The Cultural, Recreational and Environmental Planning Section undertakes a broad range of tasks required under various environmental laws and regulations. It is responsible for overseeing all DWR activities pertaining to or affecting cultural resources and recreation opportunities in compliance with CEQA and NEPA guidelines. Currently the primary focus for cultural resources and recreation staff is to lead their respective technical work groups through the Oroville FERC relicensing effort.

Other cultural resources responsibilities include coordination with Native American communities, archaeological surveys for projects from all divisions within DWR, and assistance in the preparation of environmental compliance documents. Document review for local and other state agencies is also a cultural resources assignment.

Recreation-related activities include technical assistance on fishery issues at the State Water Project's Upper Feather facilities, contractual issues related to the Davis-Grunsky Program, and coordinating current Section activities with the Department's Statewide Recreation Planning and Implementation Program.

In addition to cultural and recreational tasks, staff in the section provide environmental planning and evaluation expertise on a number of issues, including those related to Swainson’s Hawk issues in the Central Valley. Staff also represents the Department on a number of environmental and land-use planning committees that have ecological implications for DWR programs and projects. Environmental clearances for encroachment permits are provided by staff, as well.