On the calendar today …
- MEETING: Wildlife Conservation Board beginning at 10am. Agenda items include discussion and selection of a new Board Chairman and presentations on Cedar Creek Hatchery Dam removal, Marshall Ranch flow enhancmement; Van Norden Meadow restoration, and other restoration projects. Click here for the full agenda and remote access instructions.
- PUBLIC MEETING: California Advisory Committee on Salmon and Steelhead Trout from 10am to 3pm. Agenda items include CACSST Membership and Peer Review Committee (PRC) Nominations; CDFW Updates; Update on CA Salmonid Monitoring Projects (CMP) funded with Pacific Coastal Salmon Recovery Funds (PCSRF); SoCal Steelhead Listing Status Review; Feather River Hatchery In-River Release Strategies; and 2021 Pre-Spawn Mortality Estimates for CV Salmon Runs. Click here for the full agenda and remote access instructions.
- WEBINAR: A Watershed Approach to Drought, Fires, and Flood from 10am to 11:30am. Sustainable Conservation will hold a webinar titled, Climate Resilience from the Ground Up series, A Watershed Approach to Drought, Fires, and Flood. Panelists will share their expertise on river restoration, sustainable groundwater management, and indigenous ecological knowledge and practices as they explore how nature-based solutions can boost California’s climate resilience. Click here to register.
- WEBINAR: Mapping climate change refugia for species conservation from 10:30am to 12:00pm. Presented by: Julia Michalak, PhD, a research scientist in the School of Environmental and Forest Sciences at the University of Washington. Click here to register.
In California water news today …
In an era of drought, an obscure water contract is pitting California farmers against each other
“This summer is not going to be easy for Matt Watkins. The 39-year-old farmer runs a citrus operation in Tulare County, on the southeast side of California’s Central Valley, and he irrigates his trees using water from a federal canal system. Earlier this year, the federal government informed farmers in his area that it would be delivering only 15 percent of a typical year’s water allotment, thanks to a severe regional drought that has sapped the reservoirs and rivers that are supposed to replenish the canals. … About 100 miles away, on the northwest side of the Central Valley, the situation could not be more different. Even during an unprecedented drought, the almond and pistachio farmers around the city of Los Banos will get around 75 percent of a normal year’s water, far more than almost any other group of growers in California. These farmers grow many of the same crops as the farmers on the southeast side, and the water they use comes from the same canal system. Yet while Watkins has almost no water, these farmers have plenty. … ” Read more from The Grist here: In an era of drought, an obscure water contract is pitting California farmers against each other
State funding to retire valley farmland could more than double under Gov. Newsom’s proposed budget
“A state program aimed at retiring and repurposing farmland could get $60 million – more than doubling its current funding – under Gov. Newsom’s proposed budget. The Multibenefit Land Repurposing Program was created with $50 million from the 2021 state budget. … A state law has taken effect and will curb groundwater usage to bring aquifers back to sustainable levels by 2040. But for that to happen, some estimates are that nearly one million acres of farmland in the valley will need to come out of production. The California Department of Conservation oversees the repurposing program, meant to incentivize growers to retire farmland and help transition it to other uses. … ” Read more from SJV Water here: State funding to retire valley farmland could more than double under Gov. Newsom’s proposed budget
Self-Help Enterprises and EDF partner to support California Department of Conservation in coordination and peer learning for multibenefit land repurposing program
“Self-Help Enterprises and Environmental Defense Fund have been selected by the California Department of Conservation to coordinate technical assistance and outreach for the state’s new Multibenefit Land Repurposing Program. The Multibenefit Land Repurposing Program was created by the state last year with an initial $50 million in funding to help rural communities and the agricultural sector balance groundwater supply and demand, as required by the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act, while creating new benefits for communities and ecosystems. Working together as co-chairs of the “statewide support entity” for the program, SHE and EDF will provide broad support to groundwater sustainability agencies and other grantees to help achieve program goals. … ” Read more from the Environmental Defense Fund here: Self-Help Enterprises and EDF partner to support California Department of Conservation in coordination and peer learning for multibenefit land repurposing program
California Farm Water Coalition warns domestic food supply in peril with state cutting water
“The California Farm Water Coalition issued a dire statement Tuesday warning that California’s agriculture industry and food supply is in peril because of restricted agriculture water supplies. “Today’s State Water Board emergency water conservation regulation continues to demonstrate how serious this year’s drought is. Water conservation measures are reaching farther and farther into our communities and now go beyond the water supply cuts felt by California farms and rural communities earlier this year.” The California Farm Water Coalition represents agriculture water suppliers, water districts, agribusiness, farmers, as well as the supporting agribusinesses such as farm equipment suppliers, tractor manufacturers, and the like. ... ” Read more from the California Globe here: California Farm Water Coalition warns domestic food supply in peril with state cutting water
California just adopted new, tougher water restrictions: What you need to know
“California water regulators strengthened the state’s drought rules this week, ordering local suppliers to take steps to reduce water usage to stretch limited supplies this summer. Gov. Gavin Newsom warned that more stringent statewide water restrictions could come if the state doesn’t make more progress on conservation soon. Acting on an order from Newsom, the State Water Resources Control Board voted to adopt emergency drought regulations that require water suppliers to activate their local drought plans to prepare for a shortage of up to 20%. Those water-saving measures vary for each area and are based on each city or water agency’s drought plan. As part of the new rules, the state also banned the use of drinking water for irrigating grass that is purely decorative at businesses and in common areas of subdivisions and homeowners associations. … ” Read more from the LA Times here: California just adopted new, tougher water restrictions: What you need to know
Delta water crisis linked to California’s racist past, tribes and activists say
“Tribes and environmental groups are challenging how the state manages water in the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta, a major source for much of California, arguing the deterioration of the aquatic ecosystem has links to the state’s troubled legacy of racism and oppression of Native people. A group of activists and Indigenous leaders is demanding that the state review and update the water quality plan for the Delta and San Francisco Bay, where fish species are suffering, algae blooms have worsened and climate change is adding to the stresses. The tribes and environmental groups submitted a petition to the State Water Resources Control Board demanding the state change its approach and adopt science-based standards that ensure adequate flows in the Delta to improve water quality and sustain imperiled fish, including species that are at risk of extinction. … ” Read more from the LA Times here: Delta water crisis linked to California’s racist past, tribes and activists say
Assemblyman Gray responds to latest water grab legislation
“Assemblymember Adam Gray, D-Merced, took the unusual step Tuesday of submitting a “hostile amendment” to Assembly Bill 2639 which, if enacted, would force Northern San Joaquin Valley irrigation districts to give up enormous amounts of water used by residents in their homes and farmers in their fields. “Environmental extremists are addicted to San Joaquin Valley water, and they are tired of waiting for their next fix,” Gray said in reference to AB 2639, written by Assemblymember Bill Quirk, D-Hayward. “My constituents won’t be sacrificial lambs.” Quirk’s bill achieves the goals of environmental lobbying groups who want to require the State Water Resources Control Board to adopt the flawed Bay-Delta water plan. The Board’s plan would force Northern San Joaquin Valley irrigation districts to more than double “unimpaired” flows on the Stanislaus, Tuolumne, and Merced rivers, sending roughly half of their flows into the Delta. … ” Read more from the Merced County Times here: Assemblyman Gray responds to latest water grab legislation
‘Damtastic!’ Newsom calls for Beaver Restoration Program
“Sonoma wildlife conservationists had one word to describe Gov. Gavin Newsom’s proposed new Beaver Restoration program: “Damtastic!” Newsom floated the program as part of a May 13 presentation of his revised 2022-2023 fiscal budget. Pledging $1.67 million this year and $1.44 million in years thereafter, Newsom said the funds would go toward the Department of Fish and Wildlife’s efforts in developing “a comprehensive beaver management plan.” In the budget proposal, Newsom described beaver as “an untapped, creative climate solving hero” that helps prevent the loss of biodiversity. ... ” Read more from the Sonoma Index-Tribune here: ‘Damtastic!’ Newsom calls for Beaver Restoration Program
Senator Wiener’s legislation to ensure public schools and state agencies have safe drinking water passes the Senate
“Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco)’s Senate Bill 1144, the Safe and Efficient Water Act, passed the Senate by a vote of 35-1. It will now head to the Assembly for policy committee hearings. SB 1144 requires public schools and state agencies to complete a water quality and efficiency assessment on their facilities. This bill ensures our public schools and state agencies have safe, drinkable water. Far too many school children and other California residents currently lack access to clean water. Under SB 1144, the water systems at public schools and state agencies must undergo testing to determine the presence of lead and Legionella. It will also require schools and agencies to test their water systems for water use efficiency. If any plumbing fixture is found to contain levels of contaminants beyond the legal limits, remediation methods such as filters, testing, or full replacement is expected at the earliest practice time, subject to funding. If any fixture or appliance is found to use more water than the current standards for water efficiency, the operating agency must replace the fixture with a more efficient equivalent at the earliest practical time, subject to funding. … ” Read more from Senator Weiner’s office here: Senator Wiener’s legislation to ensure public schools and state agencies have safe drinking water passes the Senate
VIDEO: Restoring salmon on the San Joaquin during three years of drought
“A legal settlement in 2006 created the San Joaquin River Restoration Program to reestablish the spring-run Chinook salmon population that once thrived there. The program has created a native population through careful breeding and water management. Towns Burgess, lead fish biologist with the restoration program, explains how it has been operating through three years of drought and details upcoming projects anticipated to ease salmon migration in the future.” Watch video at SJV Water here (7:52): VIDEO: Restoring salmon on the San Joaquin during three years of drought
California moves to curb harmful tire pollutant collecting in Bay, threatening wildlife
“If you think about the pollution your car causes, chances are you’re not thinking about the tires. And probably even less about a faraway creek, where a Coho Salmon is dying. But researchers at the University of Washington and elsewhere have spent years documenting the link. “We’d be there for hours watching this fish, you know, trying to survive. And so it’s, it’s quite sad. The fish just look like they’re suffocating in the water,” explains Prof. Ed Kolodziej, Ph.D.They say as the rubber wears away from car tires during everyday driving, it spreads tiny micro particles, including a destructive chemical called 6PPD. Often their path leads to storm drains and creeks and ultimately into the Bay. … ” Read more from KGO here: California moves to curb harmful tire pollutant collecting in Bay, threatening wildlife
Energy, Natural Resources Subcommittee holds hearings on Feinstein water bills
“The Senate Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on Water and Power today held a hearing on two bills introduced by Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.): the STREAM Act and the Canal Conveyance Capacity Restoration Act. “I want to make one point here today, it’s this: California, Arizona and other Western states cannot survive without improving our water infrastructure. I know that Senators Kelly and Sinema, my cosponsors on the STREAM Act, will agree with me. And here’s the reason for the challenge: Scientists projects that with climate change, the Colorado River will lose one-third of its flow on average within a generation. That is more than 5 million acre-feet, or enough water for 30 million people. That would be gone. … ” Read more from Senator Feinstein’s office here: Energy, Natural Resources Subcommittee holds hearings on Feinstein water bills
Tech helps map and manage groundwater in California
“To better understand and sustainably manage the groundwater in the state, one California agency has embarked on a project conducting airborne electromagnetic (AEM) surveys, using helicopters towing a huge loop of instruments. The effort to improve groundwater management in the state is not a new one, and following the passage of the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA), tech has driven the conversation. While online maps have improved understanding, the Department of Water Resources (DWR)’s project using AEM project aims to further these efforts and support long-term sustainability. California has historically faced drought-related challenges, and this year, drought conditions are impacting farmers in Central Valley, causing farmers to rely on depleted groundwater supplies. … ” Read more from Gov Tech here: Tech helps map and manage groundwater in California
Weighing the consequences of losing carbon-free energy in California
“Old environmental arguments over the consequences of nuclear power had seemed almost resolved in California. Antinuclear sentiment was intensified by the 33-year succession of accidents, from Three Mile Island in 1978 to Chernobyl in 1986 to Fukushima in 2011, severely diminished their appeal. California was getting ready to wave goodbye to its last nuclear plant. The political realities of 2022 and the need to reduce carbon emissions might change things. The two units of the 2,240-megawatt Diablo Canyon Nuclear Plant were headed for the scrap heap in 2024 and 2025, its owner, the investor-owned utility PG&E, announced in 2016. The California Public Utilities Commission confirmed the decision in 2018. But the new chance to tap into $6 billion in federal funds earmarked for fixing existing nuclear plants prompted Gov. Gavin Newsom to say, in effect, “Wait a minute.” The reason? ... ” Continue reading at & the West here: Weighing the consequences of losing carbon-free energy in California
In commentary today …
Will Gov. Newsom ever require mandatory water cuts?
The Mercury News editorial board writes, “The problem with empty threats is, after a while, people just stop listening. When it comes to water usage, Gov. Gavin Newsom is learning that lesson the hard way. Newsom on Monday urged Californians to cut water consumption or face mandatory water restrictions as the state heads into its third summer of severe drought. If you think you’ve heard that ultimatum before, you’re right. Newsom’s warning marked the fourth time in 11 months that he has threatened to impose mandatory water cuts. How have Californians responded? … ” Continue reading at the Mercury News here: Will Gov. Newsom ever require mandatory water cuts?
Water woes a long time coming
Tyler Ribeiro, a fourth-generation dairy farmer, writes, “Is drip irrigation the reason California is running out of water? I had that question posed to me the other day and it has stuck with me ever since. Water in California is getting more and more scarce, and everyone is starting to point fingers, blaming and criticizing neighbors for being the cause of the drought. It has been apparent, as of late, that as the water scarcity conversation rises to the surface, people want to simply blame one thing and not look at the whole picture. To fully understand where we are going, it is important to remember where we came from. For this conversation, let’s go back 150 years, back when times were simple, but the work was hard. … ” Read more from Hoard’s Dairyman here: Water woes a long time coming
The Abundance Choice, Part 7: An environmentalist juggernaut
Edward Ring, a contributing editor and senior fellow with the California Policy Center, writes, “Environmentalists in California, who constitute much of the vanguard of environmentalism in the world, have normalized extremism. The solutions they’ve proposed to supposedly save the planet, and the premises they’ve convinced millions of people to accept as beyond debate, constitute one of the greatest threats – if not the greatest threat – to modern civilization today. It is these environmentalists that are themselves the extremists, not the common sense skeptics who question their edicts, or the beleaguered citizens trying to survive their mandates. The power of the environmentalist juggernaut, or, to be more precise, what has become an environmentalist industrial complex, almost defies description. Their grip on the media, as we have seen in the previous installment, is near absolute. … ” Continue reading at the California Globe here: The Abundance Choice, Part 7: An environmentalist juggernaut
Welcome to the real Hotel California where endless water use is a mirage
Dennis Wyatt, editor of the Manteca Bulletin, writes, “Leave the water running while you brushed your teeth this morning? If you didn’t open the faucet all the way and brushed your teeth thoroughly perhaps you sent a cup or so of water down the drain while you got the job done. No big deal, right? It is only a cup of water. But if every one of the 88,000 people in Manteca did the same you’re talking about 5,500 gallons a day. It happens to be the per capita water use in one day for about 140 people. … ” Read more from the Manteca Bulletin here: Welcome to the real Hotel California where endless water use is a mirage
In regional water news and commentary today …
NORTH COAST
Shasta Lake levels will drop, but not as drastically as 2021
“Each year, Lake Shasta brings in locals and tourists from all over, especially for Memorial Day weekend. Businesses on Lake Shasta are dealing with low lake levels and short staffing but despite the challenges, they still expect a good holiday turnout. “Already, phones are ringing off the hook, so we’re going to be very busy,” Lake Shasta Caverns employee Susan Angle said. … ” Read more from KRCR here: Shasta Lake levels will drop, but not as drastically as 2021
SACRAMENTO VALLEY
Local water providers in the Sacramento Valley support emergency conservation regulations
Jim Peifer, Regional Water Authority (RWA), writes, “We support the State Water Board’s action this week as California endures a third year of serious drought. The resolution focuses on local actions, providing water suppliers with flexibility to implement Stage 2 of their Water Shortage Contingency Plans, and also makes an exception for trees in guidelines for fallowing non-functional turf in the commercial, industrial and institutional sectors. The RWA Board of Directors recently unanimously supported a call for customers to conserve water by at least 15 percent. This call was renewed from 2021 despite the fact that local water providers are well-positioned to meet water supply needs this year, even with drought conditions. Sacramento is part of a larger integrated statewide water system that is under stress, and we are prepared to do our part. … ” Read more from the Northern California Water Association here: Local water providers in the Sacramento Valley support emergency conservation regulations
Folsom Lake is nearly full. But why are other reservoirs still drought stricken?
“As temperatures hit triple digits, the Memorial Day weekend will be looking much different from a year ago. “We are anticipating a very busy season – I mean compared to last year. When we have low water, that’s what drives people out here is water level and the temperature, so we’re expecting what nearly 90 degrees again this weekend so it’s going to be busy,” said Richard Preston Le May, Folsom sector superintendent of California State Parks. Water levels at Folsom Lake are now around 454 feet, or 87% of full. Capacity is 466 feet at Folsom Lake. … ” Read more from Channel 10 here: Folsom Lake is nearly full. But why are other reservoirs still drought stricken?
NAPA/SONOMA
‘We hope it sends a message’: Bay Area wine executive faces $3.75M fine for allegedly ripping up trees and other unpermitted activities
“As the megadrought bakes California, leaving parched lake beds and aggressive water restrictions in its wake, the state’s creeks and wetlands are more fragile, and vital, than ever. Punishments handed down to landowners who damage that delicate environment are now matching that seriousness. A Bay Area winery executive is facing a multi-million dollar state fine for allegedly removing trees and destroying a small wetland on a rural patch of land east of Cloverdale in Sonoma County. Hugh Reimers and Krasilsa Pacific Farms could be on the hook for up to $3.75 million in fines for allegedly cutting down trees, grading, ripping and other activities near tributaries to Little Sulphur Creek, Big Sulphur Creek and Crocker Creek in the Russian River watershed, according to the state water board. … ” Read more from SF Gate here: ‘We hope it sends a message’: Bay Area wine executive faces $3.75M fine for allegedly ripping up trees and other unpermitted activities
Sonoma County dairy farmer laments rising cost of recycled water
“Back in the 1980s, when Santa Rosa was paying ranchers to use recycled wastewater for irrigation, dairyman Doug Beretta considered it a sweet deal. “At first, the city said take all the water you can use — plus more,” said Beretta, whose Llano Road pasture is across the road from two recycled water storage ponds holding treated wastewater from homes and businesses in Santa Rosa, Rohnert Park, Sebastopol and Cotati. “It was a great relationship (between the city and the farmers),” he said. “There was nowhere else for the water to go.”… In the early days, it was a boon for farmers. … ” Read the full story at the Santa Rosa Press Democrat here: Sonoma County dairy farmer laments rising cost of recycled water
Tougher CA water restrictions could expand to Petaluma
“Some of the driest months on record in California have set residents up for even tighter water restrictions this summer. Petaluma is among the Northern California communities where mandatory water restrictions have already been imposed. Under a Local Drought Emergency proclaimed by the city of Petaluma in September 2021, the city is currently in Stage 4 of its Multi-Stage Water Shortage Contingency Plan, which is designed to reduce the city’s water usage by 30 percent through mandatory water-use restrictions. … ” Read more from The Patch here: Tougher CA water restrictions could expand to Petaluma
Opinion: Water theft in Petaluma is intolerable
Nancy and Brantley Richardson, Sonoma Neighborhood Coalition, write, “It is intolerable for local governments to ask ordinary citizens to make sacrifices— including not growing vegetable gardens or watering lawns—while they look the other way when cannabis growers filch public water during California’s worst drought in a millennium. The City of Petaluma’s website announces a vast array of water restrictions that the City Council has placed on residents of Petaluma because of the drought. These include outdoor watering only twice a week; no use of potable water for washing sidewalks, driveways, or buildings; no vehicle washing at home; no filling of new or existing pools; no planting of landscapes that require water; and potable water meters for construction limited to use for water line hydrostatic testing and chlorination. Last summer our members observed flagrant water theft in Petaluma. … ” Read more from the Sonoma County Gazette here: Opinion: Water theft in Petaluma is intolerable
BAY AREA
Marin Municipal Water District eyes three-year rollout of smart meters
“The Marin Municipal Water District is set to release a plan next month to replace all of its analog water meters with smart meters by 2026. The district, which serves 191,000 residents in central and southern Marin, estimates replacing its nearly 58,000 analog meters would take three years at a cost ranging from $20 million to $25 million. The switch allows ratepayers to track their water use in real time. … ” Read more from the Marin Independent Journal here: Marin Municipal Water District eyes three-year rollout of smart meters
As drought worsens, fines up to $10K approved for South Bay water wasters
“As the drought deepens, the Santa Clara Valley Water District has approved fines ranging from $100 to $10,000 for outdoor water wasters, while it asks for a 15% reduction in water usage.The district has moved from the carrot to the stick, fines for anyone turned in for overwatering. Just in the past month, John Geise and his wife in San Jose’s Willow Glen neighborhood made their landscaping more drought-resistant. “It’s pretty new and everything is now on a drip system. We shrunk the lawn down to — greater than half I think is eliminated now. And we replaced it with some decorative rock and some low water different variations of plants,” Geise told KPIX 5. … ” Read more from CBS News here: As drought worsens, fines up to $10K approved for South Bay water wasters
Valley Water Board of Directors adopts program to enforce restrictions on outdoor watering
“On May 24, 2022, the Valley Water Board of Directors approved a program to enforce the restrictions on outdoor watering in Santa Clara County, which includes the potential for fines. The water waste enforcement program, the first of its kind in Valley Water’s history, was unanimously approved on May 24, 2022. The program will impose restrictions on outdoor water use by residents and businesses and includes fines for those who ignore repeated notices to correct violations. … ” Read more from Valley Water here: Valley Water Board of Directors adopts program to enforce restrictions on outdoor watering
CENTRAL COAST
New Paso basin water regulations would ‘exacerbate overdraft’
“A new set of proposed Paso Robles Groundwater Basin rules would result in more vineyards and a spike in basinwide pumping, which would “exacerbate” the aquifer’s overdraft, according to a draft environmental impact report (EIR) released on May 20. The draft EIR, commissioned by San Luis Obispo County, analyzed the impacts of a proposed new groundwater ordinance pushed forward by the Board of Supervisors last year, which would supersede a current moratorium on expanded irrigated agriculture over the parched basin. … ” Read more from New Times SLO here: New Paso basin water regulations would ‘exacerbate overdraft’
Santa Barbara Supes tighten rules for approving new water wells
“It’s one thing for Governor Gavin Newsom to issue an executive decree ordering tougher rules for issuing new water wells permits; it’s quite another for the county supervisors to craft a new emergency ordinance making it happen. But that happened at the Tuesday, May 24, board meeting. Supervisors Bob Nelson and Steve Lavagnino worried that the proposed language they were considering at this board meeting was too restrictive, especially for farmers; Supervisor Das Williams worried that the language was too loose, allowing multinational corporations to continue to suck dry the already badly depleted groundwater basins of the Cuyama Valley. Despite such seemingly irreconcilable differences, the supervisors unanimously backed a new emergency ordinance that will require the county’s Department of Environmental Health, which is responsible for issuing well permits, to take additional steps to ensure that new wells are not allowed to negatively impact the production of nearby wells — defined as within 1,000 feet of each other — or cause subsidence of the ground. … ” Read more from the Santa Barbara Independent here: Santa Barbara Supes tighten rules for approving new water wells
SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY
Ripon prepares to bring another water well on line for city
“The City of Ripon’s Well 19 Pump Station Project recently called for replacing an existing water valve, adjusting for the existing utility conflicts, upgrading the building doors while decreasing the overall seize of the wellsite. All that amounted to a change order of minus-$11,850 to the Water Enterprise Capital Fund. According to the staff report by Public Works Director James Pease at the May 10 Ripon City Council meeting, this recent change order – project was awarded last September to Soracco, Inc. for $1.7 million – reduced the overall size of the wellsite in “an effort to eliminate unnecessary improvements that will not be required until future park improvements in this area are constructed,” he said. … ” Read more from the Manteca Bulletin here: Ripon prepares to bring another water well on line for city
Bass Lake welcomes increase in water levels ahead of summer fun
“With the summer months fast approaching, many will take to the lakes to celebrate and cool off. Despite the ongoing drought, PG&E is managing water at Bass Lake to bring boaters back out on the lake. “I think we’re extra excited this summer because we have more water than last year, the lake level is up,” said Owner and Manager at Miller’s Landing, Michelle Miller. … ” Continue reading at KMPH here: Bass Lake welcomes increase in water levels ahead of summer fun
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
With a third year of drought, Southern California facing a hot, dry summer
“Memorial Day, the unofficial start of summer, is Monday. What’s in store for the upcoming season of beach days and barbecues in Southern California? To start with, it will be dry. That’s not just because California’s Mediterranean climate means rain mostly falls during a few wet winter months, but because the state is in its third year of drought. This year, after an unusually wet December, California experienced the driest January, February and March on record — some of the very months when the state expects to get almost all of its precipitation. California’s precipitation typically comes in a handful of winter storms. The state averages seven strong atmospheric rivers during the October-to-September water year, according to the Center for Western Weather and Water Extremes at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in San Diego. The state kicked off the 2021-22 water year with an exceptional atmospheric river on Oct. 28, but then ended up with only five strong ones for the whole winter, making it the third straight water year with below-normal atmospheric river activity. … ” Read more from the LA Times here: With a third year of drought, Southern California facing a hot, dry summer
LA approves outdoor-watering restrictions
“Water conservation measures announced earlier this month by Mayor Eric Garcetti were approved Wednesday by the Los Angeles City Council, confirming that outdoor watering in the city will be restricted to two days per week based on street addresses beginning June 1.The restrictions, approved by a 13-0 vote, are more lenient than the one-day limit ordered earlier by the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California for areas that are dependent on water from the State Water Project. “It’s actually less strict than what other neighboring water districts are moving towards, where they’re going to just one day a week,” Garcetti said on May 10 while announcing the measures from an Eagle Rock home where the resident recently installed drought-friendly landscaping. “Angelenos have done more. In the city of Los Angeles we’ve done more, so we don’t have to see a risk of plants dying or going to one day a week because of all the things we are doing collectively and have done.” … ” Read more from the LA Daily News here: LA approves outdoor-watering restrictions
Flush less. Bathe less. L.A. Times readers’ tips for saving water in the drought
“Are you watching your lawn slowly crisp and turn brown? Are you positioning buckets under your spigots to catch every spare drop of water? Are you trying not to break a sweat because you’ve cut your showers to two a week? (Yikes!) These are just some of the ideas L.A. Times readers sent us when we asked them to tell us how they’re conserving water. It’s an urgent question, with Southern California water authorities announcing new restrictions to deal with the drought and reduced water supply. And while many readers called on Californians to make major lifestyle changes, others offered common-sense tips or new twists on familiar ideas that reduce the amount of water that goes down the drain. … ” Read more from the LA Times here: Flush less. Bathe less. L.A. Times readers’ tips for saving water in the drought
Amid drought, Riverside County water agencies ‘well positioned’
“Despite the severe drought impacting the Inland Empire and most of California, prompting warnings from the governor of mandated cutbacks, some of Riverside County’s largest water agencies said they’re well-stocked on supplies, without the need to impose drastic measures to conserve. “The Eastern Municipal Water District is very well positioned to meet the needs of its customers during the ongoing drought,” the Perris-based agency said in a statement released to City News Service. “EMWD customers have reduced per-capita water usage by more than 40 percent in the past two decades and have embraced an industry-leading rate structure that promotes efficiency.” … ” Read more from the Patch here: Amid drought, Riverside County water agencies ‘well positioned’
LA river at a crossroads after several years — A master plan to be considered by supervisors
“After a five-year study, the LA County Board of Supervisors will consider a master plan that outlines how to upgrade the Los Angeles River on June 14. The Supervisors will consider approval of “The Reimagined River,” a 538-page Master plan, and a Program Environmental Impact Report (PEIR). The LA River Master Plan, originally drafted in 2016, described as a “menu of possibilities,” seeks to transform the 51 mile long river, but the question remains if the plan can transform the river enough to meet the needs of flood control, the environment and consider the needs of local communities. … ” Read more from the San Fernando Valley Sun via MSN here: LA river at a crossroads after several years — A master plan to be considered by supervisors
Claremont: Fireworks show canceled due to water emergency
“Due to the strict water restrictions beginning June 1. the City of Claremont made the decision Wednesday to cancel the Fourth of July fireworks show. The action was taken following the city council’s adoption of a water conservation ordinance, and the declaration of a water emergency on Tuesday, along with the city’s responsibility to cut its water usage by 20%. In order for the show to be held safely, thousands of gallons of water must be used to saturate the field around Pomona College’s Strehle track where the fireworks are launched. City staff felt it was unwise to proceed and the city concluded that with just over a month until the show, there was not enough time to find a alternate location. … ” Read more from the Claremont Courier here: Claremont: Fireworks show canceled due to water emergency
Idyllwild Water District finally adopts conservation stage
“Fern Valley Water District (FVWD) has been in Stage 3 since September 2021, Pine Cove Water District has been in Stage 2 since Feb. 1 and Lake Hemet Municipal Water District just restated its water conservation program since August 2015. On March 28, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed an executive order urging water agencies to take more actions to conserve water supplies. Idyllwild Water District (IWD) has been the only hold-out on the Hill, saying it had plenty of water and did not need to conserve. However, Wednesday, May 18, due to public pressure, General Manager Leo Havener agreed to go into Stage 2 effective Wednesday, June 1. ... ” Read more from the Idllwild Town Crier here: Idyllwild Water District finally adopts conservation stage
Fire restrictions start a month early amid high danger in San Bernardino National Forest
“Dry conditions and warming temperatures have forced San Bernardino National Forest officials to institute campfire and hunting restrictions a month earlier than usual. The rules go into effect Wednesday. Visitors will not be allowed to build or maintain any type of fire, including campfires or charcoal fires, except in a National Forest-provided campfire ring or barbecue grills in approved areas. The restrictions are in effect throughout the 820,000-acre national forest with few exceptions, the forest announced. The Angeles National Forest and Los Padres National Forest started similar restrictions earlier this month. … ” Read more from the LA Times here: Fire restrictions start a month early amid high danger in San Bernardino National Forest
IMPERIAL/COACHELLA VALLEYS
Desert farmers concerned, prepared for extreme drought
“Currently, no water is running through pipes and canals for some farmers in Northern California. It’s not even June. Farmers there have experienced this before, but the concern of that happening is starting to trickle into the Coachella Valley. “To answer your question, yes, I certainly am concerned,” George Tudor shared. Tudor is the owner of Tudor Ranch in Mecca. He has been around farming his entire life, but knowing that water isn’t available for some farmers in California is a cause for concern. … ” Read more from NBC Palm Springs here: Desert farmers concerned, prepared for extreme drought
Imperial Irrigation District schedules public workshops on Equitable Distribution Plan
“The IID Board of Directors has initiated a process to develop an Equitable Distribution Plan (EDP), according to a recent IID press release. The previous EDP instituted by the IID was stopped in 2017 when Judge Brooks Anderholt ruled in favor of El Centro farmer Michael Abatti declaring the IID did not have the authority to decide on water quantities to individual growers based on past water history usage. The IID appealed the decision eventually having the California Appellate Court rule in the District’s favor that it did have the authority to regulate water usage. … ” Read more from the Desert Review here: Imperial Irrigation District schedules public workshops on Equitable Distribution Plan
Imperial County: New River improvement updates
“The Imperial County Board of Supervisors received an update on the New River Improvement Project, which directly addresses the polluted waters as they flow north from Mexico. Part of the presentation was to explained a more than $5 million increase in the cost of the project. When the New River Improvement Project was initially awarded in 2018 in collaboration with the city of Calexico, the county estimated that the project would cost $27,619,875, said Jose Angel, New River Improvement Project manager. As of April 28, Angel estimated that the price of the project would be increased to $34,270,900, with Angel attributing the increase in cost to inflation and supply-chain issues relating to the war in Ukraine. He assured the Board of Supervisors the California Environmental Protection Agency would cover the additional cost. ... ” Read more from the Holtville Tribune here (scroll down): Imperial County: New River improvement updates
SAN DIEGO
San Diego County prepares for statewide drought regulations
“New drought regulations will go into effect next month as California tries to conserve water before the hot summer months. California State Water Resources Control Board adopted a new regulation on Tuesday, to ensure a more aggressive approach to save water. Even though San Diego County is not facing a water shortage, residents will still have to comply with the state’s regulations. The new regulation will ban watering grass in front or next to commercial, industrial or institutional properties starting June 10. The ban does not include grass used for recreational or community purpose and trees located in those areas. … ” Read more from Fox 5 here: San Diego County prepares for statewide drought regulations
Along the Colorado River …
Officials explain ‘dead pool’ and how to stop it in Mead
“As the water level in Lake Mead continues to drop, a scary and foreboding term is seeping up in conversations about water conservation — dead pool. Dead pool is when the water level would get so low in a reservoir that a dam would no longer be able to produce hydropower or deliver water downstream. It’s been a subject of concern for Lake Powell and Lake Mead, which are on the Colorado River and deliver water to more than 36 million people in seven states as well as Mexico. Lake Mead would reach dead pool if the water level dropped to 895 feet, said Patti Aaron, public affairs officer for the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation’s Lower Colorado Basin Region. As of Wednesday, the level of Lake Mead is 1,049.65 feet, she said. “We’re not in danger of hitting dead pool,” Aaron said. “It’s not an imminent problem. It’s not something that’s going to happen tomorrow, and it’s something we don’t think is going to happen at all. We would take every action to not have that happen.” ... ” Read more from the Las Vegas Sun here: Officials explain ‘dead pool’ and how to stop it in Mead
In national water news today …
Tapping icebergs, fogs and other “unconventional water sources” can help meet global freshwater needs
“UN and partner water experts say it is time to increase the tapping of Earth’s diverse and abundant unconventional water sources – the millions of cubic kilometers of water in deep land-based and seabed aquifers, in icebergs and fog, in the ballast holds of thousands of ships, and elsewhere. A new book, Unconventional Water Resources, published by Springer and compiled by experts at UN University’s Institute for Water, Environment and Health (UNU-INWEH), the UNU Institute for Integrated Management of Material Fluxes and of Resources (UNU-FLORES), and the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), says these potential supplies can help many of the 1 in 4 people on Earth who face shortages of water for drinking, sanitation, agriculture, and economic development. … ” Read more from Sci Tech Daily here: Tapping icebergs, fogs and other “unconventional water sources” can help meet global freshwater needs
Feds open spigot to tend orphaned wells on public lands
“The Interior Department today announced the distribution of $33 million for work on plugging and cleaning up orphaned oil and gas wells on public lands. The funding provided by a massive infrastructure bill will be spread among 277 projects nationwide, targeting in particular those deemed to pose threats to human health and safety, the climate, and wildlife. “I have seen firsthand how the orphaned oil and gas wells left behind by extractive industries lead to hazardous pollution, water contamination and safety hazards for our communities,” said Interior Secretary Deb Haaland. Today’s announcement is part of a total of $250 million provided through the infrastructure bill for cleaning up sites on federal lands, national parks, national wildlife refuges and national forests. ... ” Read more from E&E News here: Feds open spigot to tend orphaned wells on public lands
Also on Maven’s Notebook today …
NOTICE: Advance notice of probable curtailments under standard water right Term 91
NOTICE: May 24 Weekly Update on Curtailment Status of Water Rights and Claims in the Delta Watershed
NOTICE: No-Cost Leak Detection Surveys for Small Water Systems
NOTICE of Public Workshop – Changes in the Credit/Financial Guidance Appendices
