabbitt, on the Board of Supervisors since 2010 made a late announcement he wouldn't run. Four candidates are vying to replace him.

Noah Abrams

Mar 13, 2026

California lawmakers grill DMV director on deadly failures

The project has found that the state of California -- led by the DMV -- routinely allows dangerous drivers with horrifying histories to continue to get behind the wheel, where they go on to kill.

Lauren Hepler and Robert Lewis/CalMatters

Mar 12, 2026

Reviewing the abrupt closure of Sebastopol's Soft Medicine

"When it opened in 2022, people in Sebastopol were really thrilled because it was like this kind of gorgeous, non-alcoholic elixir bar and event space."

Michelle Marques

Mar 12, 2026

Audrey Denney calls out corporate influence in Washington as she runs for CA 1st District House seat

Denney, a Chico Democrat, is campaigning for the newly-drawn 1st District seat. She twice ran against the late Rep. Doug LaMalfa, in 2018 and 2020.

Noah Abrams

Mar 12, 2026

Marin County's TRUTH Act forum reveals how a blue county responds to national ICE crackdown

The fingerprints and booking information for all individuals booked into the Marin County Jail are sent to the California Department of Justice, which shares the data with federal agencies.

Ruth Dusseault/Bay City News

Mar 11, 2026

Wineries suffer tariff hangovers despite SCOTUS ruling

According to a new report from the Wine Institute, 2025 was the most catastrophic single-year trade decline in the history of U.S. wine exports.

Tina Caputo

Mar 10, 2026

Santa Rosa prepares for March 28 'No Kings' protest as police expect record crowds

The Santa Rosa Police Department is preparing for crowds even larger than last fall’s march, which drew more than 10,000 people, one of the biggest demonstrations in the city’s history.

Shandra Back

Mar 10, 2026

CSU sues to challenge 'lawless overreach' in federal Title IX probe

In January, the Trump Administration announced it was investigating Santa Rosa Junior College and 17 other schools for "allegations of discrimination against women and girls by entities which reportedly allow males to compete in women’s sports."

Amy DiPierro/EdSource

Mar 09, 2026

Measure to continue funding Sonoma Marin Area Rail Transit heading before voters

Voters across Sonoma and Marin counties will be asked whether to extend the 1/4 cent sales tax funding the passenger rail service to 2059.

Noah Abrams

Mar 09, 2026

Marin County considers waste collection rate hike in West Marin

Recology sought approval to purchase two new garbage trucks for the region, which would have pushed the total proposed increase to 21.8%.

Ruth Dusseault/Bay City News

Mar 09, 2026

Checking in with Santa Rosa Junior College's Oak Leaf staff

The publication's co-editor-in-chief says the current class is one of the largest in recent memory.

Greta Mart

Mar 05, 2026

Healdsburg exploring community led housing land trust

The housing trust would function similar to a wilderness trust, buying select properties independent of the city, but would use them for new homes.

Noah Abrams

Mar 05, 2026

Immigrant workforce central to Sonoma County’s economic stability, experts tell 2026 Economic Perspective

Speakers at the 2026 Economic Perspective describe how immigrant participation shapes economic life in Sonoma County.

Shandra Back

Mar 04, 2026

After La Onda cancellation, Sonoma County leaders work to keep Latino celebrations going

Luna Media USA hosts four large free events every year, including El Grito Fest, which attracted thousands of people to downtown Santa Rosa in the fall. But in some cases, they said, partners have been concerned about immigration enforcement and pulled out of events.

Shandra Back

Mar 04, 2026

CA GOP lawmakers are incensed over a gas tax study; rural groups say they need it

California has taxed drivers at the gas pump since 1923 and relies on that revenue for 80% of the state's highway maintenance and road repairs.

Yue Stella Yu/CalMatters

Mar 03, 2026

Petaluma pulls back controversial downtown zoning rules

Petaluma's city council chose to repeal a contested general plan amendment instead of putting the issue to voters following a public referendum.

Noah Abrams

Mar 03, 2026

Sonoma County supervisors vote to put SMART measure on June ballot

In total, 71,847 signatures were filed across Marin and Sonoma counties, meeting the requirement that at least 10 percent of the district's registered voters support placing the measure on the ballot.

Ruth Dusseault/Bay City News

Mar 02, 2026

State Senator Mike McGuire says Democrats need to stand up and fight

KRCB News asked McGuire what the Democratic Party needs to do to unite, after McGuire clashed with the chair of the state Democratic Party at their convention in San Francisco.

Michelle Marques

Mar 02, 2026

He saw an abandoned trailer. Then, he uncovered a surveillance network on California's border

Now as many as 40 are feeding information into Trump administration databases as the Democratic-led state chafes over the federal government's massive deportation program.

Wendy Fry and Khari Johnson/CalMatters

Feb 27, 2026

Bird flu detected in elephant seals along Bay Area coast

At least 30 pups have been infected.

Capitol Public Radio

Feb 26, 2026

Sonoma County day laborers face fewer jobs amid a harsher national immigration climate

Sonoma County’s job market still hasn’t recovered from the pandemic, and agriculture, the sector many day laborers rely on, is contracting.

Shandra Back

Feb 25, 2026

Los Cien urges Sonoma County to end voluntary ICE cooperation

The Latino leadership organization says rising national immigration enforcement is creating real fear locally, and county leaders need to draw a clear line.

Shandra Back

Feb 24, 2026

Sonoma-Marin rail system tax extension will appear on June ballot

As a citizen initiative, only a simple majority is required to enact the sales tax extension.

Ruth Dusseault/Bay City News

Feb 24, 2026

Portion of Highway 1 closed north of Fort Bragg

The highway is closed from MacKerricher State Park to Bruhel Point Road because of flooding and a possible slide.

Sarah Stierch/Bay City News

Feb 24, 2026

Evacuation warning issued for area of Guerneville due to landslide risk

The evacuation warning went out for Neeley Road and Orchard Avenue in Guerneville due to a landslide and tree fall risk.

Katy St. Clair/Bay City News

Feb 20, 2026

2 sentenced in fraud scheme posing as roofing contractors

Marin County's district attorney's office urges homeowners to verify that contractors have a valid license before agreeing to any work by checking the California State Department of Consumer Affairs website.

Bay City News

Feb 20, 2026

Avalanche expert explains why thin snowpack made Sierra conditions so dangerous

The avalanche struck a group of 15 backcountry skiers near Castle Peak during a winter storm Tuesday morning.

Greg Micek/Capitol Public Radio

Feb 18, 2026

Public’s help is critical in preventing mosquito‑borne diseases, district says

One of the biggest concerns, according to the Marin Sonoma Mosquito and Vector Control District, is invasive Aedes mosquitoes, which are not native to the area.

Shandra Back

Feb 17, 2026

Small Napa County winery contests 'ruinous' fine over on-site tasting

The seeds of the court battle involving Hoopes Winery were planted in 2020, when the county said wine tastings and tours weren't allowed at the property.

Kiley Russell/Bay City News

Feb 17, 2026

Money is tight and campus fees are rising at Cal State schools

Rising fees have prompted outcry from some students, particularly when the Cal State system is increasing tuition while cutting course sections and degrees because money is so tight.

Amy DiPierro/EdSource

Feb 17, 2026

Lightning strike knocks out power to Santa Rosa elementary school

Lightning reportedly struck a power pole outside of the campus.

Bay City News

Feb 16, 2026

Interview: First 5 Sonoma County distributes funds from Measure I

The Sonoma County Child Care & Children's Health Initiative was passed by voters in 2024, authorizing a quarter-cent sales tax.

Michelle Marques

Feb 13, 2026

Shoppers injured after car crashes into front of Santa Rosa grocery store

The car drove through the storefront and into the check stand area just before noon.

Bay City News & KRCB News

Feb 12, 2026

Santa Rosa weighs options for limiting city cooperation with federal immigration authorities

Sonoma County's largest city hasn't taken any concrete steps yet, but could limit Immigration & Customs Enforcement from accessing city property.

Noah Abrams

Feb 12, 2026

Local construction company BoDean agrees to nearly $1.3 million air pollution fine

The $1.28 million collected as part of the settlement will go towards funding projects that will improve air quality in the nine counties that the Bay Area Air District encompasses.

Thomas Hughes/Bay City News

Feb 11, 2026

Sonoma city manager selected as next Sonoma County executive

Guhin has a master's degree in organizational development from Sonoma State University.

Bay City News

Feb 11, 2026

Sonoma County Commission on Human Rights marks 100 years of Black history commemorations

60,000 Black people call Sonoma County home.

Greta Mart

Feb 11, 2026

Sonoma County awards over $10 million for homeless and mental health care but doubts over future funding remain

The money, awarded by Sonoma County's Department of Health Services, will go to 18 different community organizations and city partners.

Noah Abrams

Feb 09, 2026

Santa Rosa prepares for federal immigration operations as council reviews public safety concerns

The topics include urging Congress to adopt stronger training and conduct standards for federal immigration agents, and exploring a local rule, modeled after one in San Jose, that would bar federal immigration officers from using city‑owned property as staging or processing sites.

Shandra Back

Feb 09, 2026

Wildlife advocates threaten lawsuit against Trump administration over Clear Lake Hitch

The Center for Biological Diversity has notified the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service they intend to go to court to get protections for the threatened fish.

Noah Abrams

Feb 06, 2026

Sebastopol asking for input on possible traffic flow changes

The city is asking for responses to a public survey about changes to traffic flow around the Sebastopol Plaza, and on Main Street and Petaluma Avenue.

Noah Abrams

Feb 06, 2026

Carpool hours set to change again on Highway 101 in Marin and Sonoma

Caltrans is shifting the morning HOV hours during commute times to run from 6 AM - 9 AM, and the afternoon hours from 3 PM - 6:30 PM.

Noah Abrams

Feb 06, 2026

Cal State to back three proposals on nursing ed, campus safety and more

The university system estimates its backlog of deferred maintenance exceeds $8.6 billion; CSU is now banking on a statewide bond measure to help chip away at those towering costs.

Amy DiPierro/EdSource

Feb 04, 2026

Popular Sonoma County vegetable farm hopes for permanent sale

Tierra Vegetables has operated near the Sonoma County Airport since 2002. Now siblings Lee and Wayne James are looking to buy the farm land.

Noah Abrams

Feb 04, 2026

Inside Santa Rosa’s Taco Tuesday bike ride, a weekly community gathering

“We're here for each other and for bikes and just to get outside and have a good time,” said co‑founder Juan Chavez of the weekly Santa Rosa ride.

Shandra Back

Feb 02, 2026

Museum of Sonoma County seeking $100K for 'Running Fence' anniversary exhibit

Christo and Jeanne-Claude's massive art installation spanned Sonoma and Marin counties in 1976, attracting global interest to the North Bay.

Michelle Marques

Jan 30, 2026

Sonoma County board chair responds to public frustration over immigrant community support

"I come from a mixed‑status family," said Hermosillo. "I understand the impacts. I also understand the impacts of when you come to the United States, there are laws that we all have to follow."

Shandra Back

Jan 30, 2026

Q&A: Sonoma County’s new 2026 board chair focuses on ‘innovative’ strategies amid federal budget cuts

Hermosillo discusses housing, nonprofit strain and new service models as federal cuts take effect.

Shandra Back

Jan 29, 2026

Inside the Sonoma County “Clothing Closet” helping teens access free clothes

Volunteer Jennifer Roventini, who runs the closet, says she got involved after hearing a student presentation at a school board meeting about five years ago.

Shandra Back

Jan 29, 2026

Bachelors degrees at community colleges: lawmakers say yes, UC and CSU say slow down

Community colleges say the state is too big and spread out to limit public four-year degrees to just the Cal State and UC.

Mikhail Zinshteyn/CalMatters

Jan 28, 2026

Possible hydrogen cyanide leak investigation prompts shelter-in-place order

Just after 6 p.m. on Wednesday, the county sheriff's office lifted all shelter orders.

KRCB Newsroom

Jan 28, 2026

Santa Rosa healthcare workers mourn nurse shot by federal immigration agent in Minneapolis

“This could have been us. It’s heartbreaking. In a sense, we are all Alex," said one local healthcare worker.

Shandra Back

Jan 27, 2026

"It's slowly getting better;" Sonoma State students and faculty mark one year since announcement of dramatic cuts

This week, professors and students marked one year since the 2025 academic and athletic cuts at SSU; they delivered a box of messages to new SSU President Michael Spagna.

Noah Abrams

Jan 26, 2026

Sonoma County supervisor calls ICE actions ‘abhorrent’ and urges end to any local cooperation

Supervisor Chris Coursey is condemning ICE's actions and calls for Sonoma County to end all collaboration with ICE, which continues at the level of the sheriff’s office.

Shandra Back

Jan 26, 2026

CA cities just saw their lowest homicide rates in decades; it's not clear why

California's population was about 20 million people the last time the state recorded such low homicide numbers, half of what it is today.

Nigel Duara /CalMatters

Jan 23, 2026

Sonoma County leader shifts views on ICE collaboration

Sonoma County Supervisor Chris Coursey says in a statement he no longer supports the county’s cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Shandra Back

Jan 22, 2026

Napa County health officials confirm isolated measles case, first since 2012

Napa County health officials say all exposed individuals have been notified, and that the infected child is recovering at home.

Noah Abrams

Jan 21, 2026

Sonoma State welcomes new president

The new president said his goals are to increase enrollment; review, support and expand the university's academic programs; and to explore reviving athletics at the school.

Bay City News

Jan 20, 2026

Northern California cities contend with federal lawsuit over on-hold building code

The U.S. Department of Justice is suing Petaluma, and the City of Morgan Hill, over their now-suspended bans on new natural gas hook ups.

Noah Abrams

Jan 19, 2026

Santa Rose Junior College facing federal investigation over transgender athlete policies

This comes the same week the U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments on behalf of transgender athletes barred by their states from participating in women's and girls' sports.

Emma Gallegos/EdSource

Jan 16, 2026

Windsor school board faces backlash after rejecting ‘Scythe’ from curriculum

“I think this is a wake up call for all of us in Sonoma County," said Windsor Library Commissioner Deborah Doyle. "We don't want to be banning books.”

Shandra Back

Jan 14, 2026

LandPaths acquires historic 69-acre Calvi Ranch near Occidental

There are currently no trails on the property; LandPaths staff say the site will not be ready for public access for at least two-to-three years.

Shandra Back

Jan 14, 2026

Governor denies Louisiana's request to extradite Sonoma County-based doctor

Louisiana prosecutors have accused the Sonoma County-based doctor of shipping abortion medication into the state, prompting a legal clash.

Sara Cline AP/KRCB staff

Jan 13, 2026

Tenants at Sebastopol's Woodmark Apartments still in their units in the new year

The remaining 14 households, who have been holding out against threats of eviction since the fall, have now formed an organized tenant union.

Noah Abrams

Jan 12, 2026

So far, so good...Bodega Bay crabbers cautiously optimistic as season gets underway

“Our whole fishing economy now is on wheels, going out of state; there's no more processors in California, except for Anthony’s [Seafood of Bodega Bay] here and Pier 45—that's it for cooking crabs,” said one Bodega Bay crabber.

Jacob Resneck

Jan 12, 2026

Cyclist dies after train collision Monday morning

The cyclist wasn't carrying identification and police are trying to figure out who he was.

Kiley Russell/Bay City News

Jan 11, 2026

Thousands gather in Santa Rosa's Courthouse Square to protest fatal ICE shooting

The rally was organized by multiple groups including the local chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America.

Michelle Marques

Jan 09, 2026

Parents sue Healdsburg private school over student's August 2025 death

The then 15 year old student died after using a makeshift water slide on the boarding school campus east of Healdsburg.

Noah Abrams

Jan 09, 2026

3 coastal beaches cleared for public use after Russian River sewage spill

Beaches on the Russian River downstream from the Russian River County Sanitation District treatment plant spill in Guerneville are still off-limits; the plant on Neeley Road was overwhelmed during heavy rains Tuesday night.

Kiley Russell/Bay City News

Jan 08, 2026

Indivisible Sonoma County weighs in on Avelo Airlines' decision to halt deportation flights

The local grassroots organization organized months of protests at the Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport in 2025.

Michelle Marques

Jan 08, 2026

Bodega Bay crabbing fleet heads out to sea despite price uncertainties

Crab associations in Bodega Bay and elsewhere announced the fleets were sitting out this week’s opening because buyers had refused to commit to what they considered to be a fair price.

Jacob Resneck

Jan 07, 2026

Sonoma County Office of Education offers free mental health workshops for families

The first series of workshops in January are in partnership with Common Sense Media.

Michelle Marques

Jan 07, 2026

Windsor school board rejects award-winning YA novel, prompting censorship debate

A multi-award-winning young adult science fiction novel has been removed from the Windsor school district’s proposed curriculum, sparking a local debate over censorship and classroom content.

Shandra Back

Jan 06, 2026

Storm runoff and tidal surge bring glimpse into forecast future for Marin's waterfront

U.S. Rep. Jared Huffman and Marin County officials toured the aftermath of weekend flooding that inundated homes and snarled traffic.

Noah Abrams/Ruth Dussealt

Jan 06, 2026

Two teens shot in brazen robbery at Santa Rosa Transit Mall

Santa Rosa PD says the suspects were wearing ski masks and are still at large.

Michelle Marques

Jan 06, 2026

Rep. Doug LaMalfa, longtime NorCal lawmaker, dies at 65

LaMalfa was known for his dedication to water access and forestry management, key issues for his largely rural district. His death leaves House Republicans with an even more precarious majority that could struggle to pass Republican legislation.

Maya C. Miller/CalMatters

Jan 05, 2026

Emergency repairs sought after Sonoma Valley Sanitation pipeline rupture

Sonoma County supervisors are prepping to okay emergency repairs of burst pipe in the Sonoma Valley reclamation system.

Shandra Back

Jan 04, 2026

E-bike safety; a recent Marin County crash prompts change

KRCB News speaks with the author of a recent New York Times Magazine cover story on e-bikes.

Greta Mart

Jan 03, 2026

Stay informed on unfolding Venezuala story

Get the latest news updates on the unfolding situation with Venezuela and the U.S. arrest of Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro.

Kelly Olsen

Jan 02, 2026

California faces grim budget outlook to start 2026

Disaster aid for the LA wildfires and ballooning Medi-Cal costs erased predictions of a small surplus, and the state now faces an $18 billion deficit.

Yue Stella Yu/CalMatters

Dec 31, 2025

Sonoma County holiday events

There are still a few options for holiday '25 fun.

Shandra Back

Dec 31, 2025

Recent North Bay winter shark encounters fall out of the ordinary seasonal pattern

Bodega Bay sits at the north point of the "Red Triangle" a shark hot spot. Incidents involving humans in the area often occur in the autumn months.

Noah Abrams

Dec 30, 2025

California Dungeness crab season nears opening day

Commercial boats will be allowed to set a limited number of traps from the Sonoma-Mendocino county line south to Pt. Conception starting Jan. 5.

Noah Abrams

Dec 30, 2025

Northern California ICE arrests surge; Sonoma County mother describes fallout

ICE arrests across Northern California have more than tripled this year, recent data shows. Those arrests affect not only the individuals detained but also the families left behind.

Shandra Back

Dec 29, 2025

Data reveals ICE arrests across Northern California more than tripled this year

As ICE arrests continue to increase, a recent study finds that 48% of people ICE arrested in Northern California have no criminal record.

Shandra Back

Dec 26, 2025

Trump administration to review proposed dam removal in Mendocino, Lake counties

Water from the system is used in multiple counties, including Sonoma County.

Sarah Stierch/Bay City News

Dec 24, 2025

Santa Rosa's (not so secret) teenage Secret Santa raises over $40,000 for holiday gifts

Cannon Meiers has raised over $84,000 over 12 years to donate Christmas gifts through CVNL's Sonoma County Secret Santa program.

Noah Abrams

Dec 24, 2025

Thousands lose power across Northern California during strong overnight storm

Pacific Gas and Electric says over 125,000 customers lost power in Northern and Central California, as overnight winds hit 109 miles an hour.

Bay City News

Dec 23, 2025

Pediatric clinic at Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital to close in March

Providence says the decision is due to low use of the bed space, but the move means pediatric patients will have to travel to SF for long term care.

Noah Abrams

Dec 22, 2025

More rain blowing into the North Bay through Christmas week

Some parts of Sonoma County received close to five inches of rain over the past 72 hours, with more on the way.

Noah Abrams

Dec 22, 2025

What's next for Medi-Cal? A former state health leader weighs in

A new statewide commission is charged with creating a 10-year blueprint for a program that covers more than 14 million low-income residents and pays for key services from childbirth to nursing home care.

Ana B. Ibarra/CalMatters

Dec 21, 2025

Rohnert Park couple forfeit cash for allegedly operating illegal fish biz from home

The couple was accused of using a fishing vessel that wasn't commercially registered, using people who weren't commercially licensed, and failing to file paperwork that allowed them to circumvent paying fees and declaring fish sales for tax purposes.

Bay City News

Dec 19, 2025

Data reveals wide gaps in Sonoma County school performance

New reporting shows Sonoma County’s high schools have rising graduation rates but persistently low test scores, revealing wide gaps in student performance.

Shandra Back

Dec 17, 2025

Neighbors roundly concerned with large townhouse project on historic Carrillo Adobe property

Swenson Builders is floating plans to build 162 three-story townhomes on the Carrillo Adobe property, a historic landmark in Santa Rosa.

Noah Abrams

Dec 17, 2025

Tenants at Sebastopol's Woodmark Apartments remain in wait as new year looms

The Press Democrat's Marisa Endicott speaks with KRCB News about her latest reporting on the situation at the Woodmark Apartment complex.

Noah Abrams

Dec 16, 2025

Coming rain should dispel month-long tule fog conditions

A National Weather Service meteorologist says she recommends an early start on home storm prep, with a stronger storm system forecast for the Christmas holiday week.

Noah Abrams

Dec 16, 2025

While thousands of acres of grape vines are being pulled out, why are these wineries replanting?

“I wouldn't say it was an easy decision, but it was the right decision in thinking about the future of the brand for the next 50 years—not the next three to five."

Tina Caputo

Dec 16, 2025

Sonoma County health centers urge enrollment before Medi‑Cal cutoff

Health centers in Sonoma County are urging eligible immigrants to sign up for Medi‑Cal before the Dec. 31 deadline.

Shandra Back

Dec 15, 2025

KRCB Interview: CalMatters politics reporter on Mike McGuire's congressional run

The new California congressional District 1 is "drawn in a way where just by sheer numbers, registered Democrats outnumber registered Republican voters."

Greta Mart

Dec 15, 2025

Planners tussle with developer over environmental impact of Lucas Valley subdivision

The houses will be built one way or another. In May, the development was permitted ministerially through a Housing Compliance Report, a streamlined process set in place by the state's 2019 Housing Accountability Act.

Ruth Dusseault/Bay City News

Dec 12, 2025

Sebastopol doctor at the center of Texas lawsuit over abortion care

The Sebastopol doctor has been sent a cease and desist letter from Texas' Attorney General, and is wanted in Louisiana for mailing mifepristone.

Noah Abrams

Dec 12, 2025

Sonoma County father weighs self-deportation after weeks in ICE custody

State experts say the Trump administration is pressuring immigrants to leave the country by detaining them for minor infractions and using unlawful tactics.

Shandra Back

Dec 11, 2025

Cloverdale approves water supply assessment for proposed Esmeralda development

The water supply assessment found Cloverdale can take on the increased demand from the new subdivision if built as planned in 2040.

Noah Abrams

Dec 10, 2025

Volunteer training starts soon for free tax preparation program

United Way of the Wine Country is training tax preparers, intake coordinators and Spanish language interpreters.

Michelle Marques

Dec 10, 2025

Bipartisan bill aims to ease Trump tariff strain on wine and specialty crop farmers

North Bay congressman Mike Thompson partners with Doug LaMalfa in writing a bill providing direct payments to growers of winegrapes, nuts, fruit and vegetables who can show financial losses from the tariffs.

Sarah Stierch/Bay City News

Dec 09, 2025

Next-generation Clipper cards set to make rides smoother, cheaper for regional travelers

Locally, over 20 public transit agencies across the nine Bay Area counties -- including Marin, Napa and Sonoma -- are a part of the cloud-based system update.

Andres Jimenez Larios/Bay City News

Dec 08, 2025

Report shows Santa Rosa Junior College generates over 5% of Sonoma County's annual GDP

The report finds that roughly 1 in 17 jobs in Sonoma County is filled by a SRJC alum or supported by the college's operations.

Bay City News

Dec 05, 2025

SMART track crossing at Jennings Avenue in Santa Rosa clears important hurdle

Santa Rosa approved a revised agreement on legal liability for the project and pedestrian crossing, which now goes before the SMART board.

Noah Abrams

Dec 04, 2025

State cannabis excise tax revenue tops $177M after short‑lived rate increase

Sonoma County ranks among California’s top cannabis buyers per capita.

Shandra Back

Dec 03, 2025

Animal rights activist handed 90-day sentence for 2023 action at Petaluma Poultry

Zoe Rosenberg was found guilty in October of conspiracy and trespass from the 2023 incursion, where she took 4 chickens from Petaluma Poultry.

Noah Abrams

Dec 03, 2025

Santa Rosa's police department asks for funding boost as mental health calls increase

The Santa Rosa Police Department is asking the city council to approve state grant funding allowing for six new employee hires to keep the crisis response team on-call daily.

Shandra Back

Dec 01, 2025

Bay Area leaders mark World AIDS Day with vow to achieve zero new HIV infections

According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 40.8 million people were living with HIV globally in 2024.

Ruth Dusseault/Bay City News

Nov 30, 2025

High surf advisory, sneaker waves expected on coast through midweek

Breaking waves are forecast to be 10-14 feet high with lulls of 10-20 minutes or longer in between sets.

Bay City News

Nov 28, 2025

Apple TV spotlights Michelin-starred Mendocino Coast chef in new reality show

Kammerer's food is rooted in what grows and lives around Elk; nearly everything on the menu starts at the restaurant's 300-bed farm, which, depending on the season, supplies up to 90% of the produce served at the hotel.

Mandela Linder/Bay City News

Nov 28, 2025

Drivers remain rolling as roundabout at Big Bend awaits final touches

The roundabout at the intersection of State Route 116 and State Route 121 has been partially open since January 2025.

Noah Abrams

Nov 26, 2025

Potter Valley Project public workshop focuses on future water sources after decommissioning

The century-plus-old infrastructure was built in the middle of significant fish spawning grounds, which has harmed Native groups, their treaty-protected fishing rights and traditional practices.

Sydney Fishman/Bay City News

Nov 26, 2025

State Senator Mike McGuire says California voters want change in Congress

McGuire spoke with KRCB News this week about his motivation to run for the newly redrawn 1st congressional district seat.

Michelle Marques

Nov 25, 2025

Santa Rosa lines up interim city manager to take over in January

Lori Ann Farrell, a longtime civil servant from Southern California has been tapped for the job, once Maraskeshia Smith heads to Sacramento.

Noah Abrams

Nov 25, 2025

Fort Bragg PD says its Flock cameras are keeping privacy intact

Use of the popular public safety camera system has faced increasing pushback in recent months.

Devon Dean/Bay City News

Nov 25, 2025

Santa Cruz-area winegrowers create new heritage district to attract tourism

The new Santa Cruz Mountains Heritage District is located within the Santa Cruz American Viticultural Area, which comprises approximately 1,600 acres of vineyards.

Sarah Stierch/Bay City News

Nov 24, 2025

Santa Rosa drug and alcohol recovery center expansion approved by Planning Commission

The Press Democrat's Paulina Pineda speaks with KRCB News about the recovery center's plans to expand and neighborhood opposition.

Noah Abrams

Nov 24, 2025

Suspect in Cloverdale homicide found dead after standoff with sheriff SWAT team in Santa Rosa

A shelter-in-place order was issued by the Santa Rosa Police Department during the response.

Bay City News

Nov 21, 2025

New federal proposal would consider use of SNAP, Medicaid in green card applications

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security under the Trump Administration announced this week it wants to roll back a Biden-era rule that broadened eligibility for green card applicants.

Shandra Back

Nov 20, 2025

Trump administration announces plan for new oil drilling off California coast

Governor Newsom calls the plan idiotic, North Bay Congressman Jared Huffman says it's asinine and Senator Alex Padilla calls it outrageous.

Matthew Daly & Matthew Brown/AP and Greta Mart

Nov 20, 2025

Rohnert Park's plans for a new downtown take big step forward

The 6400 State Farm Drive property, once a campus owned by the insurance giant, will be the site of the city's future downtown.

Noah Abrams

Nov 20, 2025

Pest control firms agree to settlement with Sonoma and several other CA counties for violations

Three pest control companies that improperly disposed of hazardous waste at dozens of sites around the state and failed to secure sensitive customer records have agreed to pay over $3.1 million.

Thomas Hughes/Bay City News

Nov 19, 2025

"People are going to die;" Bay Area homelessness leaders speak out about federal HUD cuts

Michael Gause, ending homelessness manager for the Sonoma County Department of Health Services, says the changes felt like a gut punch.

Aly Brown/Bay City News

Nov 19, 2025

Decommissioning process moves forward for Potter Valley Project dams

According to the City of Cloverdale, the pending decommissioning raises questions about long-term water reliability for Cloverdale and other downstream communities like Geyserville.

Manola Secaira/CapRadio

Nov 19, 2025

Sonoma State announces new president

Michael E. Spagna, currently interim president of Cal Poly Humboldt, will take over at Sonoma State in January.

Bay City News/Noah Abrams

Nov 18, 2025

Cal State wants to offer bigger raises to campus presidents while cutting elsewhere

The president of the California Faculty Association, which represents 29,000 members, said in an interview the executives have mismanaged state and tuition money and don’t deserve raises.

Mikhail Zinshteyn/CalMatters

Nov 17, 2025

Wave powered desalination buoy arrives in Fort Bragg ahead of test launch

The City of Fort Bragg and Quebec-based Oneka Technologies are partnering on the first-in-California wave powered desalination program.

Noah Abrams

Nov 17, 2025

WinterBlast draws thousands to Santa Rosa for magical lighted parade

The annual event features decorated sofas that are pushed down South A Street, as well as music, art, and winter fun.

Michelle Marques

Nov 14, 2025

Sonoma County volunteers start 'Grocery Buddy' Facebook group to keep neighbors fed

The group has now buddied over 65 different families in two weeks, and packaged 40 emergency boxes, all from Jackson's living room.

Shandra Back

Nov 13, 2025

Catholic Charities calls on Sonoma County to give the gift of citizenship

The total cost of test fees, legal services and classes is about $1,400 per person.

Shandra Back

Nov 13, 2025

Short-lived atmospheric river lashes Bay Area

Despite some impressive rainfall totals---close to 4 inches in some areas---the rain brought minimal disruption and damage to Sonoma County.

Noah Abrams

Nov 13, 2025

Schools, farms grapple with lost funding after federal program is gutted

The amount of money a school receives -- and now stands to lose from the Local Food for Schools program -- depends on its size,

Mallika Seshadri/EdSource

Nov 13, 2025

Controversial anti-Semite with Sonoma County ties faces federal trial in Tennessee

The man, a former Petaluma resident, founded in 2018 what has been described as a "loosely organized neo-Nazi network."

Noah Abrams

Nov 13, 2025

Democrat Mike McGuire challenges GOP Rep. Doug LaMalfa for new Prop. 50 seat

McGuire will face heavy skepticism from some northern rural residents in the 1st Congressional District.

Maya C. Miller/CalMatters

Nov 13, 2025

Debate continues over calls for Sonoma County sanctuary designation

Some immigration rights activists are lobbying county supervisors to officially name Sonoma County a 'sanctuary county,' but others are concerned the designation will simply put a bullseye on Sonoma County.

Shandra Back

Nov 12, 2025

North Bay small farmers suffer trickle-down impacts of federal shutdown

Agricultural Institute of Marin members include over 400 small to mid-sized farmers, ranchers, fishers, dairy producers and food makers.

Ruth Dusseault/Bay City News

Nov 12, 2025

Northern lights visible over Northern California as solar storm slams into Earth

A series of coronal mass ejections over the past week have made aurora borealis - the Northern Lights - visible across the U.S.

Noah Abrams

Nov 12, 2025

Educator Colby Smart announces 2026 run for Jared Huffman's seat

Smart is an Independent from Eureka and is running to unseat Rep. Jared Huffman in California’s 2nd congressional district in the 2026 midterm election.

Sarah Stierch/Bay City News

Nov 11, 2025

With some help from his friends, local teen creates 'Sonoma County Honor Field'

The Honor Field will be on display through the weekend, with closing ceremonies taking place on Sunday, Nov. 16. from 11 to 2 pm.

Greta Mart

Nov 11, 2025

North Bay congressmen criticize latest deal to end government shutdown

“We were not doing this to shut down the government, we were doing this to try to prevent the healthcare system from crashing," Jared Huffman told KRCB News.

Greta Mart & Stephen Groves/Associated Press

Nov 10, 2025

Cancellations continue across Bay Area airports weeks before major holiday travel

Four flights have been cancelled Monday at Sonoma County's regional airport, according to FlightAware.

Andres Jimenez Larios/Bay City News

Nov 07, 2025

Federal shutdown means no Coast Guard in this year's Petaluma Veterans parade

The event's organizer says they'll have a different group of veterans leading the parade this year.

Noah Abrams

Nov 07, 2025

Press Democrat reporter talks latest details in Ken Mattson's bankruptcy case

Many of disgraced real estate mogul Ken Mattson's property holdings are nearing, or have gone to market as the bankruptcy case proceeds.

Noah Abrams

Nov 06, 2025

Food bank in "crisis mode" receives overwhelming community support

With federal assistance to buy food on pause, since November 1st due to the federal shutdown, Sonoma County residents are going hungry.

Shandra Back

Nov 06, 2025

Sonoma County responds to urgent need for food as CalFresh benefits are halted

A new program facilitates porch pick-ups for food donations, and the county Board of Supervisors are allocating emergency funds to Redwood Empire Food Bank.

Michelle Marques

Nov 06, 2025

Sebastopol approves targeted and temporary renter protections

The 'just cause' tenant protections, spurred on by the mass eviction threat at the Woodmark Apartments, will expire in January 2027.

Noah Abrams

Nov 05, 2025

ELECTION RESULTS: Prop. 50 passing; in Petaluma, Measure I not reaching 2/3 threshold

Proposition 50 is passing in Sonoma County, by a long shot, with 74% 'yes' votes so far.

Greta Mart

Nov 04, 2025

Sonoma County records first bird flu outbreaks of winter season

Press Democrat reporter Phil Barber speaks with KRCB News about the outbreaks at commercial poultry facilities in Sonoma County.

Noah Abrams

Nov 04, 2025

New poll finds Latino voters are most concerned about cost of living, inflation

If Prop 50 passes, Latinos could gain more representation in newly drawn districts, making their votes even more critical as the 2026 midterms approach.

Gerardo Zavala/CapRadio

Nov 03, 2025

Rain and strong winds forecast to move into Sonoma County over next 48 hours

A National Weather Service forecaster said wind gusts could touch 50 miles an hour, likely bringing down some trees and branches.

Noah Abrams

Nov 02, 2025

'Renaissance Petaluma' embraces proposed Appellation hotel as good for downtown business

After Charlie Palmer opened Hotel Healdsburg and Dry Creek Kitchen in 2001, it sparked a transformational influx of upscale businesses in downtown Healdsburg that alienated some residents.

Tina Caputo

Oct 31, 2025

Protesters call for non-collaboration ordinance outside of county jail

A non-collaboration ordinance is what protesters want the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors to pass: it would make it clear the county’s policy prohibits the sheriff from working with ICE.

Shandra Back

Oct 31, 2025

'This American Life' creator and host visits Santa Rosa on tour

"It is just an odd time to be a journalist when so much of the country is not interested in the facts of things," said Glass.

Shandra Back

Oct 31, 2025

California's Senate leader tells KRCB News why he thinks Prop. 50 is crucial

"Everything the Republicans are doing in red states: Missouri, Texas, Florida, the Carolinas— that redistricting is permanent. In California, it's temporary.”

Michelle Marques

Oct 30, 2025

New mental health and conservatorship laws come at a cost to Sonoma County

SB43 goes into effect January 1st, and Sonoma County health staff estimate 50 new individuals will enter conservatorships as a result.

Noah Abrams

Oct 30, 2025

Sonoma County sheriff talks about what DHS told him and other county leaders about planned ICE activity

ICE has "been given a target by the administration or their bosses or whoever, and they will go where they are more likely to hit their numbers. Sonoma County is not that place."

Shandra Back

Oct 29, 2025

Animal rights activist found guilty in Sonoma County court

Zoe Rosenberg, 23, faces up five years in prison for her role in taking chickens from a Petaluma Poultry truck in 2023.

Noah Abrams

Oct 29, 2025

Santa Rosa Community Health announces new pediatric clinic

Santa Rosa Community Health's new pediatric clinic, their second, will take over Providence's urgent care clinic on Corporate Center Pkwy.

Noah Abrams

Oct 28, 2025

Sonoma County Sanctuary Coalition calls for greater protections against ICE actions

Community organizers say Sonoma County could do more to protect migrant residents from the threat of immigration raids.

Noah Abrams

Oct 28, 2025

New DHS field director shares immigration enforcement plans with Sonoma County sheriff

Sonoma County Sheriff Eddie Engram tells KRCB News he was told the county would be spared of large--scale immigration actions, for now, while the federal Dept. of Homeland Security focuses on more heavily populated areas.

Shandra Back

Oct 28, 2025

Sonoma County makes COLAs for pensioners a top priority in 2026 legislative platform

Here in Sonoma County, county government retirees haven't seen a COLA for several years.

Greta Mart

Oct 27, 2025

2 arrested in homicide of 60-year-old man found shot outside Santa Rosa home

Both suspects were allegedly former employees at an adult nightclub in San Francisco managed by the murdered man.

Bay City News

Oct 24, 2025

Sonoma County community organizers repeat calls for greater protection for migrant community

Community, faith, and labor leaders are calling for Sonoma County to adopt a non-cooperation rule with federal immigration authorities.

Noah Abrams

Oct 24, 2025

Local brewer namechecked on Jeopardy! game show

Vinnie Cilurzo, co-owner of Russian River Brewing Company, said he was surprised by a flurry of texts from friends and family during the Oct. 23, 2025 broadcast.

Michelle Marques

Oct 24, 2025

Providence announces closing of pediatric care ward at Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital

The closure is expected in the first quarter of 2026.

Noah Abrams

Oct 23, 2025

Tens of thousands Sonoma County residents may not receive November CalFresh benefits

There are about 47,000 people in Sonoma County enrolled in CalFresh, the state’s food assistance program.

Shandra Back

Oct 22, 2025

Sebastopol moves forward with tenant protections with protection for Woodmark Apartments in mind

Some Woodmark Apartment residents are hoping "just cause" protections will prevent potential evictions in spite of farm work requirements.

Noah Abrams

Oct 22, 2025

Newsom to deploy CA National Guard after millions at risk of delayed food assistance in shutdown

The governor unveiled the move Wednesday, days after the California Department of Social Services began notifying counties to prepare for the possibility that federally-funded food benefits, known as CalFresh in California, could be disrupted

Lynn La/CalMatters

Oct 21, 2025

Petaluma city council takes issue with recall effort

Many acknowledge a citizens' right to initiate the recall process, but her fellow councilmembers say they're unaware of any misconduct warranting recall of councilmember Janice Cader-Thompson.

Noah Abrams

Oct 21, 2025

Assembly member Chris Rogers says California's Prop 50 will counter political gamesmanship

Rogers is a co-author of the ballot measure before voters now in the Nov. 4 special election.

Michelle Marques

Oct 21, 2025

Don't pass the Buck: Institute studying science of aging offers free guided tours

Plans for the Buck were created by noted architect I.M. Pei, who designed such famed buildings as the Louvre Pyramid in Paris.

Larry Sokoloff/Bay City News

Oct 20, 2025

Petaluma high school bond measure on the ballot this fall

Petaluma's Measure I would add some $3 million annually for Petaluma's high schools if approved by two-thirds of voters.

Noah Abrams

Oct 20, 2025

New study forecasts economic impacts of mass deportations in the North Bay

A new study quantifies the economic contributions of undocumented immigrants in California and models potential impacts of mass deportations in the North Bay.

Shandra Back

Oct 19, 2025

Thousands of protesters gather for No Kings rally in Santa Rosa

The rally featured protesters marching from the Junior College and Juilliard Park and converged on Doyle Park.

Michelle Marques

Oct 16, 2025

Inclusive cycling event kicks off weeklong coastal California ride in Santa Rosa

The Challenged Athletes Foundation increases visibility of disabled athletes while raising money to cover the high cost of adaptive sports equipment.

Michelle Marques

Oct 16, 2025

Esmeralda founder makes case for new walkable development in eastern Cloverdale

The project promises over 500 new units, a mix of detached homes and attached flats, as well as a new 158-acre public river park.

Noah Abrams

Oct 16, 2025

Department of Homeland Security visits Sonoma County Sheriff's Office

The Sonoma County Sheriff's Office said the Department of Homeland Security requested a 'meet-and-greet' with the new DHS supervisor who oversees a region spanning from Santa Clara to the Oregon border.

Shandra Back

Oct 15, 2025

A local startup sold a plastic recycling dream; neighbors call it just another incinerator

The plan sounded like a magic bullet from the future to solve one of the world’s most vexing environmental waste problems.

Alejandra Reyes-Velarde/CalMatters

Oct 14, 2025

County-run Bodega Bay marina funds consolidated

The Bodega Bay fishing fleet---which used to be more than a thousand strong---now sits at 78 boats.

Noah Abrams and Greta Mart

Oct 11, 2025

Senior peer counseling programs help older adults connect

Volunteers, like 73-year-old Rita Wengler of Cotati, often help clients who don't know where to get started.

Larry Sokoloff/Bay City News

Oct 10, 2025

Former Press Democrat reporter detained while covering Gaza aid flotilla

Emily Wilder worked at the newspaper from 2021-22, and was reporting on the Gaza Freedom Flotilla for Jewish Currents when detained.

Noah Abrams

Oct 09, 2025

Woodmark residents in Sebastopol face eviction threat; deed says apartments for farmworkers

The project got off the ground with a $1 million dollar Section 514 loan from the US Department of Agriculture,

Noah Abrams

Oct 09, 2025

Rebuilding and delays continue on 8th anniversary of the Tubbs Fire

According to the City of Santa Rosa’s Resilient City Recovery Reporting dashboard, just over 2,500 structures have been rebuilt since the October 2017 wildfires.

Michelle Marques

Oct 08, 2025

Deadline extended for residential earthquake retrofits grants

Grant applications are being accepted through Oct. 17 at earthquakebracebolt.com.

Sarah Stierch/Bay City News

Oct 07, 2025

Federal grant cancellations threaten Sonoma State teachers residency program

The program prepares teachers to serve in high-need public schools across Sonoma, Napa, Mendocino and Solano Counties.

Ruth Dusseault/Bay City News

Oct 06, 2025

Poets and printers gather to share art in Graton

The North Bay Letterpress Arts and ReVillage Green Valley recently hosted a new festival focused on printing and poetry.

Michelle Marques

Oct 06, 2025

A week without driving? Sonoma County leaders reflect on nationwide transportation campaign

15 local elected and education officials participated in this year's 'Week Without Driving' campaign.

Noah Abrams

Oct 06, 2025

Sonoma County declines official sanctuary status; instead creates supervisorial committee focused on immigrant community

Sonoma County staff say the county’s urgency ordinance about police masking aligns with another bill recently signed by Governor Newsom, which imposes similar police unmasking requirements statewide starting in 2026..

Shandra Back

Oct 02, 2025

Recycling startup Resynergi announces company leaving Rohnert Park

This summer, the Bay Area Air District sent out a notice to parents or guardians of students at Credo High School, located fewer than 1,000 feet from the 'proposed new source of air pollution.'

Shandra Back

Oct 02, 2025

Local nonprofit clinics struggle as federal shutdown pauses telehealth payments

Medicare and Medi-Cal, which pay for healthcare for low-income people, are still up and running, but telehealth coverage is on pause.

Shandra Back

Oct 02, 2025

Sonoma County superintendent warns of potential state takeover of Santa Rosa schools

Amie Carter, the county's superintendent of schools, says the district is in dire financial waters, and will need to make more budget cuts.

Noah Abrams

Oct 01, 2025

A unique library in Monte Rio offers borrowers to pursue their musical dreams

Borrowing from the library requires providing information from your driver’s license. There are no fees involved, and the borrowing period can last weeks.

Lauren Spates

Oct 01, 2025

IOLERO investigators actions called into question by Deputy Sheriff's Association

An attorney for the Sonoma County Deputy Sheriff's Association has accused IOLERO investigators of harassment and retaliation.

Noah Abrams

Sep 30, 2025

What a government shutdown will mean for Californians

About 150,000 federal employees work in California, not counting the military service members who also will go without pay during a shutdown.

Rachel Becker, Kristen Hwang, Alejandro Lazo, Cayla Mihalovich & Jeanne Kuang/CalMatters

Sep 29, 2025

Novato Narrows carpool lanes officially opens in north and south directions

Caltrans has received a large volume of criticism for expanding HOV hours in the area.

Michelle Marques

Sep 29, 2025

Dispute deepens over Sheriff's Office law enforcement oversight procedures

Three Sonoma County Sheriff's officers accused IOLERO investigators of harassment in an investigation of a 2022 officer involved shooting.

Noah Abrams

Sep 28, 2025

Hours-long public comment airs widespread opposition to latest plan for Sonoma Developmental Center

Sonoma County is preparing a new environmental impact report for the project developers want to build on the nearly 1000-acre property.

Greta Mart

Sep 26, 2025

Los Cien's State of Latino Community address highlights hope and community solidarity

Over 600 people attend the all-day event organized by Los Cien, Sonoma County's largest Latino leadership organization

Shandra Back

Sep 25, 2025

Guerneville's Wildwood Retreat looks for last hour reprieve as sale looms

The 210-acre, longstanding LGBT retreat center has been dormant after an unsuccessful capital campaign to help bring the property up to code.

Noah Abrams

Sep 25, 2025

Falcons help local winemakers protect their crop at harvest time

“The birds sit on top of those wires, and as you can imagine, they come down and snack on grapes all day," says Bouchaine Vineyards' head winemaker.

Tina Caputo

Sep 25, 2025

Windsor unites with neighboring sanitation district to achieve 100% recycling of treated wastewater

Because storage is now jointly managed, Windsor avoids having to discharge wastewater into Mark West Creek and the Russian River Basin.

Mark Prell

Sep 24, 2025

New study on Latino Californians reveals health care obstacles

Although Latinos represent 40% of California's population, the proportion of Latino health care providers is disproportionately low.

Ruth Dusseault/Bay City News

Sep 24, 2025

Rohnert Park team advances to Cal Ripken World Series

The baseball team is heading to Branson, Missouri in August 2026 to compete as a 12U team.

Michelle Marques

Sep 23, 2025

Latino voter survey reflects impact of broken promises

Although 54% of Latino voters expressed general support for redistricting, awareness of Prop 50 itself remains low, with 29% saying they have heard little about the Texas redistricting.

Ruth Dusseault/Bay City News

Sep 23, 2025

Activists aim to draw attention to weapon maker's local ties with Healdsburg demonstration

Sonoma County's Jewish Voice for Peace chapter held a symbolic Jewish New Year ritual, targeted at General Dynamics' local presence.

Noah Abrams

Sep 22, 2025

Lowes settles consumer protection case, Sonoma County's weights and measures dept. key in investigation

The judgment also requires the retailer to pay just under $90,000 to cover investigation costs.

Mark Prell

Sep 19, 2025

Santa Rosa vigil responds to SCOTUS ruling on immigration enforcement

The vigil was led by the Graton Day Labor Center, an organization that connects day laborers and domestic workers with employment opportunities.

Shandra Back

Sep 18, 2025

Marin, Sonoma....and Modoc? Newsom's redistricting maps would combine very different perspectives

"There are plenty of win-win solutions," Jared Huffman said of conflict between ranchers and environmentalists. "I'm not an absolutist. I'm a problem solver."

Jeanne Kuang/CalMatters

Sep 18, 2025

Petaluma's B'nai Israel Jewish Center celebrates 100 year anniversary

The unique Jewish Center was opened in August 1925, a joint effort of socialist chicken farmers and observant Jews in Petaluma.

Noah Abrams

Sep 17, 2025

Santa Rosa celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with El Grito Fest

Thousands flocked to downtown Santa Rosa to ring in Hispanic Heritage Month and celebrate the independence days of Mexico and other Latin American countries.

Shandra Back

Sep 15, 2025

Pedestrian bridge to rise above Highway 101 in Santa Rosa

A long-envisioned pedestrian link across Highway 101 may finally break ground soon in Santa Rosa.

Mark Prell

Sep 15, 2025

Sonoma County’s new ‘Open Doors’ initiative helps residents access services

On the Open Doors website, Sonoma County residents can connect with more than 600 service providers in categories including food assistance, mental health and substance use.

Shandra Back

Sep 11, 2025

Layers of history on display at Sonoma Coast's Fort Ross

Today, it’s a state historic park co-managed by the Fort Ross Conservancy and California State Parks.

Shandra Back

Sep 11, 2025

Santa Rosa Open Studios returns for second year with more than 50 artists

The event is presented by the Santa Rosa Urban Arts Partnership and adds another way for artists to exhibit to the public.

Michelle Marques

Sep 11, 2025

Sonoma County's 2024 Crop Report shows gains in organic milk, challenges for wine and poultry

The value of wine grapes harvested saw an overall decline of about 12% compared to 2023, due partially because "significant tonnage was left on the vines due to decreased demand," according to the county's agricultural commissioner.

Thomas Hughes/Bay City News

Sep 11, 2025

Newsom's bid to fast-track delta tunnel stalls again

"No amount of compensation for Delta communities would make up for the project's lasting harm," said one state lawmaker from Suisun City .

Rachel Becker/CalMatters

Sep 10, 2025

Southwest Airlines coming to Santa Rosa's regional airport

Charles M. Schulz – Sonoma County Airport manager Jon Stout says Southwest service will start next April.

Greta Mart

Sep 09, 2025

Murder charges filed in fatal DUI crash that killed six

The coroner's office said it was having difficulty finding the next of kin for the decedents, who all appear to have been farm workers.

Katy St. Clair Bay City News

Sep 08, 2025

Californians asked to track monarch butterfly sightings to help save declining population

The 28th annual Western Monarch Count results found 9,119 monarchs over-wintered in the state, down from millions in the decades past.

Sarah Stierch/Bay City News

Sep 05, 2025

Climate change forcing Napa vintners to make hard choices

Some Carneros growers have begun planting varieties more suited for warmer climates, such as merlot.

Glen Martin/Bay City News

Sep 05, 2025

Santa Rosa's Lost Church finds new location

Venue operators say they'll keep the original intimate and warm vibe; "the feeling like you're gathering with an actual group of people, not just a bunch of ticket buyers."

Michelle Marques

Sep 04, 2025

As harvest season nears, fears over federal immigration raids grow

North Bay vintners and growers are hosting workshops for employees, putting up 'No Trespassing" signs and keeping their ranch gates locked during business hours..

Tina Caputo

Sep 03, 2025

Fires caused by lightning break out throughout California

These fires have mostly broken out in California’s Central Valley.

Manola Secaira/CapRadio

Sep 03, 2025

Governor Newsom hasn’t released any of his 2025 calendars as required by state law

Governor Gavin Newsom has been everywhere this year. But exactly where remains a mystery.

Alexei Koseff/CapRadio

Sep 02, 2025

Kaiser nurses prepare for 24-hour strike; allege 'unsafe staffing and burnout'

"The strike notice includes caregivers at Northern California Kaiser Permanente facilities from Sacramento to Fresno, and across the Bay Area," says the nurses union.

Anna Zou

Aug 31, 2025

Santa Rosa, Jenner, Ukiah join nationwide Labor Day demonstrations against Trump Administration

Over 140 organizations from across the country formed a coalition called May Day Strong to promote the events.

Sarah Stierch/Bay City News

Aug 31, 2025

Fire involving multiple trailers shuts down Northbound 101 in Santa Rosa Sunday afternoon

A vegetation fire impacted multiple trailers off Highway 101 at Baker Avenue.

Katy St. Clair/Bay City News

Aug 28, 2025

Rohnert Park city council hears opposition to expanded plastic recycling plant

Public comment on the current application will be accepted by the Bay Area Air District through October 3

Anna Zou

Aug 27, 2025

KRCB Wine Beat: Wineries adapt to a rise in nondrinking visitors 

In previous years, said one industry insider, maybe 3 or 4% of tasting room visitors didn’t drink. Now, it’s closer to 20%.

Tina Caputo

Aug 27, 2025

Pickett Fire could cost an estimated $65 million in damage to vintners and other ag

A survey reported damage to about 1,500 acres, or over 3 percent of Napa Valley's produce acreage.

Katy St. Clair/Bay City News

Aug 26, 2025

California Senate committee to consider streamlining geothermal energy projects

"California has a permitting process for geothermal that is so risky that developers are saying we're going to go everywhere else first and California last."

Aly Brown/Bay City News

Aug 26, 2025

North Bay homeowners, landlords eligible for up to $10K in earthquake retrofit aid

Grants of $3,000 will be awarded to offset the cost of seismic retrofitting, specifically the cost of bolting houses to their foundations and bracing crawl space walls.

Sarah Stierch/Bay City News

Aug 25, 2025

UC Berkeley poll finds more California voters support Prop 50 than oppose

A proposal for a new seat in the heart of Sonoma County that could be a key puzzle piece for Democrats as they hope to win the House.

Laura Fitzgerald/CapRadio

Aug 25, 2025

Firefight continues for Pickett fire burning near Calistoga

Evacuation orders are still in effect for nine sparsely-populated Napa County zones. The Pickett Fire has burned over 13 square miles since Thursday afternoon.

Greta Mart, Noah Abrams, Michelle Marques & Bay City News

Aug 24, 2025

Facing financial strain, Ukiah senior center cuts back on programs and services

With membership open to any age, Ukiah's senior center has about 700 members and serves over 4,000 needs per month.

Karen Rifkin/Bay City News

Aug 23, 2025

Fast moving vegetation fire sparks Sunday afternoon in Lake County

Evacuation orders have been lifted as of Sunday night.

Greta Mart

Aug 21, 2025

California redistricting plan may swing on this Sonoma County shakeup

Santa Rosa Democrat Chris Rogers said the map unites communities with different politics but common issues.

Guy Marzorati & Izzy Bloom/KQED

Aug 21, 2025

Heat wave prompts new wildfire preparedness push, including online resource hub

Sonoma County has launched a website for wildfire risk reduction strategies, including grants and other funding opportunities.

Michelle Marques and Greta Mart

Aug 21, 2025

Dungeness crab pop-up gear testing profitable for fishermen and safe for whales

Under an experimental fishing permit, a small group of crabbers were allowed to deploy their pop-up crab gear despite the presence of whales, which would normally close the fishery.

Mark Prell

Aug 20, 2025

Gourd-geous racers steal the show at Sonoma's Tuesday night market

One of the winners this year was a zucchini fashioned into a sushi roll.

Anna Zou

Aug 19, 2025

Dale Webster, world record holder for longest surfing streak, dies at 76

Webster, a Sonoma County resident since the 1970's, surfed at least three waves everyday for over 14,600 days in row from 1975 to 2015.

Noah Abrams

Aug 18, 2025

Sonoma County grappling with tragic spate of fatal domestic violence incidents

There have been six separate domestic violence-related murder-suicides in Sonoma County over the past year, claiming 14 lives.

Greta Mart

Aug 15, 2025

Community pushback extends comment period on proposed Rohnert Park plastic recycling plant

The industrial facility would use microwaves to break down plastic into oil used to make new plastic.

Anna Zou

Aug 14, 2025

Alleged armed suspect shot, killed by police after overnight standoff in Santa Rosa

The Sonoma County Sheriff's Office will investigate the officer-involved shooting.

Bay City News

Aug 13, 2025

Great excitements pairs with piecemeal progress in latest Great Redwood Trail update

The Great Redwood Trail Agency is in the master planning process for the 307 mile rail to trail path connecting Humboldt Bay with the SF Bay.

Noah Abrams

Aug 12, 2025

State legislators discuss Sonoma State recovery plan at latest forum

State Senator Mike McGuire, an SSU grad from Healdsburg, announced an additional $45 million infusion of state funds for the school.

Noah Abrams

Aug 11, 2025

Six local small producers join forces under new wine collective

Organizers say the business model allows small wineries to do something they could never afford to do on their own—hire a national sales team to sell their wines.

Tina Caputo

Aug 11, 2025

2 Sonoma County Sheriff's Office employees dead in apparent murder-suicide

Police tried to get the off-duty deputy to peacefully surrender, and a SWAT team negotiated with him until about 2 a.m. Monday, when he shot himself and died.

Bay City News

Aug 11, 2025

Sonoma Valley launches rapid rehousing program

Landlords who rent through the program are offered up to $1,000 in incentives.

Michelle Marques

Aug 08, 2025

Developer says Cotati Hotel project expected to restart construction in coming weeks

The Cotati Hotel, as well as projects in Sebastopol and Windsor, have struggled to secure stable financing post-COVID.

Noah Abrams

Aug 08, 2025

State leaders ramp up partnership with AI companies for use in schools

Governor Gavin Newsom has been spearheading an effort to partner AI companies to expand AI training in K-12 schools and colleges.

Gerardo Zavala/CapRadio

Aug 08, 2025

Some California winemakers don’t want tariffs on their European competitors

'The chaos that is present now is an existential threat to the world that we live in."

Levi Sumagaysay/CalMatters

Aug 08, 2025

With a new home for Eames Institute comes an expanded curatorial mission

The abandoned structure aside 101 between Novato and Petaluma will be transformed by the same architects who designed the de Young Museum in Golden Gate Park.

Ruth Dusseault/Bay City News

Aug 07, 2025

Sonoma County AmeriCorps fellows reflect on chaos of DOGE cuts to service programs

Over 5,600 AmeriCorps public service workers in California were affected by the cuts rolled out by the Trump administration in late April.

Noah Abrams

Aug 07, 2025

Neighbor complaints spurs Sebastopol Porchfest move to public park

High Street residents expressed concerns about the safety and permitting of 2024's event.

Anna Zou

Aug 07, 2025

California Supreme Court hands victory to rooftop solar panel owners

At issue is a 2022 decision by state regulators to reduce by about 75% payments to solar panel owners for excess power.

Malena Carollo/CalMatters

Aug 07, 2025

Sonoma County Radio Amateurs keep information flowing in an emergency

Most Ham operators use handheld radios and many have more elaborate radio shacks at their homes. But the real magic of amateur radio rests in its resiliency.

Mark Prell

Aug 05, 2025

Novato city workers strike over sales tax funds

"The city has failed to be transparent about where they are going to be spending the Measure M money," says an employee union representative.

Ruth Dusseault/Bay City News

Aug 05, 2025

Sebastopol police sued for civil rights violations over violent 2024 arrest

Jeffrey Callaghan, a former Sonoma County resident, says police arrested him on suspicion of a DUI, which was actual a diabetic episode.

Noah Abrams

Aug 04, 2025

Santa Rosa Water begins major sewer rehabilitation project

Driving on Llano Road, you may see some black pipes sitting above ground; those will be used to transport the sewer that goes in the trunk line typically to the Laguna Treatment Plant.

Mark Prell

Jul 31, 2025

Reporter's Notebook: Santa Rosa Junior College eyes possible bond measure

The junior college district stretches into Mendocino, Napa, and even Marin County, but the bulk of taxpayers are in Sonoma County.

Greta Mart, Noah Abrams and Paulina Pineda/Press Democrat

Jul 31, 2025

Hunger strike planned outside Sonoma County admin center

The Sonoma County Sanctuary Coalition says it wants the county sheriff's office to stop sharing info with ICE.

Noah Abrams

Jul 31, 2025

Sonoma County CERT volunteers train for local emergencies and disasters

Established in 2019, Northern Sonoma County CERT has since trained more than 180 volunteers in emergency preparedness and disaster response

Mark Prell

Jul 30, 2025

Sonoma County winegrowers and vintners explore a 'Wine Improvement District'

Not everyone supports the idea, which would apply an assessment on direct-to-consumer sales.

Michelle Marques

Jul 30, 2025

Already struggling, area food banks brace for higher demand brought on by SNAP cuts

Congress approved a $186 billion cut to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program in early July.

Bryan Wen/UC Berkeley Journalism & Zhe Wu/San Francisco Public Press

Jul 30, 2025

Tsunami surge expected to hit Sonoma coast after midnight

The National Weather Service says tsunamis are a series of waves dangerous many hours after initial arrival time. And that the first wave may not be the largest.

Associated Press, Bay City News and Greta Mart

Jul 29, 2025

Local Resource Conservation Districts grapple with changes to federal grant funds

More than 50 farmers and ranchers in Sonoma and Marin counties are putting conservation practices into place.

Noah Abrams

Jul 28, 2025

Federal cuts threaten rural health care for half of Mendocino County residents

The legislation's cuts could lead to permanent closures of hospitals and clinics in rural parts of California and throughout the country.

Sydney Fishman/Bay City News

Jul 27, 2025

Body found Sunday in Russian River believed to be missing man

Just after 5:30 PM Saturday, someone reported a man using a rope swing to jump into the water but then did not resurface.

Katy St. Clair/Bay City News

Jul 25, 2025

Trump administration cuts to NOAA affects global buoy network, accurate weather forecasting

HIs young crew is "relying on my judgment to get them income and bring them back home safely," says one Bodega Bay commercial fisherman who relies on NOAA forecasting capabilities.

Lauren Spates

Jul 23, 2025

Sonoma County's cooperation with ICE focus of packed annual public forum

Sonoma County's sheriff says in 2024, ICE made 484 requests in the county, 64 for which the sheriff’s office provided info.

Anna Zou

Jul 23, 2025

Empty map kiosks and budget tightening at Trione-Annadel State Park

Brochure maps are running out and some staffing may be limited at Sonoma County's state parks.

Michelle Marques

Jul 23, 2025

You can always make a summer splash at Spring Lake

The popular regional park in Santa Rosa offers a variety of amenities - like the swim lagoon - and activities beyond hikes and bikes.

Noah Abrams

Jul 22, 2025

North Bay's Rapid Response Network distributes info cards to resist ICE threats

The North Bay Rapid Response Network, a 24-hour-a-day volunteer-run hotline housed within the North Bay Organizing Project, monitors ICE activity in Sonoma, Napa and Solano counties.

Tash Kimmell

Jul 22, 2025

Fish counting a key part of the job for Sonoma Water biologists

“I think this is our fourth best year for wild coho at Dry Creek, and it's our best year for coho at Willow Creek this year."

Lauren Spates

Jul 21, 2025

One philanthropic dollar per carbon ton: new study quantifies emissions reductions at local level

"Anything local can make a difference globally. This report is an attempt to say it's actually the only difference you can make."

Ruth Dusseault/Bay City News

Jul 17, 2025

A flight too far? Plaintiff in case against Permit Sonoma details intrusive drone surveillance

The ACLU of Northern California alleges Permit Sonoma's code enforcement division violated the California constitution with drone searches.

Noah Abrams

Jul 17, 2025

CA scores high in new report on the fight against plastic pollution

Starting next year, the thicker plastic bags now sold at checkout stands will also go away; shoppers will have to go back to using paper bags or bring reusable cloth bags.

Suzanne Potter/CA News Service

Jul 16, 2025

Advocates handcuff themselves to Joe Rodota Trail trees in bid to stop cutting

Sonoma County Regional Parks admin say the tree-cutting plan is part of ongoing vegetation management of non-native trees.

Anna Zou

Jul 15, 2025

Sonoma sheriff identifies victims in 2 separate weekend drownings

A 17-year-old boy from Oakland and a 31-year-old man from San Francisco died Sunday in Sonoma County waters; neither victim was wearing a lifejacket.

Bay City News

Jul 14, 2025

Santa Rosa releases FEMA preliminary flood map

Property owners in Special Flood Hazard Areas may need to get more insurance coverage and take mitigation to reduce risks.

Michelle Marques

Jul 11, 2025

One year on from Grants Pass decision, Sonoma County tries to balance homeless efforts

Citations to homeless individuals have soared in some California jurisdictions, but Sonoma County has kept a focus on adding beds.

Anna Zou

Jul 10, 2025

Nature's recovery after wildfire begins with the birds

Wildfires can leave utter devastation in their wake. But, when it comes to nature's recovery, it's often the birds that make the first notable impact.

Mark Prell

Jul 10, 2025

How Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill might impact local hospitals, nursing facilities

The package of tax cuts and cuts to Medicaid threaten rural and low-income community hospitals around the Greater Bay Area region.

Ruth Dusseault - Bay City News

Jul 09, 2025

Rules limiting runoff and erosion from vineyards coming to North Coast

Passed recently by the North Coast Water Board, the rules will cover 65,000 acres of commercial vineyard in the region.

Noah Abrams

Jul 08, 2025

Young sea lion rescued after weeks long stay in the Petaluma River

The young female sea lion likely ventured up the Petaluma River in search of food, but is now being treated at the Marine Mammal Center.

Noah Abrams

Jul 08, 2025

Multi-faith group takes on day of fasting in support of migrants

The Interfaith Public Fast sought to bring attention to the plight of migrants and the LGBTQ community targeted by federal actions.

Anna Zou

Jul 07, 2025

Press Democrat newsroom downsized

Four employees were recently laid off, and a fifth took a buy out offer from the paper's new ownership.

Noah Abrams

Jul 04, 2025

What does it take to put on a professional fireworks display?

Drew Dominguez shares his experiences working on huge fireworks shows, including the inherent dangers in a hand-lit show.

Michelle Marques

Jul 03, 2025

Providence hospice workers strike against private equity company joint venture

The two day strike in Santa Rosa and Petaluma involved about 120 total workers concerned about increased case loads and cuts to programs.

Michelle Marques

Jul 03, 2025

Sonoma County photojournalist accidently on scene to capture fireworks warehouse explosion in Yolo County

Press Democrat photographer Kent Porter wasn't supposed to be near the Esparto fireworks warehouse just minutes before it exploded.

Michelle Marques and Noah Abrams

Jul 03, 2025

State Library Parks Pass saved from California budget chopping block

The popular program, which allows library users in California to rent State Park passes, had funding restored in the final state budget.

Sarah Stierch/Bay City News

Jul 02, 2025

Sonoma County's emergency evacuation preparedness called into question in recent report

Sonoma County's Civil Grand Jury, a volunteer investigative body, says narrow roads are a barrier to safe and orderly emergency evacuations.

Anna Zou

Jul 01, 2025

Clipper Card outages reported on first day of transit fare increases

The public transit fare system warned riders to be prepared to pay via alternate means if requested, until Clipper Card service can be restored.

Andres Jimenez Larios/Bay City News

Jun 30, 2025

Santa Rosa teenagers organize fundraiser run for fentanyl awareness

Santa Rosa High School's tight knit Civil Unity Club put together the Saturday morning run to raise awareness after multiple peers overdosed.

Noah Abrams

Jun 30, 2025

National Weather Service keeps an eye on conditions, even from your own backyard

The National Weather Service relies on a vast network of weather reporting stations across the country to keep track of the weather.

Mark Prell

Jun 27, 2025

Local Iranian-Americans react to direct conflict between U.S. & Iran

Questions of war, peace, and who really suffers in conflicts loom large as ceasefire between U.S., Israel, and Iran holds.

Anna Zou/Noah Abrams

Jun 27, 2025

Monte Rio Redwoods Regional Park & Open Space adds 1,500 acres

Save the Redwoods League transferred the former timber land to Sonoma County Regional Park for the 1,517 acre expansion.

Thomas Hughes/Bay City News

Jun 26, 2025

County of Sonoma and Petaluma join lawsuits against Trump administration

Both jurisdictions are joining court cases over federal funding directives trying to compel local governments to assist immigration enforcement.

Noah Abrams

Jun 26, 2025

Preliminary results show drop in Sonoma County homeless population

While the overall number homeless individuals in the county dropped in comparison to the 2024 count, the number of homeless families grew.

Samantha Kennedy/Bay City News/Noah Abrams

Jun 24, 2025

Permit Sonoma unveils plan to balance local environment and development needs

Called Conservation Sonoma, the effort hopes to streamline permitting without sacrificing environmental protections for sensitive areas.

Anna Zou

Jun 24, 2025

Sonoma Valley eyes conservation and recycling to protect limited water supplies

The Sonoma Valley Groundwater Sustainability Agency has identified two new priority areas for water conservation within the valley.

Mark Prell

Jun 23, 2025

Packed town hall meeting has Ukiah residents voicing concerns about city annexation

City staffers say the annexation is not about development, rather compensating for an area developed to the city's maximum.

Savana Robinson/Bay City News

Jun 19, 2025

Town hall draws local crowds worried about future of Social Security

Around 107,000 Sonoma County residents receive Social Security, according to Congressman Mike Thompson's office.

Anna Zou

Jun 18, 2025

Elected leaders, law enforcement, residents flag issues at Sebastopol's Elderberry Commons

Sebastopol police have made dozens of visits to the permanent supportive housing complex since it reopened to residents in March.

Noah Abrams

Jun 18, 2025

Trump's plan to lower egg prices, explained

So far, the government has attempted to fight bird flu by paying chicken farmers to kill their entire flocks if they detect one case of the virus.

Seth Millstein/Sentient

Jun 17, 2025

Petaluma police report Saturday incident between pickup truck and protestors

PPD pointed out that even with a green light, drivers are legally obligated to yield to any pedestrians in a crosswalk.

Katy St. Clair/Bay City News

Jun 17, 2025

Marin County arborists, property owners asked to be on lookout for oak tree pest

Native to Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa, the Mediterranean oak borer was identified in a valley oak in Novato on May 23.

Bay City News

Jun 16, 2025

State bill expands eligibility for help with PG&E electric bills

150,000 households may now qualify for PG&E's electric rate assistance program due to state legislation.

Mark Prell

Jun 16, 2025

Tens of thousands of people turn out across the North Bay for 'No Kings' demonstrations

"Everyone is being targeted by this administration, even people who think that they're safe," said one Santa Rosa protestor.

Greta Mart, Michelle Marques & Bay City News

Jun 13, 2025

California Legislature OKs proposal to freeze health care access for some immigrants

California provides free health care to more than a third of its 39 million people.

Tran Nguyen/Associated Press

Jun 12, 2025

Vineyard workers detail experience in alleged work place retaliation case

California's Agricultural Labor Relations Board recently brokered a settlement with a Geyserville vineyard management firm and 7 workers.

Noah Abrams

Jun 11, 2025

Santa Rosa joins legal suit against retaliation for "sanctuary" policies

"It's putting as much as $47 million of federal funding at risk," according to Santa Rosa's mayor.

Greta Mart

Jun 11, 2025

State budget cuts threaten popular state parks library pass program

In a recent survey, 90% of participants planned to visit parks more than seven times a year thanks to the pass.

Sarah Stierch/Bay City News/Noah Abrams

Jun 10, 2025

California car buyers face a 600% higher fee under a bill the CA Senate just passed

The bill allows car dealers to charge buyers up to $500 extra on each vehicle purchase, a blatant departure from promises both parties made this year to lower costs for Californians.

Ryan Sabalow & Jeanne Kuang/CalMatters

Jun 09, 2025

Sonoma County officials urge wildfire preparations ahead of anticipated elevated summer fire season

Local fire officials spoke to the County Board of Supervisors for the Annual Wildfire Preparedness Update on June 3rd.

Michelle Marques

Jun 06, 2025

Arborists from across western states flock to Sacramento for annual competition

40 professional arborists will compete in five skill events for a chance to compete at the international championships this fall.

Noah Abrams

Jun 06, 2025

United Soccer League and Santa Rosa hold first community forum

Santa Rosa is exploring bringing professional men's and women's soccer to Sonoma County's largest city.

Noah Abrams

Jun 05, 2025

New wine industry reporter highlights silver linings amid challenges

Though wineries say they don’t expect to increase their sales in 2025, they do report feeling optimistic about the potential for growth over the next five years.

Tina Caputo

Jun 05, 2025

Calistoga gets clean-power backup system

The batteries and fuel cells are expected to keep the lights on for about 48 hours or longer.

Jennifer McDermott/Associated Press

Jun 05, 2025

Two Ukiah students earn first-ever Seal of Biliteracy in Northern Pomo language

The recognition comes after 4 years of study in the dormant Indigenous language.

Michelle Marques

Jun 05, 2025

Ukiah's annexation workshop leaves many residents frustrated

Once Ukiah city staff announced there wouldn't be a Q&A section of the meeting, about half of the attendees left the conference center.

Sydney Fishman/Bay City News

Jun 04, 2025

Health care advocates call on North Bay's state senator to avoid cuts to Medi-Cal

Governor Gavin Newsom has proposed cuts to service and caps on Medi-Cal enrollment ahead of the June 15th budget deadline.

Noah Abrams

Jun 04, 2025

Sonoma County officials warn of dangerous wildfire season ahead

Residents are encouraged to sign up for emergency alerts, clear space around their homes and review evacuation plans.

Bay City News

Jun 04, 2025

Fights over planned Koi Nation casino resort, Pt. Reyes ranching continue

The Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria, the main opponents to the Koi casino project, have hired former US Solicitor General Neal Katyal for the case.

Noah Abrams

Jun 03, 2025

California Senate to consider extension of Habitat Conservation Fund

The Habitat Conservation Fund contributed $650,000 for the purchase of 198 acres of McCormick Ranch in Sonoma County, protecting the land in perpetuity by adding it to the Hood Mountain Regional Park and Open Space Preserve.

Suzanne Potter/CA News Service & Greta Mart

Jun 03, 2025

14-year-old Santa Rosa boy remains in critical condition following Sat collision with car

investigators think the boy may have been on a skateboard.

Bay City News

Jun 02, 2025

Geyserville vineyard management company settles labor dispute with seven workers

Redwood Empire Vineyard Management agreed to pay over $33,000 in back pay to the affected workers.

Noah Abrams

May 31, 2025

Installation begins on Russian River season rubber dam

Sonoma Water says the main purpose of the dam is to help recharge local groundwater supplies.

Mark Prell & Michelle Marques

May 30, 2025

Windsor SMART service starts Saturday

The new station near the Windsor Town Green will be followed in the coming years by new stations in Healdsburg and then Cloverdale.

Bay City News

May 30, 2025

Sonoma County's Jennifer Bice an early pioneer of NorCal artisan food scene

Today, Bice's Redwood Hill Farm spans 20 acres and boasts approximately 100-120 goats, with around 60 actively milked.

Mark Prell & Clark Wolf

May 29, 2025

Sebastopol and Sonoma County's creative agreement for Measure U & I tax collection

A state-mandated 'combined rate' taxing cap of 2% prohibits Sebastopol and Sonoma County from both collecting voter-approved sales taxes.

Noah Abrams

May 28, 2025

5 more dead gray whales found in Bay Area in past week

So far in 2025, 13 gray whales and one minke whale have died in the region; three of the deaths were likely caused by vessel strikes.

Tony Hicks/Bay City News

May 27, 2025

BottleRock Napa Valley draws huge crowds over Memorial Day weekend

Benson Boone, who appeared on both the Culinary Stage and prior to Justin Timberlake, was a big draw for many fans.

Michelle Marques

May 27, 2025

KRCB Reporter's Notebook: 150 staffers face layoffs at Santa Rosa City Schools

KRCB News speaks with the Press Democrat's education reporter about Santa Rosa City School's latest board meeting.

Adriana Gutierrez & Greta Mart

May 24, 2025

Bay Area injunction protecting international students expanded throughout nation

The preliminary injunction preserves the immigration status of approximately 25 international students at Bay Area colleges and universities.

Joe Dworetzky/Bay City News

May 22, 2025

FBI arrests Ken Mattson for alleged million-dollar Ponzi scheme

Embattled Sonoma real estate mogul Kenneth Mattson has been indicted on allegations of wire fraud, money laundering and obstruction of justice.

Katy St. Clair/Bay City News

May 21, 2025

Sonoma County legislator advances bill to help health clinics with drug pricing in California

The new bill seeks protects health clinics and Planned Parenthood's access to a federal discount prescription drug program.

Michelle Marques

May 21, 2025

North Bay Congressional App Challenge winners focus on wildfire impacts

The Congressional App Challenge enters it's tenth year this fall, with over 40,000 students from all 50 states having competed since its start.

Noah Abrams

May 21, 2025

SF Bay fish contaminated with levels of forever chemicals that could harm anglers

The chemicals are likely contaminating ocean fish throughout California, but no statewide studies have been conducted.

Rachel Becker/CalMatters

May 21, 2025

Google's $125 million deal with California for local news is already shrinking

Gov. Gavin Newsom has proposed to slash the state's initial commitment to the journalism fund by two-thirds.

Jeanne Kuang/CalMatters

May 20, 2025

Mendocino food aid groups buckle under pressure of federal funding cuts

The Mendo Food Network has had to cut two pantry coordinator positions due to the sudden drop in funding.

Lin Due (Bay City News)/Noah Abrams

May 19, 2025

Healdsburg renames community center after city's first Latino mayor: Abel De Luna

The celebration featured speakers like workers' rights activist Dolores Huerta, as well as presentation of $500,000 to Corazón Healdsburg.

Michelle Marques and Kathryn Nelson

May 19, 2025

Expanded carpool lane hours coming to 101 in Marin, Sonoma counties

The new uniform set of hours will apply along the entire 52-mile corridor from Windsor to Sausalito.

Mark Prell

May 16, 2025

New round of budget proposals bring some hope for Sonoma State's finances

Governor Gavin Newsom's revised May budget adds back funding to the Cal State system, lowering the projected SSU deficit for 2025-26.

Noah Abrams

May 15, 2025

Two Ft. Bragg nonprofits awarded private foundation grants after Trump cuts funding

The Mendocino County arts orgs received emails stating "the NEA is updating its grantmaking policy priorities to focus funding on projects that reflect the nation's rich artistic heritage and creativity as prioritized by the President."

Sarah Stierch/Bay City News

May 14, 2025

Santa Rosa prepares final touches on Active Transportation Plan

The bike and pedestrian infrastructure planning document is getting a review the same day as Bay Area Bike to Work or Wherever Day.

Noah Abrams

May 13, 2025

New owner of The Press Democrat offer buyouts to newsroom staff

Bay Area News Group, a subsidiary of MediaNews Group, made the offer Tuesday morning to Press Democrat Guild staff members.

Noah Abrams

May 12, 2025

Federal funding cuts could worsen wildfire season

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has experienced staffing cuts and could see further loss of funding, potentially impacting red flag warnings, prescribed burns, and more.

Michelle Marques

May 11, 2025

Court allows cuts to Sonoma State athletic programs, majors to proceed

Friday's ruling lifted a temporary restraining order on the decision to discontinue the programs, allowing the cuts to proceed.

Bay City News

May 08, 2025

Nets, Bees, Action! Bumble bee hunting comes to Sonoma County

The California Bumble Bee Atlas brings together volunteers and experts each year to survey for the some of the state's native pollinators.

Noah Abrams

May 06, 2025

How tariffs on Chinese imports are impacting local businesses

“We've had to raise prices, I think that’s the only way we can really stay in business."

Tina Caputo

May 06, 2025

Santa Rosa Zine Fest celebrates creativity and self expression

Organizers say there were over 80 exhibitors on hand with zines, as well as workshops, screen printing and more at the free event on May 3rd.

Michelle Marques

May 04, 2025

NorCal firefighters prepare for difficult fire season

While Cal Fire officials say the agency and all the local Bay Area fire departments are fully staffed and prepared for the coming fire season, cuts at the federal level affecting the U.S. Forest Service and National Park Service will play a significant role in how fires are fought.

Caio Driver/Bay City News

May 01, 2025

Press Democrat announces surprise sale to MediaNews Group

MediaNews Group, which owns the Marin IJ and San Jose Mercury News, is controlled by controversial investment firm Alden Global Capital.

Noah Abrams

May 01, 2025

Black bear killed in truck collision near Forestville

According to the county's regional parks agency, the bear population seems to be increasing in Sonoma County, so sightings and encounters may become more frequent.

Mark Prell

Apr 29, 2025

Roseland College Prep school slated to close after 2025-26 school year

Plans call for students at the public charter school be relocated to Roseland University Prep and Roseland Accelerated Middle School.

Noah Abrams

Apr 29, 2025

Lisa August steps in as acting superintendent of Santa Rosa City Schools

August, an executive in the district, takes over from the recently departed Daisy Morales, who was dismissed after less than a year.

Noah Abrams

Apr 29, 2025

Bodega Bay isn't what it used to be. How an ailing industry has transformed this fishing village

Lucrative salmon harvests -- sometimes exceeding a million fish in a season -- and a robust population persisted through the mid-2000s, before the fish seemed to cross a tipping point, collapsing almost to extinction in 2009.

Alastair Bland/CalMatters

Apr 28, 2025

Santa Rosa City Schools abruptly parts ways with superintendent

Daisy Morales was on the job for less than a year before the school board of trustees voted 5-1 to oust her on April 23.

Noah Abrams

Apr 25, 2025

Santa Rosa High School's ArtQuest Theatre program wins national honor

The Dramatists Legal Defense Fund Defender Award honors free expression in the dramatic arts. ArtQuest will accept the award April 28.

Michelle Marques

Apr 25, 2025

Immigration advocates sue feds over Trump's registration order

According to federal agencies, the rule applies to immigrants who plan to remain in the U.S. for more than 30 days, with exceptions for certain visa holders and green card recipients.

Sydney Fishman

Apr 25, 2025

Pt. Reyes ranchers reiterate support for settlement amid congressional investigation

House Republicans on the Natural Resources Committee are calling for scrutiny on the deal to end many of the Seashore's ranches & dairies.

Noah Abrams

Apr 23, 2025

Caltrans, CHP investigating haz-mat dumping along Hwy 101 in Mendocino County

The string of incidents began in November with two illegal dumps in Hopland.

Bay City News

Apr 22, 2025

Marin water board explores Russian River pipeline

The idea now is to capture up to roughly 3,800 acre feet of water from the Russian River during big storm events.

Kiley Russell/Bay City News

Apr 21, 2025

Students killed in collision identified as community mourns

Four West Marin girls aged 14-16 died; two other students were in critical condition after the collision.

Bay City News

Apr 21, 2025

Sebastopol Times/KRCB News: city manager's departure; Analy cell phone policy

The city council, in a 3-2 vote, abruptly parted ways with city manager Don Schwartz after just 15 months.

Noah Abrams

Apr 20, 2025

Press Democrat Guild waives contract clearing path for paper's sale to Hearst

Members of the editorial staffer's union will receive a payout as part of the deal to end the contract that was set to expire in August 2026.

Noah Abrams & Greta Mart

Apr 18, 2025

Sonoma County installs three new health to go vending machines

The vending machines offer free items like Narcan, fentanyl test strips, socks, and other items to improve health and safety in the community.

Michelle Marques

Apr 18, 2025

CA sets aside $170 million to thin vegetation, forests to help prevent wildfires

The money comes from a $10 billion bond measure for environmental projects approved by California voters last year.

Alejandro Lazo/CalMatters

Apr 17, 2025

Local faith leaders declare houses of worship sanctuaries, call for Sonoma County to do the same

Multiple Christian congregations, as well as a Sonoma County synagogue, are committing to protect individuals targeted by federal authorities.

Noah Abrams

Apr 15, 2025

Sonoma County House Reps hear input and concern about Social Security threats

Representatives Jared Huffman and Mike Thompson hosted a round table with various elderly and disability advocates in Santa Rosa.

Noah Abrams

Apr 15, 2025

Sonoma County Superior Court judge halts SSU and CSU leaders from eliminating academic programs

Judge Kenneth English issued a temporary restraining order against SSU's Interim President and the CSU Chancellor on Tuesday.

Michelle Marques

Apr 15, 2025

Sonoma State’s plan to cut more than a dozen majors is on pause

Lawyers for the students argued that Sonoma State didn’t follow system procedures for terminating academic programs.

Mikhail Zinshteyn/CalMatters

Apr 15, 2025

Commercial salmon season is shut down — again

California’s commercial fishery has never been closed for three years in a row before.

Alastair Bland/CalMatters

Apr 15, 2025

State Farm moves one step closer to emergency California rate hike

If the judge approves, starting in June the company's customers will see average increases of 17% for homeowners.

Levi Sumagaysay/CalMatters

Apr 14, 2025

A license to kill

The California DMV routinely allows dangerous drivers with horrifying histories to continue to operate on our roadways. Too often they go on to kill. Many keep driving even after they kill. Some go on to kill again.

Robert Lewis/CalMatters

Apr 11, 2025

The North Coast Wine Challenge shines a spotlight on local wines

This year the contest featured some new wine categories that reflect current trends in the market.

Tina Caputo

Apr 10, 2025

New charitable giving group looks to fill funding gaps for West Sonoma County nonprofits

Called the Sebastopol West 100, the focus is on charitable giving in Sebastopol, Graton, Forestville, Occidental, and Freestone.

Noah Abrams

Apr 10, 2025

Avelo Airlines closing Santa Rosa hub, opening base in Arizona to service deportation flights

Avelo plans to close their base at the Charles M. Schulz Airport by May 1st. The budget carrier plans to open a new base in Mesa, Arizona.

Noah Abrams

Apr 10, 2025

Second ICE arrest reported in Sonoma County

Community support group North Bay Rapid Response Network says the arrest occurred at a gas station in Petaluma.

Noah Abrams

Apr 10, 2025

Local restaurants invited to apply for $5K grants

To be eligible, restaurants must be in PG&E's service area, have no more than five locations, and generate less than $3 million in annual revenue per location.

Sarah Stierch/Bay City News

Apr 08, 2025

North Bay nonprofit wins Cal Fire grants for wildfire prevention, work on private land

The grants will be used by the nonprofit's North Bay Forest Improvement Program to plan and implement wildfire risk reduction and forest health projects on private property in Lake, Mendocino, Sonoma and Napa counties.

Sarah Stierch/Bay City News

Apr 07, 2025

Thousands show up in Santa Rosa to protest Trump administration policies

The Saturday crowd was estimated at about 5000 people, and police shut down two city blocks during the demonstration.

Michelle Marques

Apr 07, 2025

Sebastopol Times reporters talk Department of Ed. cuts, city budget, garden box building

Sebastopol is hoping to get state approval for a city tax rate above the 10.25% cap, and get two hotel projects built to bolster the budget.

Noah Abrams

Apr 04, 2025

Healdsburg Hospital staff unionize

Almost 200 medical, technical, and custodial staff at the 43 bed hospital are joining the National Union of Healthcare Workers.

Noah Abrams

Apr 04, 2025

Sonoma County Wildlife Rescue seeks information in death of 4 otters

The animal bodies were found piled together on the side of Old Adobe Road and each had significant head injuries.

Michelle Marques

Apr 03, 2025

Forklift operator crushed to death by pallet of wine in Windsor

Investigators think the man was operating a forklift on a stack of full wine pallets, each of which weighed about 3,000 pounds.

Katy St. Clair/Bay City News

Apr 02, 2025

Sonoma State faculty weigh no-confidence vote in campus, CSU leadership

The symbolic referendum before the Academic Senate argues the leadership's plan to slash the budget might "potentially destroy" SSU.

Noah Abrams

Apr 02, 2025

Yountville aims to entice tourists with town-wide discounted wine and beer tastings pass

The Wine & Beer Passport costs $95 for two people.

Sarah Stierch/Bay City News

Apr 02, 2025

More than 100 rallies planned Saturday in CA to protest Trump policies; one set for Courthouse Square

Locally, a group called Indivisible Sonoma County is planning a rally for Santa Rosa's Courthouse Square from 3 to 5 p.m.

Suzanne Potter/CA News Service

Mar 31, 2025

How will federal cuts affect Russian River forecasts?

NOAA includes the National Weather Service and the California-Nevada River Forecast Center.

Lauren Spates

Mar 28, 2025

Sonoma State joins SFSU, CSU East Bay to pitch plan to combine finance, admin services

Cal State officials emphasized that the plan, which they called the San Francisco Bay Region Network, is not a merger.

Amy DiPierro/EdSource

Mar 28, 2025

Will this be the end of California's housing v. environment wars?

A new bill would exempt most urban housing developments from the 55-year-old California Environmental Quality Act.

Ben Christopher/CalMatters

Mar 27, 2025

Sonoma County's first cannabis consumption lounge opens in Cotati

The Lounge at Mercy Wellness was over 5 years in the making due to permitting and regulations.

Michelle Marques

Mar 27, 2025

Santa Rosa school board votes to reinstate police officers in public high schools

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Jordan Triebel

Mar 27, 2025

Petaluma Argus-Courier reporter on mobile home park closure threats

Jennifer Sawhney speaks with KRCB's Noah Abrams about the closure notice sent to residents of Little Woods Mobile Villa in Petaluma.

Noah Abrams

Mar 27, 2025

California in settlement negotiations with Uber, Lyft in massive wage-theft case

Gig companies never complied with AB 5. Instead, they spent more than $200 million to put Proposition 22 on the ballot, promising higher pay and better benefits for gig workers.

Levi Sumagaysay/CalMatters

Mar 26, 2025

Gas station opponents hope to scuttle one of few remaining planned stations

The site at 874 N. Wright Road, has long been eyeballed for a gas station and small market, with plans stretching back over a decade.

Noah Abrams

Mar 26, 2025

Marin County moves to ban certain e-bikes for kids under 18

Public safety concerns over children riding class 2 e-bikes with throttles has prompted Marin County to consider implementing tighter regulations.

Alise Maripuu/Bay City News

Mar 24, 2025

Sebastopol Times reporters talk parking ban lawsuit, Analy budget concerns, and supportive housing

Laura Hagar Rush and Dale Dougherty of the Sebastopol Times caught up with KRCB's Noah Abrams to talk the latest headlines.

Noah Abrams

Mar 24, 2025

Tsunami week on North Coast; test planned for part of Sonoma, Napa counties Thursday

Along the North Coast, a multi-county tsunami response exercise is planned for Wednesday morning. On Thursday, some Sonoma Valley residents will hear an emergency alert test.

Bay City News/The California Report

Mar 21, 2025

Sonoma State University students will protest during a Week of Action

The protests are in conjunction with the California Faculty Association, March 24-27, 2025.

Michelle Marques

Mar 21, 2025

Santa Rosa City Schools shakes up admin roles within the district

Various high level admin have been reassigned or removed in recent weeks, as four school closures loom over the 2025-26 school year.

Noah Abrams

Mar 20, 2025

Cheese trail map offers road trip ideas for Bay Area foodies

In 2010, Vivien Straus, whose family owns and operates Straus Family Creamery in Petaluma and its ranch in Tomales Bay, created the Cheese Trail map.

Sarah Stierch/Bay City News

Mar 19, 2025

Petaluma Historical Library and Museum raises alarm about local impact of Trump executive order

The March 14 executive order calls for the severe reduction of the Institute of Museum and Library Services, among other organizations.

Michelle Marques

Mar 19, 2025

Sonoma County Ag & Open Space District tries inventive model to keep small farms afloat

The Buy-Protect-Sell program is being piloted in 2025; with plans to purchase, protect, and sell one farm property this year.

Noah Abrams

Mar 19, 2025

Students call on CA colleges to protect campuses from immigration enforcement

The California Community Colleges system, which serves the largest share of students in California who lack permanent legal status, issued a directive to its 116 colleges reminding administrators of their obligations "to prevent students, staff, and faculty from participating in federal immigration enforcement efforts…

Delilah Brumer/CalMatters

Mar 18, 2025

Sonoma County's small farmers grapple with unstable future

Sonoma County lost almost 500 farms between 2017 and 2022, and small farmers are feeling the squeeze as their fixed costs increase.

Noah Abrams

Mar 18, 2025

Scenes of loss---and resilience---at Sonoma State campus facing drastic cuts

The number of students at Sonoma State has plunged dramatically, from 9,400 students in 2015 to a nadir of about 5,800 in 2024.

Amy DiPierro/EdSource

Mar 17, 2025

Comedian Andy Samberg says a Saturday Night Live sketch was inspired by an encounter at a Petaluma theater

Samberg talked about going to a show at The Phoenix Theater during an episode of "The Lonely Island and Seth Meyers Podcast"

Michelle Marques

Mar 14, 2025

Sonoma Valley Unified trustee resigns after fiery comments about Trump supporters

In her Feb. 28 post, Winders said that now is the time to "stop being so damn polite."

Katy St. Clair/Bay City News

Mar 14, 2025

Santa Rosa City Schools board calls last-minute meeting to address layoff notices

The school board was sent a cease-and-desist order over elimination of a teaching position called a restorative specialist.

Jordan Triebel

Mar 14, 2025

KRCB Wine Beat: Industry players say tariffs on Canada are bad business for CA wineries

After a 30-day pause, the new taxes went into effect on March 4.

Tina Caputo

Mar 13, 2025

DOGE plans to close Bureau of Land Management field office in Ukiah

The office also manages The Geysers, an isolated area straddling the Sonoma-Lake County border that is home to one of the world's largest geothermal field.

Sarah Stierch/Bay City News

Mar 12, 2025

Marin County declares shelter crisis; move paves way for Pt. Reyes ranch worker housing

Back in January, 11 family ranchers and over 90 tenants on ranches at the national park learned they could no longer run cattle operations.

Ruth Dusseault/Bay City News

Mar 11, 2025

5 years later: Sonoma County's health officer reflects on COVID-19

"Sonoma County has an outstanding and very versatile epidemiology team that works every single day, monitoring all kinds of disease processes."

Greta Mart

Mar 11, 2025

7 student-athletes sue Sonoma State over athletic department cuts

Filed March 7 in Sonoma County Superior Court, the suit alleges fraud and misrepresentation by the defendants and asks a judge to set aside the decision.

Tony Hicks/Bay City News & Noah Abrams

Mar 10, 2025

Sonoma County housing market shows volatility

Some areas, like Petaluma's Westside, showed impressive increase in price per square foot, while places like Glen Ellen saw a steep decline last month.

Michelle Marques

Mar 10, 2025

Are California wines really full of scary additives?

For the last few years, ads on social media have been telling consumers that there’s a lot more than just grapes in the average bottle of California wine.

Tina Caputo

Mar 07, 2025

US Representatives, local healthcare leaders speak out against Medicare cuts

Representatives Mike Thompson and Jared Huffman addressed House Republican's budget plan which will slash federal healthcare spending.

Noah Abrams

Mar 07, 2025

Summerfield Cinemas closes with free screenings of movies shot in Santa Rosa

The films Shadow of a Doubt, Smooth Talk, and Smile feature familiar landmarks like McDonald Avenue, the Vets Building, Santa Rosa Plaza and Howarth Park.

Michelle Marques

Mar 06, 2025

Sebastopol Times editor talks city's dashed news media contact protocols

Laura Hagar Rush, of the online publication Sebastopol Times, spoke with KRCB's Noah Abrams about the controversial proposal.

Noah Abrams

Mar 06, 2025

Educators sue to block Trump anti-DEI policy

Santa Rosa City Schools assistant principal Roderick Castro notes the letter criticizes using race as a factor in hiring and training.

Suzanne Potter/CA News Service

Mar 05, 2025

Sonoma County asks for public input on new fire hazard maps

Cal Fire released the updated fire hazard severity zone maps for Sonoma County and the Bay Area on February 24th.

Noah Abrams

Mar 05, 2025

Well permitting window extended to March 27

A judge allowed Sonoma County to permit new non-emergency wells starting in February, even as a lawsuit over the rules moves forward.

Noah Abrams

Mar 05, 2025

Scientific literacy and fun at the North Bay Science Discovery Day in Santa Rosa

The free annual event at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds features hands on STEM activities aimed at kids aged 9 to 14, but is open to all ages.

Michelle Marques

Mar 04, 2025

North Bay congressman tapped as designated survivor; voices deep concerns in KRCB News interview

"There's a group right now in Congress that are trying to [privatize Social Security], and to get what appears to be the blessing from Elon Musk should frighten everybody," said Thompson.

Michelle Marques

Mar 02, 2025

Immigration attorney advises clients to carry 'red cards" and remain silent

Trump’s executive orders to increase deportation efforts has heightened anxiety within immigrant communities.

Sydney Fishman

Feb 28, 2025

Biodiversity, regenerative agroforestry the focus at Cazadero nonprofit Teravana

The nonprofit's name is a mash-up of the Latin word for earth and the Buddhist principle of nirvana.

Lauren Spates

Feb 28, 2025

Mendocino county supervisors reject ordinance to regulate water extraction and selling

During California's prolonged drought of 2020 to 2022, Mendocino County was among the hardest-hit areas, forcing some local businesses to temporarily close due to low water supplies.

Sydney Fishman/Bay City News

Feb 27, 2025

Local Indigenous youth selected for Brave Heart Fellowship

A member of the Dry Creek Rancheria Band of Pomo Indians is one of the current cohort of 10 Brave Heart Fellows, working on energy independence for tribal communities.

Michelle Marques

Feb 27, 2025

New fire hazard maps for Sonoma County, North Coast released by Cal Fire

The updated map designates 7,555 acres of unincorporated Sonoma County as a 'very high' fire hazard area.

Noah Abrams

Feb 26, 2025

15-year-old arrested for attempted murder in Santa Rosa classroom fight

SRPD says detectives are still investigating the reason for the altercation between the boys.

Katy St. Clair/Bay City News

Feb 25, 2025

Clothes dryers due for closer look as possible culprit for spread of microplastics

The San Francisco Estuary Institute is studying microfiber pollution from commercial and residential clothes dryers into the local environment.

Noah Abrams

Feb 23, 2025

Congressman Thompson and Assemblyman Rogers host public forum in Santa Rosa

Overflow crowds showed up to hear what local lawmakers are doing about federal actions from the Trump administration.

Michelle Marques

Feb 21, 2025

Unions rally before legislative forum at Sonoma State

As of 6:30 p.m. Friday, the session was still going with people lined up to address the lawmakers during public comment.

Greta Mart & Thomas Hughes/Bay City News

Feb 20, 2025

Sonoma State University faculty proposes a different way to solve the budget crisis

'Forever United for Sonoma Excellence' or FUSE is a coalition of faculty, students, and community members all focused on saving Sonoma State.

Michelle Marques

Feb 19, 2025

Decision on Santa Rosa school closures awaits

Santa Rosa City Schools trustees are considering closing Elsie Allen High School as part of a cost-saving school closure plan.

Noah Abrams

Feb 18, 2025

Hundreds rally on Presidents' Day against second Trump administration

The Monday gathering in Santa Rosa, dubbed "No Kings Day", was just one of many protests held across the country over the holiday.

Lauren Spates

Feb 18, 2025

Evacuation warning finally lifted for low lying river areas

The Sonoma County Sheriff's Office gave evacuation orders due to flood risk on February 4th.

Bay City News

Feb 18, 2025

Covering the story: Santa Rosa City Schools plans for campus closures

Due to a multi-million-dollar budget deficit., Sonoma County's largest public school district is closing entire campuses.

Jordan Triebel

Feb 14, 2025

Study shows Sonoma Valley roads are insufficient during wildfire evacuations

The $90-thousand-dollar study showed that traffic delays in emergency evacuations could be over 4 hours along Arnold Drive and Route 12.

Michelle Marques

Feb 12, 2025

The Sonoma Botanical Garden contributes citizen science to long-term study

USA National Phenology Network monitors the influence of climate on the phenology of plants, animals, and landscapes.

Michelle Marques

Feb 12, 2025

Workers picket Providence Healthcare across Napa, Humboldt, and Sonoma counties

Providence caregivers say they are understaffed and underpaid compared to other caregivers and medical staff on the North Coast.

Noah Abrams

Feb 11, 2025

The U.S. wine industry is in a ‘demand reset,' industry watchers say

California grape grower ripped out 20,000 acres of vineyard last year as demand for wine fell.

Tina Caputo

Feb 07, 2025

Press Democrat/KRCB Community Conversation: SSU program cuts

Some 500 attendees submitted questions about the proposed budget cuts at Sonoma State during The Press Democrat’s virtual “community conversation."

Press Democrat staff & Greta Mart

Feb 07, 2025

Sonoma County resumes issuing new water well permits

A temporary court order is allowing Permit Sonoma to issue non-emergency well permits for at least two weeks.

Noah Abrams

Feb 07, 2025

Sonoma County UC Master Gardeners get over $1-million grant to transform eastern Santa Rosa parcel into Teaching and Demo Garden

The grant from Sonoma County Agricultural Preservation + Open Space District is for a 4.5-acre parcel that was damaged in the 2020 Glass Fire.

Michelle Marques

Feb 06, 2025

Santa Rosa public schools choosing among six different proposals on school closures

Montgomery and Elsie Allen High School were ranked most likely to close at the high school level.

Jordan Triebel

Feb 05, 2025

West county reacts to moderate Russian River flooding

Murdock said river levels are expected to fall through Thursday morning, but a smaller storm system is forecast to pass through Sonoma County Thursday and Friday.

Noah Abrams

Feb 04, 2025

Sheriff issues evacuation order along Russian River

The current forecast predicts that the river will crest at 35.2 feet at Guerneville on Wednesday at 7 a.m.

Katy St. Clair/Bay City News

Feb 04, 2025

Mudslide sends Forestville home into Russian River

A mudslide triggered Tuesday afternoon near the intersection of Westside and Rio Vista roads in Forestville.

Bay City News

Feb 04, 2025

Demand for immigrant legal services spikes at California colleges

An estimated 3.3 million Californians live in mixed-status households, according to data from Equity Research Institute, a USC research group.

Delilah Brumer & Mercy Sosa/CalMatters

Feb 02, 2025

Anger, disppointment permeate SSU virtual town hall meeting

As the crowd gathered in the heart of the campus vented their frustration, speakers in the virtual meeting made their disapproval known too.

Noah Abrams

Jan 31, 2025

Sonoma County looking at splitting registrar of voters from clerk-recorder assessor into appointed position

Salary and benefits for the position would be an estimated $350,000 a year, according to the staff report.

Thomas Hughes/Bay City News

Jan 30, 2025

Anger and frustration palpable at Sonoma State rally

Hundreds gathered Thursday afternoon at the SSU campus to protest a plan to eliminate six entire departments, the athletics program and 16 additional degree programs.

Noah Abrams

Jan 30, 2025

Sonoma County Board of Supervisors accused of "pay-to-play" politics

The county's largest public employees union says Supervisor David Rabbitt took a closed door meeting on a property deal with a donor who contributed to his campaign.

Michelle Marques

Jan 29, 2025

Stanford's Center on Longevity tackles ageism at annual summit

By 2034, older adults are projected to outnumber children for the first time in U.S. history.

Susan Nash/Bay City News

Jan 28, 2025

Entire CSU system braces for possible cuts in classes, sports

Budget problems and enrollment drops are threatening programs at schools across the 23 campus system, not just Sonoma State.

Amy DiPierro & Michael Burke/EdSource

Jan 28, 2025

Cotati city council weighing options to fill seat after Rivers resigns

Rivers, on the council since 2022, abruptly resigned on January 21, citing personal and professional reasons.

Noah Abrams

Jan 27, 2025

Trump's promise of mass deportations looms over California's wine industry

A recent U.S. Department of Labor survey estimates that undocumented immigrants make up 51 percent of the state’s agricultural workforce.

Tina Caputo

Jan 26, 2025

Ukrainian winemaker and US veterans team up to show the best of Ukraine, a glass at a time

A group of American veterans and diplomats who served in Kyiv are teaming up with a Ukrainian winery owner to bring a taste of the Black Sea coast to a U.S. audience.

Ellen Knickmeyer/Associated Press

Jan 24, 2025

Tears and disappointment punctuate reactions to SSU budget cuts

46 faculty members will be released as part of the budget cut to the university.

Noah Abrams

Jan 24, 2025

What LA schools can learn from NorCal districts that survived wildfires

Santa Rosa's public school district established a redundant server in a separate location so officials could still communicate with their school community in the event that their primary servers went down or were burned.

Betty Marquez Rosales/EdSource

Jan 23, 2025

Joe Matos Cheese Factory is closing at the end of January

One of the first artisan cheese makers in the North Bay, the Matos family made cheese inspired by their homeland, the Azores.

Michelle Marques

Jan 23, 2025

Students, faculty sound off on Sonoma State budget cuts

Six academic departments, over a dozen degree programs, and the entire collegiate athletics program are slated for cuts to fix a $23.9 million deficit.

Noah Abrams

Jan 22, 2025

Sonoma State discontinuing athletics, eliminating several degree programs

Enrollment numbers have dropped 38% in the past decade.

Dan McMenamin/Bay City News & KRCB News

Jan 22, 2025

Federal dollars continue to flow into Potter Valley Project makeover

North Coast Representative Jared Huffman recently announced a $15 million award for restoration and construction work on the Eel River.

Noah Abrams

Jan 21, 2025

Conflicting messages about when Mitote Food Park in Roseland will close

A social media post by Mitote Food Park says the space will close at the end of this month due to expedited construction schedules, but Sonoma County officials say the lease ends in June, not January.

Michelle Marques

Jan 20, 2025

CalMatters tracked CA's lawsuits against Donald Trump. Here's where the state won and lost

Roughly half of the lawsuits that the state filed against the Trump administration the first time around were related in some way to the environment.

Ana B. Ibarra and Ben Christopher/CalMatters

Jan 17, 2025

SchoolsRule Sonoma County names new ambassador

Lorez Bailey was previously the editor of the North Bay Business Journal and Executive Director of Chop's Teen Club.

Michelle Marques

Jan 17, 2025

Sonoma County residents feeling PTSD in wake of Los Angeles fires

Memories of Sonoma County's devastating fires in 2017, 2019, and 2020 are triggering PTSD in residents here as they see similar tragedies in Los Angeles County.

Michelle Marques

Jan 16, 2025

Newsom committed CA to make its own insulin; it's at least a year behind schedule

A 2020 law aimed partially at bringing down insulin prices allowed Newsom to negotiate the 10-year, $50 million contract with Civica.

Kristen Hwang/CalMatters

Jan 15, 2025

Sonoma County updates flood risks maps for lower Russian River

FEMA's latest assessment, the first in 30 years for the lower Russian River, expands the map of high risk flood zones into developed areas.

Noah Abrams

Jan 15, 2025

Two teens arrested for shooting another teen near Santa Rosa school

The 16-year-old was shot multiple times in the legs and is in stable condition after the Monday afternoon shooting.

Michelle Marques

Jan 14, 2025

Governor's budget proposal may lead to higher-ed cuts at CSU, UC

A proposed budget cut of almost 8% for next year could lead to larger class sizes, fewer course offerings and staff reductions unless it is reversed.

Suzanne Potter/CA News Service

Jan 13, 2025

Sonoma County schools push to enhance arts education with Prop 28 funding

School districts received nearly $9.5 million for news arts and music education in the 2023-24 school year, however many have not yet used the funds.

Michelle Marques

Jan 13, 2025

KRCB 2-WAY: Can California keep ICE away from schools?

School districts have also doubled down on their efforts to protect students and families.

Greta Mart

Jan 10, 2025

Avian flu outbreaks cause shortages, drive up prices of eggs for consumers

Sticker shock when reaching for a dozen eggs? Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza has hit producers across the state, and nation, sending prices high.

Noah Abrams

Jan 10, 2025

LA fires could drastically drive up insurance premiums, test CA's new market rules

An estimated 1 in 5 homes in the upscale neighborhood were covered by the insurer known as the FAIR Plan.

Levi Sumagaysay/CalMatters

Jan 08, 2025

Agreement reached on Point Reyes National Seashore

Six dairies and six beef ranching operations will vacate the park within the next 15 months.

Noah Abrams

Jan 08, 2025

Sonoma County sends fire crews to battle wildfires in Los Angeles County

SRFD Division Chief Fire Marshall Paul Lowenthal says some of the fire personnel sent to Southern California fought in Sonoma County's October 2017 wildfires.

Michelle Marques

Jan 08, 2025

Santa Rosa police investigating potential homicide after four found dead in mobile home

SRPD were on scene around 3 PM Wednesday, and found four deceased after executing a welfare check at a senior mobile home residence.

Noah Abrams

Jan 08, 2025

Finding a bounty of wild mushrooms in the North Bay

Though some can cost 50 dollars or more by the pound in specialty stores, they’re free for the picking for those who know where to look.

Tina Caputo

Jan 06, 2025

Windsor's public library getting a makeover

A mini-library will operate from the Windsor branch's meeting room for the duration of the full remodel project, estimated to take 2 to 3 months.

Michelle Marques

Jan 06, 2025

Santa Rosa police weigh use of drones as first responder program

A community meeting to discuss the possibilities will be held on Jan. 22.

Bay City News & Greta Mart

Jan 06, 2025

How CSU's first Black woman trustee influenced the university system

Hampton was the first African American trustee of the California State University, serving on the board from 1974 to 1994.

Amy DiPierro/EdSource

Jan 02, 2025

Federal fishery disaster declaration requested to aid the albacore fishing industry

State officials say California’s albacore fishery declined 71% in volume and 65% in value last year.

Manola Secaira/CapRadio

Dec 31, 2024

More than 30 restaurants participate in the first-ever North Bay Pizza Week

Some restaurants are preparing special menu items to celebrate, and even donating to local charities.

Michelle Marques

Dec 31, 2024

New CA law bans many toxic chemicals in makeup

The FDA says cosmetic companies are responsible for selling safe products and keeping records.

Sally Longnecker/CapRadio

Dec 30, 2024

New year starts with new laws impacting education

New California state laws will protect the privacy of LGBTQ+ students and make it more difficult to discriminate against people of color based on their hairstyles.

Diana Lambert and Emma Gallegos/EdSource

Dec 29, 2024

Marin County high school district settles suits for tennis coach abuse

Two victims sued the district, alleging negligence, and a Marin County jury agreed in 2022.

Thomas Hughes/Bay City News

Dec 26, 2024

Energy expert weighs in on CA decreasing gas prices

Oil refiners have been required to report certain price data to the state for the past year and a half.

Laura Fitzgerald/CapRadio

Dec 26, 2024

Christmas at San Quentin

What the holidays look like inside the walls of the state's oldest prison.

Steve Brooks and Ruth Dusseault

Dec 24, 2024

Three people rescued after being swept up by an ocean wave north of Bodega Bay

Two members of Sonoma County Fire District happened to be nearby when the call came in.

Michelle Marques

Dec 24, 2024

Uncertain future ahead Point Reyes Seashore ranches and ranch workers

West Marin attorney Andrew Giacomini is fighting to keep ranch employees and their families in their homes if the ranches close via settlement.

Noah Abrams

Dec 23, 2024

Aloha Caftan Society celebrates colorful holidays in Sonoma County

The group gathered at the Flamingo Resort for the Sippin' Santa pop-up, wearing fabulous caftans.

Michelle Marques

Dec 20, 2024

Northern California residents sue members of Congress over Israel military aid votes

Organizers with group Taxpayers Against Genocide say over 500 people have signed on to the class action suit against Reps. Huffman and Thompson.

Noah Abrams

Dec 20, 2024

Twice-delayed commercial crab season set to open in early January

Bodega Bay crabbers have had to agree to a 50% reduction in gear for regulators to let them fish.

Jacob Resneck

Dec 19, 2024

A closer look at ocean research off the Sonoma coast

Come aboard a research vessel heading to the Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuary.

Ruth Dusseault

Dec 18, 2024

North Bay residents plan class action suit over military aid to Israel

Some 500 Northern California residents, organized as Taxpayers Against Genocide, are seeking federal court intervention.

Noah Abrams

Dec 18, 2024

Sonoma County honors legacy farming families who have farmed for at least 100 years

There were 22 families honored at the inaugural Century Club celebration hosted by Sonoma County Winegrowers.

Michelle Marques

Dec 17, 2024

Santa Rosa organization advocates for affordable housing and pedestrian only zones

Santa Rosa YIMBY (which stands for Yes in my Backyard) wants to build Santa Rosa into an affordable, low-carbon, and vibrant city for all.

Michelle Marques

Dec 16, 2024

Secret Santa program brings joy to Sonoma County residents for the past 36 years

Over 13,000 gifts are being distributed this year by the Center for Volunteer and Nonprofit Leadership

Michelle Marques

Dec 13, 2024

Alexander Valley wine workers fight for back wages

The employees of Reynoso Family Vineyards say they're owed unpaid wages dating back to May.

Noah Abrams

Dec 13, 2024

83% turnout means about 54,000 Sonoma County voters sat out the election

Nearly 180,000 people in Sonoma County voted for the Harris/Walz ticket; over 63,000 voted for Trump and Vance.

Greta Mart

Dec 13, 2024

Japanese poet who translated the entire Peanuts comic strip catalog dies at age 92

Shuntaro Tanikawa began translating the comic strip in the late 1960s.

Michelle Marques

Dec 12, 2024

Novavine nursery partners with Redwood Empire Food Bank for pilot program

The nursery is growing culturally relevant produce for the food bank during their off-season, employing nursery workers who might normally be laid off.

Michelle Marques

Dec 11, 2024

Countering referendum results, Lake County supervisors endorse Kelseyville name change

The final decision to change the name to Konocti – or something else entirely – rests with the U.S. Board of Geographic Names.

Jacob Resneck

Dec 10, 2024

Sonoma County's largest provider of immigration legal services in 'emergency preparedness' mode

Attendees at the 'Know About Your Rights' sessions learn specifics for what to do if they’re stopped or detained.

Lauren Spates

Dec 10, 2024

Susan Gorin honored as elected tenure in local politics ends

Gorin, first elected as Sonoma County's District 1 Supervisor in 2012, did not seek re-election in 2024.

Noah Abrams

Dec 09, 2024

Franchettis' Gasthaus + Biergarten is saying auf Wiedersehen and arrivederci

The popular German-Italian restaurant in Santa Rosa is closing its doors for good this month, but it is not the end of the story for owners John and Gesine Franchetti.

Michelle Marques

Dec 09, 2024

Sonoma city council votes to shift to district-based elections

Sonoma plans to adopt district-based elections by March 2025.

Bay City News

Dec 06, 2024

Dungeness crab season again delayed in California's waters

A large number of migrating whales and the threat of trap entanglement, plus the presence of domoic acid in some crabs, prompt latest delay.

Noah Abrams

Dec 06, 2024

Human composting coming to CA, says local end-of-life doula

Two free events this weekend in Santa Rosa and Sebastopol will explore end of life choices, including a new burial option.

Greta Mart

Dec 05, 2024

North Coast's state reps report on quake aftermath

The 7.0-magnitude quake at 10:44 a.m. Thursday struck off Cape Mendocino.

Michelle Marques

Dec 05, 2024

Tsunami warning now cancelled; 7.0 earthquake strikes off coast

An estimated 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck offshore at 10:44 a.m. Thursday.

Mark Thiessena/AP and Greta Mart

Dec 04, 2024

Stepping back into history at Sonoma County's oldest artist studios

The Studio Santa Rosa is housed in former naval barracks that were part of a military airport commissioned in 1943.

Michelle Marques

Dec 03, 2024

County guidelines for Sonoma Developmental Center off the table

Sonoma County's supervisors were forced to repeal their site-specific plan for the SDC due to a lawsuit and a "builder's remedy" for the project.

Noah Abrams

Dec 03, 2024

Local wine businesses brace for potential tariffs in 2025

Winemakers say tariffs would result in a host of negative effects that would put additional pressure on the U.S. wine industry in a down market.

Tina Caputo

Dec 02, 2024

Mario Savio honored on 60th anniversary of "Bodies Upon the Gears" speech

Savio, the leader of 1964's Free Speech Movement at UC Berkeley, lived in Sebastopol and taught at Sonoma State University in the 1990s.

Noah Abrams

Dec 02, 2024

Santa Rosa animal rescue nonprofit heals without borders

Once they arrive in Santa Rosa, these now-lucky dogs — big or small, furry or wire-haired, barking or silently quivering — all go through the same intake process.

Lauren Spates

Dec 01, 2024

Annual Windsor town green display a draw for locals and visitors alike

On December 5, the Windsor town green will be lit up with holiday lights, with "snow" in the air, carols and Santa letter writing.

Pricila Flores

Nov 27, 2024

LEGO fans of all ages gather in Santa Rosa

Adults and children flocked to the Santa Rosa Veterans Memorial building to celebrate LEGO.

Michelle Marques

Nov 27, 2024

Objections grow to barred owl hunt on federal land, including Point Reyes

The animal welfare groups' lawsuit argues the plan is a violation of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

Thomas Hughes/Bay City News

Nov 26, 2024

Coast Guard says caution vitally important when boating in winter months

The stretch of coastline along Salmon Creek Beach has claimed multiple lives from capsized boats in November.

Noah Abrams

Nov 25, 2024

What's going to happen to my kids: California prepares to resist Trump deportations

Immigrant Legal Resource Center, a national nonprofit that provides legal training and does pro-immigrant policy work in California and Texas, estimates 70 to 75% of ICE arrests in the interior of the U.S. are handoffs from another law enforcement agency, such as local jails or state or federal prisons.

Wendy Fry/CalMatters

Nov 22, 2024

Record rain continues across Sonoma County and the North Bay

Forecasts from the National Weather Service show a chance for moderate flooding along the Russian River in Guerneville early Saturday.

Noah Abrams and Michelle Marques

Nov 20, 2024

Valley Ford murder suspect had encounter with Sheriff's deputies just hours before deadly assault

The suspect, a 44-year old Fairfield resident, due to be arraigned Monday morning, is being held without bail.

Noah Abrams

Nov 19, 2024

Covered California starts offering health care to DACA immigrants. Will Trump’s win deter them?

The move is expected to provide relief to thousands of so-called Dreamers, especially those who are freelancers, self-employed or have no other means of health coverage.

Ana B. Ibarra/CalMatters

Nov 18, 2024

Sonoma County's airport looking for new tenants, including for the Victorian home it owns

The airport has made seven parcels, some on, and some off airport grounds, available for development.

Noah Abrams

Nov 18, 2024

Salmon return to lay eggs in historic habitat after largest dam removal project in US history

There have been lower concentrations of harmful algae blooms and the river's water temperatures are lower since the dam removal.

Hallie Golden/Associated Press

Nov 15, 2024

Press Democrat/KRCB 2024 Election Poll

Find insights into what motivated local voters in the November 5, 2024, General Election.

Kelly Olsen

Nov 15, 2024

Coastal Commission approves overhaul of Sonoma County's coast land use plan

Some of the changes focus on new goals such as encouraging more affordable housing development and combatting sea level rise.

Thomas Hughes/Bay City News

Nov 15, 2024

The Lost Church searches for a new home

The intimate venue in downtown Santa Rosa will host its final show on November 23rd.

Michelle Marques

Nov 15, 2024

Sonoma County kids spread kindness with new book

Peptoc Fest celebrates a book launch, and exciting new projects.

Michelle Marques

Nov 14, 2024

Food production layoffs continue at Sonoma County companies

The largest staff reduction is at Amy's Kitchen, where over 300 workers are being laid off in December.

Noah Abrams

Nov 14, 2024

UC plans hefty tuition increase for non-Californians

The increase for now is a one-time hike, but UC could raise tuition further for future entering classes when it sets its budget for future years

Michael Burke/EdSource

Nov 14, 2024

Super Saturday at Redwood Empire Food Bank

Various groups are stepping up on Saturday to help collect food and raise funds for the food bank.

Michelle Marques

Nov 13, 2024

Plans pending for new asphalt plant in Forestville

Canyon Rock Inc. is hoping to co-locate a new asphalt plant, which the company says is sorely needed, at its Pocket Canyon quarry west of Forestville.

Noah Abrams

Nov 11, 2024

Petaluma's Veterans Day celebration keeps tradition going

Petaluma has been hosting a Veterans Day parade since 1967; started then by World War I veterans.

Noah Abrams

Nov 11, 2024

Care Court coming to Sonoma County

Sonoma County is adding a behavioral health specialist and client support specialist to help with the Care Court rollout, starting December 1.

Noah Abrams

Nov 08, 2024

WinterBlast brings 'fairy winterland' to Santa Rosa

The popular annual arts festival returns Saturday featuring open studios, live music and the lighted sofa parade.

Michelle Marques

Nov 08, 2024

Measure J lessons: Contested animal farm ban revealed public's lack of knowledge about food systems

Sonoma County's Ag Commissioner said the Yes on J campaign argued Sonoma County was the perfect spot to ban factory farming because of its progressive liberal politics, even though the problems were not necessarily bad there.

Ruth Dusseault/Bay City News

Nov 06, 2024

Post-election debrief with SSU political scientist Dave McCuan

"The agricultural community is understanding that they have to visit some of these issues as well."

Michelle Marques

Nov 06, 2024

Sonoma County voters reject Measure J

Voters are giving a thumbs down to a ballot measure that targeted ag operations in Sonoma County

Noah Abrams and Greta Mart

Nov 05, 2024

Election 2024: A last look at Measure J and animal welfare

Props 2 and 12 set high standards compared to the rest of the country for how egg laying hens, calves, and pigs are treated.

Noah Abrams and Greta Mart

Nov 05, 2024

Local psychologists give tips for handling high anxiety on this Election Day

Voters in West Sonoma County are feeling some intensity today, as KRCB News heard outside two polling places there. So we spoke with two local psychologists for tips on how to manage the complex tangle of emotions coming up on this momentous day.

Lauren Spates

Nov 04, 2024

Election 2024: A last look at Measure J and economic impacts

The two sides of the campaign have put forward competing and divergent forecasts for how the passage of Measure J would impact the local economy.

Noah Abrams and Greta Mart

Nov 04, 2024

Red flag warning prompts warning of possible power shutoffs

PG&E officials say they have been taking proactive measures to ensure the reliability of service to key election facilities.

Michelle Marques and Ruth Dusseault/Bay City News

Nov 04, 2024

New report advises regulators on how to deal with high potency cannabis

The report urges the state to limit the manufacture and sale of high-THC products, require better consumer information, and make cannabis products less attractive to children.

Kate Wolff/CapRadio

Nov 01, 2024

Election 2024: A last look at Measure J and bird flu

Sonoma County declared a local emergency because of the HPAI outbreaks

Noah Abrams and Greta Mart

Nov 01, 2024

Sonoma County elections department expects 85 to 90% voter turnout

Sonoma County's election department is livestreaming ballot processing around the clock until the vote is certified, likely in December.

Greta Mart

Oct 31, 2024

Tour Santa Rosa's McDonald Avenue Halloween Celebration

The main attraction on McDonald Avenue is a sprawling mansion called Mableton.

Michelle Marques

Oct 31, 2024

Election 2024: A last look at Measure J and the environment

Animal ag, especially cows, does create a lot of emissions, but with 42 of Sonoma County's 50 dairies being certified organic, emission levels are lower in than in places like the Central Valley.

Noah Abrams and Greta Mart

Oct 31, 2024

'Halloweird' evokes Petaluma's vaudeville past

After seeing a burlesque and variety show in Oakland a decade ago, Ward said he was encouraged to start creating his own version called North Bay Cabaret.

Michelle Marques

Oct 30, 2024

Election 2024: A last look at Measure J and CAFOs

A summary series of KRCB News' reporting on Sonoma County's Measure J.

Noah Abrams and Greta Mart

Oct 30, 2024

Visitors from the opposite side of the Pacific taking up residence along the west coast

Separated for a quarter million years, scientists theorize a warming ocean is re-uniting these distant cousins

Marc Albert

Oct 29, 2024

Revised Guenoc Valley development plan aims to allay wildfire concerns

Despite the loss of an appeal, the 1400-home proposed new development in Lake County could win final approval next year.

Marc Albert

Oct 29, 2024

60 years later, activists remember PG&E's plan for Bodega Head nuclear plant

A Bodega Bay waitress named Hazel Mitchell overhead two utility workers confirm what many had suspected.

Jacob Resneck

Oct 29, 2024

Some California cities could see big changes in rent control if Prop. 33 passes

A measure on the California ballot would repeal a state housing law limiting how cities can regulate rents, letting local governments make that decision.

FelIcia Mello/CalMatters & the Associated Press

Oct 28, 2024

Monte Rio and Villa Grande homeowners weighing wastewater system options

One plan would install up-to-standard septic tanks and group neighboring properties into shared leach fields positioned in the hills.

Lauren Spates

Oct 24, 2024

Tunnel Vision: A look at California's $20 billion solution to its water crisis

What happens in the Delta directly impacts salmon fishermen and women in Bodega Bay, since salmon rely on the these same waters for survival.

Ruth Dusseault/Bay City News

Oct 23, 2024

Local economy rebounding, but housing prices creating headwinds

Most economic sectors doing well, but office vacancies, declining population and housing costs are limiting factors.

Marc Albert

Oct 22, 2024

Micro-restaurants, food services may flourish under newly approved rules

Ordinance would allow home cooks to launch public-serving businesses January 1.

Marc Albert

Oct 22, 2024

Regional advocacy group quizzes candidates on transit issues

Survey responses find agreement on some issues, disparate opinions on others

Marc Albert

Oct 21, 2024

Seven of eight candidates for Petaluma Council debate issues

Some share similar visions, other offer contrasts in race for three district council seats

Marc Albert

Oct 21, 2024

Wine industry still feeling the ‘Sideways effect’ after 20 years

USDA figures show that merlot plantings in California declined 35 percent between 2004 and 2023. Meanwhile, pinot noir acreage almost doubled.

Tina Caputo

Oct 18, 2024

The race for Santa Rosa's District 5 city council seat

Jeremy Newton, chair of the Santa Rosa Housing Authority, is looking to fill the council seat being vacated by Chris Rogers.

Noah Abrams

Oct 18, 2024

Two newcomers vie for Santa Rosa's District 5 city council seat

Caroline Bañuelos, a Santa Rosa Junior College trustee, is vying to fill the seat being vacated by the long-serving Chris Rogers.

Noah Abrams

Oct 17, 2024

Power shutoffs possible for 1000+ Sonoma County PG&E customers

PG&E says more than 3,000 customers in Napa County and 1,010 in Sonoma County are on the current power shutoff forecast list.

Greta Mart

Oct 16, 2024

Marin County adopts roadmap to wean buildings off of gas appliances

In 2022, 85% of the emissions from Marin's buildings came from the burning of natural gas in appliances and equipment.

Ruth Dusseault/Bay City News

Oct 15, 2024

What Proposition 2 would mean for Sonoma County school districts

This year, because Proposition 2 is also on the ballot, districts can double their local education bond dollars, with state dollars.

Srishti Prabha/CapRadio

Oct 14, 2024

Photos of dead cattle show bird flu is overwhelming Tulare County. How did the virus get in?

Without avian influenza, “there just wouldn't be that many dead cows."

Kerry Kline/KVPR

Oct 11, 2024

Sonoma County Artistry: Defending, celebrating our sacred bond with Mother Earth

The Sebastopol-based filmmaker charts a personal journey, questioning the natural world around us and the need to heal the planet as we heal ourselves.

Noah Abrams

Oct 11, 2024

Transforming the playground for a changing climate

California is starting to help public schools replace asphalt with green spaces, but childcare providers haven't gotten the same kind of support.

Daisy Nguyen/KQED

Oct 10, 2024

More California first responders headed to Florida

Hundreds of California firefighters have been dispatched to the East Coast to assist in disaster recovery, in addition to electric line crews from PG&E.

Katy St. Clair/Bay City News

Oct 09, 2024

Outcome of Measure J likely to get a close eye across the country

Animal agriculture industry interests have been active against efforts similar to Measure J, both in California, and other states.

Jacob Resneck

Oct 08, 2024

Traffic circles near the wagon wheel? Cotati could reverse roundabout ban

Roundabouts and traffic circles were outlawed by Cotati voters over a decade ago. Next month they could reverse the prohibition.

Dan McMenamin/Bay City News

Oct 08, 2024

Five-way race for two council seats in Cloverdale

Mayor Todd Lands is seeking re-election, Councilwoman Melanie Bagby is stepping aside.

Marc Albert

Oct 07, 2024

Measure J has prompted record campaign spending - who's behind the money?

Press Democrat reporter Phil Barber spoke with KRCB's Jacob Resneck about where the money for things like mailers and billboards is coming from.

Jacob Resneck

Oct 04, 2024

Two CA dairy workers infected with bird flu, latest human cases in US

The new cases confirmed Thursday were found in dairy workers who had contact with cattle on separate farms in California's Central Valley.

Jonel Aleccia/AP

Oct 02, 2024

Airport officials, consulting firm prepping proposals aimed at reducing aircraft noise

Workshops this week to explain scope and scale of developing plans aimed at reducing noise complaints related to planes arriving and alighting from Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport.

Marc Albert

Oct 02, 2024

Local schools facing multiple challenges, including finding elected leaders

Declining enrollment, financial uncertainty and divisive national conversation on education appears to curb ambition of prospective school board candidates.

Marc Albert

Oct 02, 2024

Dungeness crab named official state animal

California's governor also signed a bill establishing the critically endangered black abalone as the state's official seashell.

Sarah Stierch/Bay City News

Oct 01, 2024

Is the food in the fridge still good? California wants to end the guessing game

The state is the first to ban food labels such as “sell by” or “best before” under a law signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom.

Tran Nguyen/Associated Press

Sep 30, 2024

Fans and foes of Measure J continue campaigning

Sonoma County's farm bureau head says farmers feel the measure has created awareness about the challenges they face.

Haven Daley/Associated Press

Sep 29, 2024

Koi Nation faces mounting opposition as it waits for U.S. Dept. of Interior decision

A tiny tribe is getting pushback for betting big on a $600M casino in Sonoma County.

Olga R. Rodriguez/Associated Press

Sep 26, 2024

What to do with old flares? Question that's befuddled boaters may soon be answered

Recreational boaters in California have few options but to hold onto their emergency marine flares, even well after the listed expiration date.

Noah Abrams

Sep 26, 2024

Records show Cal Fire employee accused of arson was former inmate firefighter

A court complaint filed by the Sonoma County District Attorney's Office revealed the man's criminal record and subsequent experience as an inmate firefighter.

Associate Press

Sep 25, 2024

New state law gives tenants more time to respond to eviction notices

Language barriers, lack of transportation and work schedules can also slow tenants' ability to respond.

Felicia Mello/CalMatters

Sep 24, 2024

Hearing set for next month for alleged firefighter-turned-arsonist

At a brief appearance Tuesday, defendant held without bail.

Marc Albert

Sep 22, 2024

California governor signs law banning all plastic shopping bags at grocery stores

The new measure approved by state legislators last month bans all plastic shopping bags starting in 2026.

Associate Press

Sep 20, 2024

Firefighter accused of sparking multiple Sonoma County wildfires in custody

Cal Fire law enforcement officers contributed to the arrest of one of the agency's own employees; he is suspected of starting five recent Sonoma County wildfires.

Tony Hicks/Bay City News & Marc Albert

Sep 20, 2024

'Real Neato' returns for sixth year on the Russian River

The one-day music festival promises an afternoon of rocking Bay Area acts at the Rio Nido Roadhouse.

Noah Abrams

Sep 19, 2024

Save the Redwoods League aims to conserve Sonoma coast redwoods

The 1,624-acre property includes second-growth redwoods and coastal prairies.

Manola Secaira/CapRadio

Sep 19, 2024

Cheated farmworkers made whole following federal intervention

Investigation reveals multiple violation of labor standards at local farm.

Marc Albert

Sep 19, 2024

Two Santa Rosa ballot measures likely to lift cost of vacation rentals

Measure EE would modestly raise hotel tax, FF would require some operators to buy business licenses.

Marc Albert

Sep 17, 2024

Sonoma County supervisors move ahead with residential tenant protections

The tenant protections bolster those included in California's Tenant Protection Act, but only apply to specific types of housing in unincorporated areas.

Noah Abrams

Sep 17, 2024

Marin ag trust joins opposition to Measure J

Marin is home to 19 dairies, Sonoma County 48; California’s organic milk production is concentrated in just three places, according to state statistics: Humboldt, Marin and Sonoma counties.

Noah Abrams and Greta Mart

Sep 13, 2024

Exploring Petaluma's links to abolition and the Underground Railroad

Figure who arrived to work as a minister in the latter half of the 19th century, played a significant role in the fight to abolish slavery.

Marc Albert

Sep 12, 2024

More questioning November's Measure O in Healdsburg

Some say the proposal is too broad and will rapidly shift vibes in a town at the intersection of quaint and tony

Marc Albert

Sep 11, 2024

County approves carbon neutrality framework

Detailed plan seeks to rein in carbon emissions by local government, become carbon neutral by decade's end.

Marc Albert

Sep 11, 2024

Coastal ranch land returned to tribal hands for stewardship

The 466-acre Dillon Beach Ranch property is between Dillon Beach and Bodega Bay.

Noah Abrams

Sep 11, 2024

Advocates say refined rope-less crab gear showing promise

Manufacturers and some crabbers say technology added to the humble crab pots all but eliminates conflicts with migrating whales, enabling longer crabbing seasons.

Marc Albert and Greta Mart

Sep 09, 2024

Yields rise as local agriculture continues growth

Another banner year for grape growers, apple orchards in Sonoma County.

Marc Albert

Sep 08, 2024

Graton tribe gifted coastside West Marin property

The Graton Rancheria is receiving the 466-acre property from the Western Rivers Conservancy….which bought the West Marin cattle ranch last year.

Jacob Resneck

Sep 06, 2024

False positives on hospital drug tests are triggering newborn child protective services cases

One Santa Rosa hospital says in a statement it "typically gets consent to drug-test patients for medical reasons, and as a mandated reporter under state law, it refers potential exposures of newborns to illicit drugs to child welfare authorities."

Greta Mart

Sep 06, 2024

Local election called off after no challengers emerge

With all three council seats uncontested, and no local measures on the ballot, November's election will proceed, but only with state and federal races.

Marc Albert

Sep 05, 2024

Camp Meeker trails enter public domain

The property transfer is expected to be recorded this month, legally opening the public land to non-motorized access.

Jacob Resneck

Sep 04, 2024

Health workers supporting Measure J link factory farms with pandemic illnesses

Rallying in front of Petaluma Poultry, animal rights advocates say overcrowded hen houses and treating cattle with anti-biotics could turn an animal disease into a human epidemic.

Marc Albert

Sep 03, 2024

Californians to face steep fines for violating water orders under new legislation

California water watchers and regulators have long bemoaned the state's limited powers to police its water rights system, which establishes priority among users of finite supply of water from rivers and streams.

Rachel Becker/CalMatters

Aug 30, 2024

Seasonal dam fails on Russian River

Part of the Vacation Beach Dam's structure appears to have given way Thursday night, August 29, sending a surge of water down the Russian River.

Noah Abrams

Aug 30, 2024

Cal Fire adds massive military cargo plane to its fleet

Cal Fire's first C-130H air tanker is the largest plane in the agency's fleet.

Tony Rodriguez/CapRadio News

Aug 30, 2024

"Don't forget us!" Classified staff call on Santa Rosa school district for raises

Classroom aides, custodians, office secretaries, and other classified public school staff in Santa Rosa are calling for a fair raise from the school board.

Noah Abrams

Aug 29, 2024

Major crash on Highway 12 in Santa Rosa

One person died and several were injured in the chain-reaction crash.

Greta Mart

Aug 28, 2024

Court strikes down Sonoma County well ordinance; says officials blew off environmental rules

Legal battle may mean more groundwater restrictions are in the pipeline.

Marc Albert

Aug 27, 2024

More questions, more answers at PG&E virtual town hall

The utility giant says it's rolling out the latest advancements and additional resources to keep North Coast communities safe from fires.

Noah Abrams

Aug 26, 2024

Santa Rosa okays regional homelessness prevention pilot program

The program pairs financial assistance with housing stabilization services and referrals to legal services for households most at-risk of losing their housing.

Bay City News

Aug 23, 2024

Sonoma County's best-kept secret? Monte Rio's 75-year-old movie house 'still kicking'

The Rio Theater first opened in 1949 on the banks of the Russian River.

Jacob Resneck

Aug 23, 2024

Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria backs Newsom's call to halt new casinos

Sonoma County is home to five federally recognized tribes.

Bay City News/Marc Albert/Noah Abrams

Aug 23, 2024

Sonoma supervisors approve new tenant protections

New rules require landlords to provide tenant rights information in English and Spanish when tenants are asked to leave a unit or when they're being evicted.

Kiley Russell/Bay City News

Aug 21, 2024

Local elected leaders weigh in on scuttled housing bond measure

The Bay Area Housing Finance Authority made the decision to pull the $20 billion bond from the November ballot due to weak polling numbers.

Noah Abrams

Aug 19, 2024

Cash infusion welcomed as county looks to bolster mental health teams

The nearly $4.5 million, from Measure O sales taxes and county coffers, is going towards Sonoma County's mobile crisis mental health response teams.

Amaray Alvarez

Aug 19, 2024

Agreement waits between Santa Rosa and its firefighters

Santa Rosa has settled up new contracts with all but one of the city's municipal employee unions: rank-and-file firefighters.

Noah Abrams

Aug 16, 2024

‘Come Over October’ aims to give ‘Sober October’ a run for its money

The idea behind the campaign is also to provide an alternative to Sober October—a movement that encourages people to take a month off from drinking.

Tina Caputo

Aug 16, 2024

Windsor sounds off on Koi Nation resort and casino environmental documents

Residents decried many facets of the environmental review and proposed mitigations for the proposed resort and casino.

Marc Albert

Aug 16, 2024

Opposition solidifies against Measure J in Sonoma County

A wide collection of elected officials and farming community leaders have united against the November ballot measure.

Noah Abrams

Aug 15, 2024

2nd compliance report since Kincaid Fire shows PG&E addressing deficiencies

The fire, caused by equipment on a transmission tower near Geyserville that broke in high winds, caused the largest evacuation in Sonoma County history of nearly 200,000 people.

Thomas Hughes/Bay City News

Aug 15, 2024

Study finds farmworkers face immense pressure to work in dangerous conditions

In Sonoma County, researchers found that a program aimed at determining when it was safe to work during wildfires did not adequately protect farmworkers.

Dorany Pineda/Associated Press

Aug 14, 2024

Newsom announces big grant to help built stalled Sebastopol housing

Conversion of the site to a used car lot likely to be short-lived.

Marc Albert

Aug 14, 2024

Getting permitted for street vending in Sonoma County

In 2018, former governor Jerry Brown signed the Safe Sidewalk Vending Act, decriminalizing street vending. In Sonoma County, 219 vendors hold a county permit.

Amaray Alvarez

Aug 14, 2024

Santa Rosa's renewed Athena House ready for addiction recovery

Athena House had its grand re-opening in June of this year; the site features eight new buildings along with a pickleball court, gym, garden and playground.

Amaray Alvarez

Aug 13, 2024

Measure W would continue extra support for county libraries

Additional library funding, approved by voters in 2016, would continue should Measure W win in November.

Marc Albert

Aug 12, 2024

No new taxes? Tax initiatives draw the ire of skeptics

Voter led tax initiatives, like Sonoma County's Measure I, have been criticized taxpayer groups like the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association.

Noah Abrams

Aug 09, 2024

Lightning fast response holding blaze on Stony Point Rd. near Cotati

Firefighters raced to the scene of a blaze burning through dry grass near Cotati and Rohnert Park. In less than an hour and half, a menacing wildfire that erupted along Stony Point Rd. near Cotati appears to have been brought under control.

Marc Albert

Aug 09, 2024

Utility tells regulators work to secure and protect power lines is reducing the need for pre-emptive blackouts

Burying lines, and installation of new technology is helping reduce frequency, duration and scope of PSPS blackouts

Marc Albert

Aug 09, 2024

Sebastopol adopts budget, residents decry sewer fund loan

Officials dig into financial reserves, make minor cuts, hope for better days ahead.

Marc Albert

Aug 08, 2024

Toddler tax? Measure I puts public childcare funding before voters

The Our Kids Our Future campaign is pushing for the measure, which would raise an estimated $30 million for local child care and health services.

Noah Abrams

Aug 08, 2024

Suicide prevention hotline volunteer bikes for Buckelew

The brother and sister bicycled the STP to raise money for Buckelew Programs, a nonprofit that provides mental health and addiction services in the North Bay.

Amaray Alvarez

Aug 06, 2024

US Health Secretary Xavier Becerra meets with farmworkers to talk extreme heat

California is one of a handful of states that has mandatory heat protections for outdoor workers.

Manola Secaira/CapRadio

Aug 06, 2024

Proposed Koi casino raises concerns from leader of Graton Rancheria

Graton tribal chairman Greg Sarris says BIA approval of competing facility would upend tribal sovereignty precedent.

Marc Albert

Aug 06, 2024

Healdsburg voters to weigh easing restrictions on development

Measure O would lift some restrictions on market rate rental housing construction in some parts of town.

Marc Albert

Aug 06, 2024

Grant program aims to open career paths for youth

Seed money funding apprenticeships with stipends and support for youth 'disconnected' from education.

Marc Albert

Aug 05, 2024

Affordable housing for another generation: CA trusts pull properties off the market

Indigenous tribes, immigrant neighborhoods and formerly-affordable inland cities are among the communities experimenting with community land trusts.

FelIcia Mello/CalMatters

Aug 02, 2024

Examining the rural need for helicopter membership in Mendocino County

Orsi's helicopter ride alone would have cost her $117,000, but thanks to the membership her husband secured for their entire family as the fire chief of Fort Bragg Volunteer Fire Department, she never paid a penny.

Aly Brown/Bay City News

Aug 01, 2024

Lane, ramp closures on 101 next week as Hearn Ave. overpass replacement effort commences

Overnight work will force detours, lane closures on part of US 101

Marc Albert

Jul 31, 2024

Fast food workers ask state for further wage increases

Several union members said that restaurants have cut their hours in response to April's wage increase, all but offsetting the bump in wages.

Cole Reynolds/Bay City News

Jul 30, 2024

Russian River Redwoods destined for long-term preservation

The forested property will eventually be transferred to Sonoma County.

Amaray Alvarez

Jul 29, 2024

Biden immigration order could help thousands of CA children

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will begin accepting applications in August.

Zaidee Stavely/EdSource

Jul 26, 2024

Governor's executive order takes new approach to homeless sweeps

A spokesperson indicated Sonoma County does not plan to make major changes to their homeless policy despite the Governor's order.

Noah Abrams

Jul 25, 2024

Uber, Lyft, DoorDash workers remain contractors after CA Supreme Court ruling

More than 1.4 million Californians are app-based gig workers for companies such as Uber, Lyft, DoorDash and Instacart, according to the industry's latest estimates.

Levi Sumagaysay/CalMatters

Jul 25, 2024

North Coast Congressman weighs in on controversial policy plan

CA 2 Representative Jared Huffman has taken the lead in pushing back against the conservative Project 2025 policy agenda.

Noah Abrams

Jul 23, 2024

Shipping channels would narrow on Petaluma River to protect bridge

Proposed replacement of buffers around Petaluma River bridge support piers would narrow safe passage zones for shipping.

Marc Albert

Jul 22, 2024

What's the status on local COVID numbers?

Sonoma County's health officer says there's been 39 COVID-19-caused local deaths in 2024, 15 in the past two months.

Amaray Alvarez

Jul 21, 2024

Bay Area, state officials react to Biden stepping down

North Bay congressman Mike Thompson lauded Biden Sunday for his "steadfast and honest leadership."

Bay City News

Jul 21, 2024

Woman wins Wine Country half marathon for first time

The event raised $62,000 for the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.

Janis Mara/Bay City News

Jul 19, 2024

Petaluma's Minna Stess is set to skate Summer Olympics in Paris.

Stess is following up a third place finish at the 2023 World Championship in park skating with a shot at an Olympic medal.

Noah Abrams

Jul 18, 2024

Sebastopol voters to weigh 1/2-cent sales tax increase in November

Sebastopol council unanimously puts sales tax initiative on ballot.

Marc Albert

Jul 18, 2024

Sonoma residents will face decision on upping the city's sales tax

The half-cent sales tax measure, meant to fund city services like parks and recreation, will go before residents in November.

Noah Abrams

Jul 18, 2024

Windsor ballot measure would trash competitive bidding for garbage contract

Supporters of Measure Q, backed by current hauler, suggest comparing bids may actually be more pricey.

Marc Albert

Jul 17, 2024

Focusing on Mendocino County's Jackson Forest

Created in 1947 to allow sustainable harvesting, the area has been logged repeatedly but currently grows more new trees than are harvested.

Frank Hartzell/Bay City News

Jul 16, 2024

Sonoma County strips park rangers of peace officer status

Sonoma County Regional Parks Rangers will be reclassified as "public officers".

Noah Abrams

Jul 15, 2024

Environmental docs available for comment on Koi Nation casino plan

The county board of supervisors voted to oppose the development after receiving letters of opposition from five other federally recognized tribes in Sonoma County.

Thomas Hughes/Bay City News

Jul 12, 2024

State regulators push for electrification could raise PG&E bills even higher

California Public Utilities Commission opens door for possible additional rate hikes.

Ruth Dusseault and Thomas Hughes/Bay City News

Jul 12, 2024

IOLERO seeks judgement for whistleblower complaint subpoenas

The Sonoma County Sheriff contends the subpoenas violate the Letters of Agreement between IOLERO, the Sheriff's Office, and employee groups.

Noah Abrams

Jul 11, 2024

Can California’s health care providers help solve the state’s homelessness crisis?

Medi-Cal changes have health providers tip-toeing into housing construction.

Marisa Kendall/CalMatters & the Associated Press

Jul 11, 2024

At long last, Petaluma's Helen Putnam Regional Park set to add most of Scott Ranch

Long fought development battle appears headed for amicable resolution.

Marc Albert

Jul 10, 2024

California bracing for the worst as fires burn vastly more acres than last year

CalFire has staffed up and more firefighting planes and firefighters are on the way, but the public must remain aware, vigilant and extremely careful.

Marc Albert

Jul 10, 2024

New airport fuel tank project prompts lawsuit

One of the main flight service companies operating at the airport is suing the county over a new above-ground fuel tank being installed by a competitor.

Marc Albert

Jul 09, 2024

Local white sturgeon fish moves closer to endangered status

Scientists say new water capturing projects are going to directly affect the white sturgeon, which only spawns when river levels are excessively high.

Ruth Dusseault/Bay City News

Jul 05, 2024

Prop 4: $10 billion bond for resilience, wildfire prevention makes ballot

Major projects funded by the bond revenue would include drinking water infrastructure and wildfire prevention.

Thomas Hughes/Bay City News

Jul 03, 2024

Proposed Sebastopol hotel wins three-year extension, builders hope to wait out high interest rates

With permits expiring, planned boutique hotel wins three-year agreement as developers hope financing coalesces.

Marc Albert

Jul 03, 2024

Pacific Gas & Electric says grid holding stable so far

The utility is taking an all hands on deck approach to guard against incidental fires and keep residents powered up during the week long heatwave.

Noah Abrams

Jul 02, 2024

Toll Fire burns 50 acres; firefighters starting to turn the corner on containment

Evacuation orders for zones NPA-E113 and NPA-E103 in Napa County were downgraded to warnings shortly before 5:30 PM.

KRCB Newsroom

Jul 01, 2024

Heat wave could cause blackouts

Utility Pacific Gas & Electric Co. is warning that extreme temperatures and overnight warmth may damage transformers, interrupting power.

Marc Albert

Jun 28, 2024

Environment groups suing feds over vanishing shark

Federal moves to consider listing the tope shark, also called the school shark or soup fin shark, as threatened or endangered stalled in 2022.

Marc Albert

Jun 27, 2024

Santa Rosa City Schools selects new superintendent

Daisy Morales takes over the city's largest district, having last lead Live Oak Elementary District in Santa Cruz.

Noah Abrams

Jun 27, 2024

Rough waters--controversy brewing over riverbank access in Forestville

Kayakers, canoers claim private security keeping people off of public river 'beach.'

Marc Albert

Jun 27, 2024

Little Woods owners will appeal, vow to close park unless rent hike goes through

Owners of a Petaluma mobile home park double down after arbitrator rejects substantial ground rent increases.

Marc Albert

Jun 26, 2024

A new park in Healdsburg? One idea is being floated for the future

Healdsburg-born landscape architect Eric Arneson has for years envisioned a riverfront park to replace the gravel mine on the Russian River Bendway.

Noah Abrams

Jun 24, 2024

Grand Jury: County finances opaque, lax oversight of bond measures, sales tax

A Civil Grand Jury report found spending poorly tracked, with few safeguards against potential misuse.

Marc Albert

Jun 24, 2024

What CA's new indoor heat rules mean for workers

The rule's final approval Thursday capped a dramatic three months of actions that further delayed a regulation the Legislature first called for in 2016.

Jeanne Kuang/CalMatters

Jun 22, 2024

Arbitrator nixes big rent increases sought by mobile home park

Owners sought to triple the monthly charges for parking mobile homes at a Petaluma mobile home park.

Marc Albert

Jun 21, 2024

After pandemic lull, local homelessness rising again

With staggering shelter costs, aid programs ending, more poor people are finding themselves on the streets.

Marc Albert

Jun 19, 2024

Evacuation order lifted for Point Fire

As of Wednesday, the Point Fire -- which started Sunday above Dry Creek Valley near Stewarts Point-Skaggs Springs Road -- was 50% contained.

Aly Brown/Bay City News

Jun 18, 2024

Point Fire Update: Ag Pass activated, poor air quality expected

Smoke from the 10,000 acre Sites Fire in Colusa County has deteriorated air quality in some parts of Sonoma and surrounding counties.

Noah Abrams

Jun 18, 2024

Food justice group ends boycott of Amy's Kitchen

Amy's executives, employees, and the Food Empowerment Project came to a recent agreement, after improved working conditions and communication.

Noah Abrams

Jun 17, 2024

Sunday turns surreal for some in Point Fire's path

KRCB News speaks with some evacuated Dry Creek Valley residents.

Marc Albert

Jun 17, 2024

Evacuation orders issued for wildfire near Lake Sonoma

The vegetation fire sparked around 12:30 pm on Sunday. Smoke from the fire can be smelled and seen across the Bay Area.

KRCB Newsroom

Jun 13, 2024

Innovation and incentives encouraging construction of small affordable homes

Napa County program encouraging ADUs is getting results, and recognition.

Marc Albert

Jun 13, 2024

Supervisors considering reducing housing impact fees

While driving up the cost of construction, reducing thousands of dollars in fees may prove difficult while delivering underwhelming results.

Marc Albert

Jun 13, 2024

Sonoma County Artistry: Petaluma Pete moves on

Longtime downtown Petaluma entertaining is moving to Southern California next month.

Tina Caputo

Jun 12, 2024

Ukrainian winemakers visit Napa Valley to learn how to heal war-ravaged vineyards

The six vintners visited the Grgich Hills Estate winery last week to learn about regenerative organic farming.

Haven Daley & Olga R. Rodriguez/Associated Press

Jun 12, 2024

Millions flowing to Klamath region to boost community and opportunity

Multi-million dollar donations to fund community building grants along the far North Coast.

Marc Albert

Jun 11, 2024

End of an era: famed Napa Valley winemaker Warren Winiarski dies

Warren Winiarski's Napa Valley cabernet sauvignon bested top French wines at a blind tasting in 1976, transforming the reputation of California wine.

Noah Abrams

Jun 11, 2024

CA gig worker law withstands challenge from Uber

More than 1.4 million workers in California do app-based driving and delivery work for big gig companies such as Uber, Lyft, DoorDash and Instacart, according to the industry's latest estimates.

Levi Sumagaysay/CalMatters

Jun 06, 2024

Local libraries bracing for cuts as deficit crisis hits Sacramento

Free summer lunches, park passes, inter-library transfers, all in the crosshairs as officials work to finalize California's budget amid large deficit.

Marc Albert

Jun 04, 2024

Raising children in California? They may have college savings accounts you don't know about

Some already have a growing nest-egg to help cover tuition, and are entirely unaware.

Jacqueline Munis/CalMatters

Jun 03, 2024

Marin gains more oversight over county-line RV camp

Anything outside of RVs may now be confiscated

Marc Albert

Jun 01, 2024

Agreement between Sonoma State students and admin overruled

Acting SSU President Nathan Evans released a new "Path Forward for SSU" and overruled the "points of agreement" made by students and President Lee.

Noah Abrams

May 31, 2024

Rehabilitated pelicans released after weeks of care

Some of the hundreds of brown pelicans found starving along the coast have been successfully treated and released.

Shreya Komar/Bay City News

May 30, 2024

Marin County considering options as rising seas threaten Stinson Beach

Rising seas threatening to turn much of Stinson Beach into west coast Atlantis.

Ruth Dusseault Bay City News

May 29, 2024

Impacts of Measure J likely to be far reaching, even without consensus on just how far

Two recently commissioned reports look at what the economic impacts would be should Measure J pass.

Noah Abrams

May 29, 2024

Healdsburg: Zen-inspired retirement community leading new wave of more personalized senior housing

New Healdsburg retirement community embracing impermanence.

Tony Hicks--Bay City News

May 28, 2024

UC student workers expand strike to two more campuses as they demand amnesty for protestors

Organizing, protests spreading to more University of California campuses

Mikhail Zinshteyn, CalMatters

May 24, 2024

PG&E holding North Coast fire season webinar on Wednesday

Details on hardening infrastructure, precautions and what to expect as fire season nears are part of an interactive talk led by PG&E set for Wednesday.

Marc Albert

May 23, 2024

Higher sales taxes being pursued as Sebastopol faces looming crisis

With few other options, water rates already up, fire departments consolidated, Sebastopol commits to asking voters to lift sales taxes up to half a percent.

Marc Albert

May 21, 2024

CalFresh dollars are matched at farmers markets, but for how much longer?

The much loved Market Match supplemental nutrition program is under threat due to a proposed budget cut by Governor Gavin Newsom.

Noah Abrams

May 20, 2024

Students address SSU president's controversial retirement

Students are calling for the new interim Sonoma State president to honor the agreement made with President Lee.

Noah Abrams

May 17, 2024

California cracked down after a crash killed 13 farmworkers. Why are workers still dying on the road?

Workers are still dying in crashes — in vans current laws don't cover.

Jeanne Kuang/CalMatters

May 16, 2024

Sonoma State president retires following controversial agreement with protesting students

SSU President Mike Lee, in a May 15 message to students and staff, expressed regret for "unintended consequences" from a deal with students.

Noah Abrams

May 15, 2024

Sonoma State encampment to disband as SSU president agrees to divest

Sonoma State administrators have agreed to disclose and financially divest the school from companies and organizations that support and profit from Israel's occupation of Gaza.

Noah Abrams

May 13, 2024

California could gain first indigenous-named marine sanctuary in U.S.

Sanctuary status bans new offshore oil and gas development, disturbing wildlife and historical resources, discharging sewage and more.

Benjamin Purper

May 13, 2024

Clover joins global methane reduction effort

Clover Sonoma, the regional dairy joined a global effort to reduce methane emissions.

Marc Albert

May 10, 2024

Wildfire season is fast approaching - what's the outlook?

State Senator Mike McGuire and Cal Fire Chief Joe Tyler gave an updated look at where the state stands in the effort to protect against wildfires at a virtual town hall this week.

Noah Abrams

May 10, 2024

Federal, state govt's, forestry companies to coordinate, collaborate on shaded fuel breaks

Public agencies, forestry industry partnering, envisioning connected network of shaded fuel breaks.

Marc Albert

May 10, 2024

Forget Sim-City and City Skylines 2, Petaluma holding real world "Plan-fest"

Locals welcomed, if not urged to help shape Petaluma's future.

Marc Albert

May 10, 2024

Cloverdale joins other localities in revising rent control rules for mobile home parks

Cloverdale strengthens tenant rights in mobile home park rule revision.

Marc Albert

May 10, 2024

Petaluma cuts school-zone, downtown speed limits

In bid to reduce injuries and crashes, Petaluma is cutting speed limits in some areas.

Marc Albert

May 10, 2024

Comment period opens as NPS considers removing elk fence from Point Reyes

Elk fence could come down.

Marc Albert

May 09, 2024

Faculty join the ranks of Sonoma State solidarity camp

Faculty are calling on the school to disclose and divest from any financial ties to Israel and are joining students to negotiate with administration.

Noah Abrams

May 07, 2024

KRCB's Wine Beat: Behind the barrel

For centuries, this labor-intensive craft has been passed down through generations—and much of the work is still done by hand.

Tina Caputo

May 07, 2024

Sonoma State students show no sign of leaving

Students say they will remain at the encampment on Person Lawn until the university meets their demands, including disclosure and divestment.

Noah Abrams

May 06, 2024

California colleges agree on how to interpret in-state tuition for undocumented students

Access to state financial aid and in-state tuition can be a critical factor for undocumented students, who are barred from receiving federal financial aid.

Zaidee Stavely/EdSource

May 06, 2024

How Congress is letting die an internet connectivity lifeline for millions

More than 23 million American households, about 45% of all those eligible nationwide, will no longer receive the full subsidies that previously helped them get online.

Aaron Sankin/CalMatters

May 03, 2024

Roseland ready for this year's Cinco de Mayo celebrations

The Cinco de Mayo celebrations held at Mitote Food Park will be celebrating 15 years of the organized event, promising to have elements of a quinceañera.

Noah Abrams

May 02, 2024

Pervasive and harmful, understanding PFAS and how you can limit exposure

The darker side of some miracle chemicals is becoming more visible.

Marc Albert

Apr 30, 2024

Departing Santa Rosa Schools Superintendent shares reflections on time in the role

SRCS Superintendent Anna Trunnell announced this month she will be departing the district after four years, three as superintendent, in order to be closer to her family.

Noah Abrams

Apr 29, 2024

Sonoma State students join growing ranks of campus solidarity camps

Sonoma State Students for Justice in Palestine set up a Palestine solidarity encampment with demands for disclosure and divestment of university holdings "that support and profit from the occupation in Palestine."

Noah Abrams

Apr 26, 2024

What military grade equipment does the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office have? Annual report offers details

Since 2022, law enforcement agencies in California have been required to report their inventory and use of certain military-grade equipment.

Noah Abrams

Apr 26, 2024

Checking in with SRJC's Oak Leaf newsroom

Santa Rosa's community college has an award-winning student-produced newsmedia program.

Greta Mart

Apr 25, 2024

Court ruling could give sardines a better chance to rebound

An environmental lawsuit may lead to big changes for small fish.

Marc Albert

Apr 24, 2024

Petaluma mobile home residents take their fight on the road

Littlewoods Mobile Villa residents traveled from Petaluma to Stockton to protest in front of property management company Harmony Communities.

Noah Abrams

Apr 24, 2024

Uncertainty, overwork and unfilled jobs dominate county budget hearings

Tough choices ahead as Sonoma County elected officials dig in on next year's spending plan

Marc Albert

Apr 23, 2024

California senate supports Berryessa Snow Mountain expansion

Proposals now before Congress expand the monument by 3,900 acres in Lake County.

Steve Milne/CapRadio

Apr 22, 2024

Changes coming to Sonoma County's cannabis tax code

Taxes on cultivation and manufacturing will be eased for the next fiscal year, while retail sales tax will be brought in line with those in local cities.

Noah Abrams

Apr 22, 2024

Sonoma County moves away from embattled homeless services provider

Disaster response and homeless services nonprofit DEMA will continue running Sonoma County's emergency shelter site and Mickey Zane Place on a week-to-week basis.

Noah Abrams

Apr 19, 2024

Voices urging federal disaster declaration grow; salmon restoration efforts continue

Salmon in crisis now, but restoration efforts may spawn a comeback.

Marc Albert

Apr 19, 2024

Sonoma County finalizes much-debated tree ordinances

Exemptions were included for property maintenance, safety and fire defense, and for certified foresters to perform routine work.

Thomas Hughes/Bay City News

Apr 18, 2024

Supervisors ask for closer look at possible impacts of animal ag ballot measure

Skipping other options this week, Sonoma County elected officials order a report on possible effects on county agencies and the community should the measure pass.

Noah Abrams

Apr 18, 2024

Reorganization of Sonoma County bureacracy approved by supervisors

The move shifts Sonoma County's government from a county administrator model, streamlining more day-to-day agency operations under a county executive model.

Noah Abrams

Apr 18, 2024

Remote public comment will continue, despite racist, antisemitic outbursts

Locking neo-Nazis out of public comment would also freeze out locals.

Marc Albert

Apr 18, 2024

Ire among activists as Sebastopol punts Gaza cease-fire resolution yet again

Peace activists infuriated after council declines to take a stand.

Marc Albert

Apr 17, 2024

A lack of parking counters goal of more middle-income housing in Healdsburg

Fears of scarce parking temper Healdsburg's push for growth.

Marc Albert

Apr 16, 2024

Why tortillas sold in California may be forced to add a new ingredient

The legislation would require that producers add 0.7 milligrams of folic acid to every pound of masa.

Ana B. Ibarra/CalMatters

Apr 15, 2024

California requires new homes to have solar panels. Should wildfire victims get a break?

Many of those rebuilding homeowners have ended up on the hook for tens of thousands of dollars, thanks to state laws that require solar panels on new homes — even on those that didn’t have them before they burned down.

Ryan Sabalow/CalMatters

Apr 15, 2024

A bounty of healthy produce for all at heart of Petaluma's volunteer urban farm

Petaluma Bounty is aiming to acquire the three-acre farm property from the current owners to preserve the community farm in perpetuity at the former Stonitsch & Arvold lumber mill site.

Noah Abrams

Apr 13, 2024

Water contamination by PFAS chemicals a growing local concern; additional tests scheduled

Santa Rosa rejected a national PFAS settlement. What happens next?

Marc Albert

Apr 12, 2024

Sebastopol may cease virtual public comments to thwart neo-Nazis

Repeated disruptions of council meetings has Sebastopol considering dumping live public comments via Zoom.

Marc Albert

Apr 11, 2024

Another closure of salmon fisheries exposes state's water politics

Those in the seafood industry say big agriculture is not limited in their water use, but fisheries get hit with constraints.

Ruth Dusseault/Bay City News & Greta Mart

Apr 11, 2024

De La Cruz passing torch at county Equity office; much accomplished, much work remains

Triumphs, transformation and challenges on path to equity in Sonoma County.

Marc Albert

Apr 10, 2024

Feds contributing another $20 million toward fixing State Route 37

Big grant to help protect road, drivers from rising seas, sinking embankment.

Marc Albert

Apr 10, 2024

Calls, home visits, counseling help get students back to school

Interviews with districts show that many excused absences are mental health and illness-related.

Betty Marquez Rosales, Lasherica Thornton & Daniel J. Willis/EdSource

Apr 08, 2024

KRCB's Wine Beat: The sound of wine in the Alexander Valley

The idea was to create a three-dimensional soundscape that would envelop the listener from all angles while telling the story of the ranch and winery.

Tina Caputo

Apr 06, 2024

Parade will go on; Sebastopol finds cash for Apple Blossom festival

City officials say Sebastopol may be unable to offer such largess in the future.

Marc Albert

Apr 05, 2024

Rohnert Park's safe sleeping site closes less than two years after city sanction

The Roberts Lake safe sleeping camp, which began as an unsanctioned homeless encampment, has been vacant since the end of January.

Noah Abrams

Apr 05, 2024

Groundbreaking on new roundabout at Big Bend

Highways 116 and 121 converge at Big Bend, just north of the Sonoma Valley Airport and surrounded by vineyards. The new roundabout should be ready in 2026.

Katy St. Clair/Bay City News

Apr 04, 2024

Sebastopol city council nixes homeless housing on former RV safe parking site

Fears that Sebastopol would be left holding bag if St. Vincent de Paul supportive housing plan falters leads council to pull plug.

Marc Albert

Apr 03, 2024

Delta tunnel supporters, opponents respond to Newsom's updated water plan

"The water system in California was designed for a world that no longer exists," Newsom said.

Aly Brown/Bay City News

Apr 03, 2024

Nominations due soon for local Latinx community awards

Nominations for Los Cien’s annual Puente y Ganas Awards are due on April 8.

Noah Abrams & Greta Mart

Apr 02, 2024

Controversial ballot measure aims to downsize animal farms

The ballot measure is supported by the group Coalition to End Factory Farming, who want to end large-scale concentrated animal feeding operations in Sonoma County.

Ruth Dusseault/Bay City News & Noah Abrams

Apr 01, 2024

Financial backer says CapRadio should merge with Sacramento’s PBS affiliate KVIE

You've heard CapRadio stories on KRCB local newscasts; here's the latest about our news partner in Sacramento.

Chris Nichols/CapRadio

Mar 29, 2024

Bay Area health officials say measles on the rise

Most cases in the U.S. have been among children aged 12 months and older who had not received the MMR vaccine.

Tony Hicks/Bay City News

Mar 28, 2024

County raising hundreds of fees by an average 8%

"This year, you'll see that most fees that are increasing are going up between 5 and 10%. This is a little bit higher than we often have seen."

Marc Albert

Mar 27, 2024

Factory farming ban ballot measure secures needed signatures

If passed, the new regulations would phase out large scale animal agriculture operations over a three year period.

Noah Abrams

Mar 27, 2024

The feds want to study giving cash to renters. Will Californians be included?

The idea of giving cash directly to people in need, known as guaranteed income, is swiftly gaining traction in California.

Marisa Kendall/CalMatters

Mar 27, 2024

Napa County supervisors approve groundwater sustainability work plans

The work plans aim to help the county meet its goal to reduce pumping from the subbasin by 10%.

Aly Brown/Bay City News

Mar 25, 2024

CA is clearing criminal records, including violent crimes, to offer second chances

When the automatic felony expungement begins in July, about 225,000 Californians will qualify, said Californians for Safety and Justice, with more becoming eligible in the future as more time passes after their convictions.

Jeanne Kuang/CalMatters

Mar 25, 2024

Russian River Brewing Company celebrates 20 years of Pliny the Younger

The release of Russian River Brewing Company's most acclaimed ale came late this year, but the lines remained.

Noah Abrams

Mar 23, 2024

Mixing tradition with innovation, local artisans elevate cheese to new heights

It's American cheese, but American Cheese, it is not.

Marc Albert

Mar 20, 2024

Bumpy path ahead as Sebastopol considers tightening belts, raising fees

Sebastopol City Manager Don Schwartz has put together a laundry list of potential fixes for the city of 7,500, which faces average budget deficits estimated at just under $3 million dollars a year---though the next decade.

Marc Albert

Mar 20, 2024

Sebastopol's empty coffers forcing tough choices

"The average shortfall, from the current year through fiscal 2033 is $2.9 million. That's the on-going gap that needs to be closed."

Marc Albert

Mar 20, 2024

Wi-Fi returning to Healdsburg Plaza, more security cams may go up around town

A 10-camera system was estimated to cost $37,500. Councilmembers suggested cameras also be placed at Gibbs Park, which Rodriguez says would need two for effective coverage.

Marc Albert

Mar 19, 2024

Have questions about homelessness? Sonoma County wants to answer them

The March edition of Sonoma County's monthly public web forum on homelessness dives into the basics of the issue.

Noah Abrams/Greta Mart

Mar 19, 2024

Sebastopol faltering under growing deficit

Discussion Tuesday evening to focus on bitter pills to fill funding gap

Marc Albert

Mar 18, 2024

Oyster Cove seeks permission to start grading site ahead of final approvals

Developers warn that without a waiver, they'll lose financing and nothing will get built.

Marc Albert

Mar 18, 2024

Racism declared local public health emergency

"African-Americans have ten years less of a life expectancy in Sonoma County than whites. We've seen a significant increase in the likelihood that Blacks are going to be homeless in Sonoma County.

Marc Albert

Mar 18, 2024

Grifters bilked PG&E customers out of nearly $900,000 last year

photo credit: Marc Albert/KRCBPG&E's Petaluma substation Scams targeting PG&E customers at all time high.

Marc Albert

Mar 18, 2024

Pot in Petaluma? Cannabis regulations getting renewed look in near future

Alterations could come to the city's cannabis regulations as soon as June.

Noah Abrams

Mar 16, 2024

Special water sourcing adds ‘sense of place’ to Napa Valley brewer’s beers

For one North Bay brewer, it’s more about the story of where the water comes from. It’s part of something he calls “origin brewing.”

Tina Caputo

Mar 12, 2024

Petaluma Health Center lays off 32 staff as Covid funds dry up

Petaluma Health Center CEO Pedro Toledo says the move is part of a restructuring to insure the non-profit can continue to sustainably serve patients.

Noah Abrams

Mar 12, 2024

Local farmer commended for eco-conscious, 'regenerative' methods

"Just by managing our land better, in such a way where we are mimicking nature, we have improved water capacity in our pastures, we have improved growth rates in our pastures."

Marc Albert

Mar 12, 2024

Public comment period opens on Shiloh Resort and Casino enviro report

The Koi Nation's proposed casino, resort, and hotel would sit just south of the Windsor town limit on Shiloh Road.

Noah Abrams

Mar 12, 2024

3 retail theft suspects arrested after police chase, crash on 101

The crash snarled traffic on 101 southbound between Cotati and Petaluma Monday afternoon.

Bay City News

Mar 11, 2024

3 Santa Rosa residents suffer minor injuries after plane crash lands

The parachute carried the aircraft down into trees near Yellow Road in Whitethorn in Mendocino County, about 6 miles from the airport.

Bay City News

Mar 08, 2024

CERES moves everything and the kitchen sink following S.A.Y. bankruptcy

Ceres, the non-profit meal service, was forced to vacate their Santa Rosa kitchen and consolidate in Sebastopol and Novato after Social Advocates for Youth filed for bankruptcy.

Noah Abrams

Mar 08, 2024

Last Sausalito 'anchor out' floating home removed from Richardson Bay

As part of the agreement with the state, a small number of vessels will be allowed to remain anchored if they are deemed "seaworthy," at least through October 2026.

Katy St. Clair/Bay City News

Mar 08, 2024

CSU schools struggle to graduate Black students; cultural centers aim to help, but not at SSU

There are currently five Cal State campuses without a designated Black resource center; Sonoma State is one of those.

Briana Mendez-Padilla/CalMatters

Mar 07, 2024

Santa Rosa show spotlights emerging women artists

Artist Jacklyn Finkle has command of that other artistic challenge: knowing when to put down the brushes. Her vibrant oil pastel 'Make Lemonade' is creating something of a splash.

Marc Albert

Mar 06, 2024

Who's going to represent Sonoma County in Sacramento? Multiple races still to be decided

The races to replace State Senator Bill Dodd and Assembly member Jim Wood are still too close to call.

Noah Abrams

Mar 06, 2024

New plan for long vacant Cotati lot

Current plans call for 177 apartments to rise in six buildings across the nearly eight-acre site.

Marc Albert

Mar 06, 2024

State inviting crabbers to test rope-less gear

The aim is to reduce or eliminate fatalities of whales trapped in crab trap lines.

Marc Albert

Mar 06, 2024

2nd Assembly District race too close to call on election night

The large majority of votes in the district are split amongst a crowded field of Democrats.

Noah Abrams/Marc Albert

Mar 06, 2024

Early results show sales tax for fire service with sizable lead

Measure H appears to have gained the upper hand with voters.

Marc Albert

Mar 04, 2024

First farmworker resource fair held in Windsor

The County of Sonoma organized event aimed to connect agricultural laborers with resources from government agencies and community organizations.

Noah Abrams

Mar 04, 2024

Key races: Assembly District 2, Santa Rosa to the Oregon border

A total of $3.69 million has been invested in this race, $2.49 million was contributed directly to the candidates and $1.20 million in outside spending.

CalMatters

Mar 03, 2024

Getting paid to go to school? California community colleges try it out

Some students will receive monthly payments of nearly $2,000 in a new kind of guaranteed income program.

Adam Echelman/CalMatters

Mar 01, 2024

Family farmers, researchers, experts, gather for small farm conference

SRJC's Shone Farm hosted a day of workshops as part of the week long programming for the 36th edition of the California Small Farms Conference

Noah Abrams

Mar 01, 2024

Brief relief from soaring utility bills on the way

Governor Gavin Newsom Thursday announced the credits will appear on bills in April, automatically.

Marc Albert

Mar 01, 2024

Unpermitted short-term rental saga ends in $500,000 settlement

County officials described settlement talks as "prolonged," but the $500,000 settlement amount covers expenses.

Marc Albert

Feb 29, 2024

Santa Rosa City Schools become latest district to green light staff cuts

The district, like others in Sonoma County and around California, is struggling to balance budgets with big drops in state funding forecast.

Noah Abrams

Feb 28, 2024

Supervisors ponder impacts, reaction after three employers announce plans to shutter

"I think the county can do certain things, but the county cannot keep a business in business,"

Marc Albert

Feb 28, 2024

If passed, Proposition 1 spells tradeoffs for Sonoma County

A number of community-based mental health and prevention programs could be on the chopping block if Prop. 1 passes.

Greta Mart and Noah Abrams

Feb 27, 2024

Staying the "Course-y"? 3rd District incumbent supervisor runs for re-election

Chris Coursey, current 3rd District Supervisor, was first elected to the seat in 2020, ousting then Supervisor Shirlee Zane.

Noah Abrams

Feb 27, 2024

Healdsburg set to stay course for SMART station location

Healdsburg’s historic train depot has long been eyed as the new home for SMART’s sole stop in the city when the North Bay's commuter train line is eventually extended north.

Noah Abrams

Feb 27, 2024

Ecological revival returning life to Laguna, removing contaminants, easing flood danger

Once a thriving wetland, history hasn't been kind to the Laguna de Santa Rosa.

Marc Albert

Feb 26, 2024

Petaluma set to remove another housing roadblock

Much of the intention is to remove some of the guesswork around winning approvals for a project.

Marc Albert

Feb 26, 2024

Hermosillo running for 1st District supervisorial seat

Rebecca Hermosillo, a district representative for North Bay Congressman Mike Thompson, has the backing of outgoing incumbent Susan Gorin.

Noah Abrams

Feb 26, 2024

Why does California elect local judges?

If you want to see how much money a candidate has raised and from whom you can check county elections office websites, where they're required to file disclosure forms.

Sameea Kamal/CalMatters

Feb 26, 2024

Disagreement over what to teach kids in public schools

A new study by USC researchers finds there are deep partisan divides regarding LGBTQ+ inclusion and racial justice in K-12 curriculum.

Monica Velez/EdSource

Feb 26, 2024

Could Santa Rosa's ten school districts become one? Report says it's possible

While an independent analysis finds that nine state-mandated criteria would be met, it says a serious fiscal plan would need to be in place for unification.

Noah Abrams

Feb 23, 2024

Gaza still a smoldering topic, despite failure of local cease-fire resolution

"Long term peace cannot be successfully negotiated while bombs are dropping from either side."

Marc Albert

Feb 21, 2024

Santa Rosa Councilman Rogers touts local roots in race for 2nd Assembly seat

Chris Rogers, city councilor and former Santa Rosa Mayor, has wracked up a long list of endorsements including State Senate leader Mike McGuire.

Noah Abrams

Feb 21, 2024

Striking professors accept tentative CSU contract

Recent economic trends have eroded the value of pay.

Marc Albert

Feb 20, 2024

Yurok leader Myers brings unique experience to Assembly race

Frankie Myers, Vice Chairman of the Yurok Tribe, is the only tribal leader running in the crowded field for Assembly District 2.

Noah Abrams

Feb 20, 2024

West Sonoma County high schools closed from fallen tree

District officials expect both Analy and Laguna High to re-open for class Wednesday.

Noah Abrams/Bay City News

Feb 20, 2024

Report confirms difficult, downward trends in local fishing

In the feast or famine world of commercial fishing, last year had plenty of both.

Marc Albert

Feb 20, 2024

Grounded fishing boat response near Bodega Bay pivots to salvage operation

The Coast Guard attempted to remove all diesel from the vessel, but now says such operations are unsafe due to the weather and the degraded condition of the boat.

Katy St. Clair/Bay City News & Greta Mart

Feb 20, 2024

Cal State faculty approve new salary agreement

76% of California Faculty Association members, which represents about 29,000 professors and lecturers, voted in favor of the agreement.

Ashley A. Smith/EdSource

Feb 16, 2024

'Outsider,' now supervisor Ted Williams seeks to replace Wood in Assembly

A former firefighter, Mendocino County Supervisor Ted Williams now seeks a seat in the state Assembly.

Marc Albert

Feb 16, 2024

Greer vows to champion education, rural communities in Assembly bid

"I think sometimes government gets in the way of our lives."

Marc Albert

Feb 16, 2024

Voters weighing more robust fire services against sales tax increase

Measure H on the March 5th primary election ballot seeks to do a few things: staff each engine with three firefighters, replace waning participation in volunteer units with professionals, improve response times and devote more resources to fire prevention among other goals.

Marc Albert

Feb 14, 2024

Napa County considers ordinance aimed at foodware waste

Food sellers would be required to use reusable or compostable items.

Bay City News

Feb 13, 2024

Last apple processor in Sonoma County plans to shutter

Manzana Products, the 101-year-old apple processor in Graton, recently announced plans to move operations to Washington state.

Noah Abrams

Feb 12, 2024

Deep cuts to staff greenlit at Sonoma Valley schools

Sonoma Valley Unified School District trustees voted to eliminate 35 full time teaching and classified positions due to budget constraints.

Noah Abrams

Feb 12, 2024

Voters may soon decide $1 billion offshore wind bond

Humboldt County has plans to build a port expansion project.

Alejandro Lazo/CalMatters

Feb 09, 2024

Candidate forum as Medina challenges Coursey for county supervisor seat

The Sonoma County chapter of the League of Women Voters hosted the 90-minute forum.

Greta Mart and Marc Albert

Feb 09, 2024

Primary election coming up March 5; Sonoma County voters getting ballots this week

California’s primary election is coming up on March 5, and ballots are arriving in Sonoma County mailboxes this week.

Greta Mart

Feb 08, 2024

Sonoma County Democrat sworn in as California Senate leader

The Healdsburg Democrat listed housing and homelessness, fixing the home insurance market and fending off the impacts of climate change as his top priorities.

Nicole Nixon/CapRadio & Sophie Austin and Tran Nguyen/Associated Press/Report for America

Feb 07, 2024

Wine consumption is declining. So what's the wine industry doing about it?

Recent data from NielsenIQ shows that consumers are increasingly drinking less wine, swapping their glasses of pinot and chardonnay for cocktails or beer, or even nonalcoholic drinks.

Tina Caputo

Feb 07, 2024

Hungry sea otters are helping save California’s marshlands from erosion

A Sonoma State University marine ecologist co-authored the new study published this week in Nature.

Christina Larson/AP

Feb 07, 2024

Troubled robotaxi service faces another round of public ridicule in regulatory hearing

The judge didn’t set a timetable for resolving the matter.

Michael Liedtke/AP

Feb 05, 2024

Atmospheric river wallops Sonoma County over the weekend

Rain gauges saw as much as six and half inches over the weekend as high winds brought down trees and power lines across Sonoma County.

Noah Abrams

Feb 04, 2024

What is an atmospheric river?

The meteorological phenomenon known as 'atmospheric rivers' has a significant impact on the frequency and severity of floods and droughts in the Bay Area of Northern California. Advanced forecasting techniques currently being developed to monitor these storms could mitigate the impact of floods while preserving the…

Darren LaShelle

Feb 01, 2024

Salmon fleet foundering with no season, promised financial aid still outstanding

"When your entire community, your entire industry is belly up, it's really hard to support each other."

Marc Albert

Feb 01, 2024

Mixed reaction for Santa Rosa 'transit-oriented development' proposal

Conceptual plans call for 672 apartments spread among 25 three-story buildings, along with 100 single family homes and commercial space.

Marc Albert

Feb 01, 2024

CA governor vows multi-pronged salmon restoration efforts

Newsom is doubling down on dam removal, calling attention to efforts underway to remove several obsolete dams on the Klamath River.

Marc Albert

Jan 31, 2024

Sand bags fill up as rain comes down across Sonoma County

All nine cities and the county have opened sand bag filling stations for residents to protect against the deluge.

Noah Abrams

Jan 30, 2024

Former SDC open space lands getting much needed attention

State Parks staff, Cal Fire, and contractors are getting started right away with stewardship work on parts of the 650 acres of open space transferred from the SDC to California State Parks control on January 4th.

Noah Abrams

Jan 29, 2024

What's happened since CA cut home solar payments? Demand has plunged 80%

The state Public Utilities Commission in late 2022 slashed by about 75% the rate that utilities pay homeowners with new solar panels when they sell surplus power to the grid.

Julie Cart/CalMatters

Jan 26, 2024

KRCB's Wine Beat: Sober hospitality in wine country

Cocktail bars, restaurants and even wineries in Napa and Sonoma are welcoming a new type of tourist – the sober-curious kind.

Tina Caputo

Jan 25, 2024

How accessory dwelling units are giving rise to new cities of longevity

In-law houses, garage buildouts, attic and basement additions are all increasing in numbers since the California Legislature passed over a dozen bills to encourage their production.

Ruth Dusseault/Bay City News

Jan 25, 2024

Napa County supervisors ok sale of fairgounds, speedway to Calistoga

According to the county, the sale "aligns with the historical uses of the property."

Katy St. Clair/Bay City News

Jan 25, 2024

Park owners battle mobile home tenants as arbitration continues

The virtual hearing will decide a dispute over rent hikes at Youngstown Mobile Home Park. No ruling is expected for weeks.

Marc Albert

Jan 24, 2024

Little butterfly gets big boost from new restoration effort

The endangered Behren's Silverspot Butterfly was historically found between Salt Point State Park and the town of Mendocino. A new restoration project aims to help the species survive.

Noah Abrams

Jan 24, 2024

Full calendar forces Sonoma County supervisors to choose priorities

Sme supervisors urging action on one of the top complaints from residents---noise.

Marc Albert

Jan 23, 2024

Sonoma State, CSU faculty end historic strike after one day

After only a day on the picket line, the California Faculty Association and the California State University system have tentatively agreed to a new contract, bringing the 23-campus strike to an end.

Noah Abrams

Jan 23, 2024

Sheriff's office rejects claims it's upped cooperation with ICE

"That is not correct, we have always followed the guidelines of SB-54 and continue to do so," Dillion said.

Marc Albert

Jan 22, 2024

Sonoma State faculty join CSU wide strike to start semester

A tentative agreement has been reached to end the system wide strike after faculty at the Rohnert Park campus and all other CSU's walked off the job to start the spring semester.

Noah Abrams

Jan 22, 2024

Heavy rain brings downed trees, flooded roads

The Guerneville School District in Sonoma County closed on Monday due to localized flooding.

Bay City News

Jan 19, 2024

Local foothold of Mediterranean Oak Borer rings alarm bells

The Town of Windsor is dealing with the invasive beetle with a mix of tactics, and other municipalities are taking note.

Noah Abrams

Jan 19, 2024

With talks at impasse, faculty prepare for weeklong walkout

"It's an unfortunate situation because none of us are wanting to go on strike, but we've reached a series of impasses..."

Marc Albert

Jan 18, 2024

Healdsburg home hosts First Lady Jill Biden for fundraiser

The nation's First Lady, Jill Biden, touched down in Santa Rosa for a brief visit to Sonoma County Thursday afternoon for a fundraiser as part the President's re-election campaign.

Noah Abrams

Jan 18, 2024

Series of 3 storms forecast to douse North Bay this weekend

Be prepared for the rapid rise of rivers and streams along with minor "nuisance" flooding across the region, says the NWS.

Marc Albert/KRCB/Kiley Russell/Bay City News

Jan 18, 2024

Healdsburg pondering moves to bring more housing

"The impact of that would be that we could potentially see some actual, market-rate multi-family housing built in Healdsburg."

Marc Albert

Jan 17, 2024

Sonoma County DA's fentanyl ad features fake storyline

DiNardo said 'Lindsey’s Story' never aired on the radio, and admits it was fabricated.

Brian Krans/CA Newsroom

Jan 15, 2024

Advocates urge Biden Administration to use powers to expand Berryessa monument

The expansion involves a swath of land excluded from the monument’s original designation in 2015.

Manola Secaira/CapRadio

Jan 15, 2024

10 inches of snow falls on Sierra, North Bay gets most rain

Up to 5.5 inches of rain fell around Mount Tamalpais over a 48-hour period.

Bay City News

Jan 12, 2024

Plans for new Santa Rosa cell tower frays neighbor's nerves

A Santa Rosa Planning Commission meeting took a heated turn as some residents vented frustration over plans for a new cell phone tower.

Noah Abrams

Jan 12, 2024

Living peacefully amidst mountain lions

"They prey on deer. They leave those carcasses for other, lower predators, soils are enriched and it really does effect the overall quality of the landscape and water quality and the biodiversity in general."

Marc Albert

Jan 12, 2024

Commercial crab fishery soon opens south of Sonoma-Mendo line

The state agency postponed the opening of the crab season late last year because of high numbers of migrating humpback whales spotted off the California coast.

Bay City News

Jan 10, 2024

Cotati calls for ceasefire and end to Gaza in conflict

Cotati, with a population of about 7,500, is the first city in Sonoma County to officially call for a permanent ceasefire and peace between Palestinians and Israelis.

Noah Abrams

Jan 10, 2024

Supervisors talk lofty goals, but mundane needs may eclipse

Nearly every department head told supervisors that they face challenges both recruiting and retaining staffers. What once were considered solid salaries, no longer measure up.

Marc Albert

Jan 10, 2024

CSU faculty union vows to strike over final pay offer

The breakdown in negotiations was consistent with the tenor of relations between the two camps, which has been marked by frustration and a lack of trust.

Mikhail Zinshteyn/CalMatters

Jan 08, 2024

Local youth could lose shelter in latest nonprofit vs feds conflict

Changing regulations have turned a locally supported youth home into a white elephant.

Marc Albert

Jan 08, 2024

EdSource: CA education issues to watch in 2024

A 'fiscal cliff' is coming, due to the expiration of billions in federal Covid relief, declining enrollment in nearly three-quarters of districts, and a leveling off from record state funding.

John Fensterwald and Yuxuan Xie/EdSource

Jan 06, 2024

A look at what's next as Sebastopol safe-parking nears end of the road

On March 3rd, the lot is set to close permanently---to make way for permanent supportive housing for people with little if any income.

Marc Albert

Jan 05, 2024

Jack London State Park adds hundreds of SDC open space acres

Some 750 acres in all will transfer from the Sonoma Developmental Center into State Park control as an addition to Jack London State Historic Park.

Noah Abrams

Jan 03, 2024

California farm animal cruelty law takes full effect

The pork industry appealed Prop 12 to the U.S. Supreme Court, which upheld states' right to regulate the meat industry.

Suzanne Potter/CA News Service

Jan 03, 2024

Mendocino National Forest grows by nearly thousand acres

A large tract of oak woodland hills were added to the national forest boundary after a transfer from the Wilderness Land Trust.

Noah Abrams

Jan 02, 2024

What parents of English learners need to know

If a language other than English is spoken in the home, the school is required to assess the student's level of English within 30 days after enrollment by giving them a test.

Zaidee Stavely/EdSource

Dec 31, 2023

Fire danger opening training, job opportunities

Fire settlement funds helping train crews for important work reducing vulnerability of power lines to future wildfire.

Marc Albert

Dec 29, 2023

Storm kicking up big waves to deliver deluge Friday evening

Winds are expected to reach as high as 30 mph, with gusts to 50 mph along the coast and over mountain ridges.

Marc Albert

Dec 28, 2023

Food bank use on the rise in Sonoma County heading into 2024

The Redwood Empire Food Bank CEO David Goodman says thousands more are turning to food bank aid than did in 2022 on average.

Noah Abrams

Dec 28, 2023

Massive waves pounding coast

Surging waves, associated with the system have already forced mandatory evacuations.

Marc Albert

Dec 27, 2023

Pressing CA universities to repatriate thousands of Native American remains and artifacts

Vast collections of Native remains and artifacts are still being held illegally in California's public university systems.

Amelia Wu & Helena San Roque/CalMatters

Dec 27, 2023

Big changes may be on the way for North Bay mass transit

A comprehensive revamp could reduce trip times, making transit a viable alternative to vehicular travel and not just the choice of those with no alternative.

Marc Albert