Spotlight Archive
DWR Employees Participate in Emergency Responder Flood Fight TrainingThe flood season is upon us and DWR is ready. The Department recently held a training session at its Maintenance Yard in Sutter to teach DWR staff how to build two structures: a temporary levee using earth and plastic and a temporary barrier using Muscle Wall. These flood-fighting techniques can add critical inches or feet to protect structures and people during sudden flood events.
The training was part of an ongoing program to prepare DWR Incident Commanders and California Conservation Corps teams with strategies to quickly and effectively respond to flood risk.
Watch this Muscle Wall video to see how crews assemble the barrier. (12-08-16)
It’s Time to Turn Off Your SprinklersFall and winter bring rain, snow, and decreasing temperatures. To conserve water, we recommend you shut off your sprinklers. Conservation is a California lifestyle, regardless of the season. Winterizing your sprinkler system can also protect your pipes from freezing.
“We can take much greater advantage of incoming storms if people shut off their sprinklers. There’s no need to add more water to already soaked landscaping,” said Department of Water Resources Director Mark Cowin.
Learn about other tips to reduce water use around the yard. (11-30-16)
Winter Outlook Workshop Aims to Improve Precipitation ForecastingOceanography in La Jolla, November 16-18, 2016. The workshop focused on efforts to improve seasonal precipitation forecasting, which could help agencies better manage water resources.
“We'd all like to know if 2017 will be wet or dry, but determining that is scientifically difficult. We’re trying to emphasize the need for prioritizing this research in the science community,” said Jeanine Jones, Interstate Resources Manager at DWR.
Find more information on water conditions, including whether La Niña will make a difference in 2017. (11-17-16)
CIMIS Weather Station Promotes Water Conservation and LearningDWR’s new California Irrigation Management Information System (CIMIS) station at Beattie Middle School in San Bernardino County collects climate data to be used by farmers, irrigation managers and students. "This CIMIS station is one of many used throughout the State to assist farmers and water agencies in their water conservation efforts. In this case, it also benefits students as a tool for learning about the science of climatology, water conservation and irrigation management,” said DWR’s Michael Sabbaghian at the October ribbon-cutting ceremony. CIMIS stations across California collect data that can also be used to manage pests, generate energy, fight fires and forecast weather. Review CIMIS data, maps, news, and more (11-10-16)
Stretching California’s Water SupplyAs California starts a new water year after five years of drought, DWR managers recently presented at a workshop in Long Beach, along with academic and water resource officials, to discuss strategies for improving drought resilience and reducing drought vulnerability. One priority strategy for DWR is improving seasonal precipitation forecasting skills, in part by supporting emerging research on atmospheric river storms that may improve forecasts. Other tools for increasing resiliency include sustainable groundwater management and development of urban stormwater capture programs. Get the latest on drought conditions here. (11-02-16)
DWR advises, Flood Prepare California!DWR, along with CAL FIRE and the National Weather Service, warn that weather and land conditions across California increase the potential for flash flooding during the rainy season now under way. Five years of drought conditions have exacerbated wildfires across the state. Rain is beginning to fall across fire burn scars, making these areas prone to sudden erosion along roads and through neighborhoods. DWR says, Flood Prepare California! To learn more about flooding after fire events and recommended actions you should take if traveling through a flash flood-prone area, watch this educational video produced by DWR with funding from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. (10-24-16)
Construction Underway for Two Fish Release SitesDWR broke ground late summer for the construction of two new fish release sites, Little Baja and Manzo Ranch, on the northwest side of Sherman Island in Rio Vista. It has been nearly 40 years since DWR constructed release sites, which are used to return fish salvaged from the John E. Skinner Fish Protective Facility back into Delta water. The new sites along the Sacramento River will include a new release system, automated gates, site lighting, overhead downspout, electrical hookup and security fencing. With completion expected by December 2017, DWR’s fish release sites will total four with the existing Curtis Landing and Horseshoe Bend. The project complies with the 2009 National Marine and Fisheries Service’s Biological Opinion mandate to reduce predation and improve survival rates of salvaged fish returning to the Delta. (10-17-16)
East Porterville Residents Urged to Sign UpThe East Porterville Water Supply Project in August began connecting homes to existing water distribution lines from the City of Porterville. Approximately 300 properties are eligible for the no-cost connection in the project’s first phase. Owners who attended an informational meeting in Porterville on October 5 were briefed on the three-step process that’s required for water to begin flowing to their homes. Phase 1 is planned for completion by the end of the year, with another 700 homes scheduled for Phase 2 in 2017. For information, visit website. (10-06-16)
Preparing for Next Water YearCalifornia’s new water year began October 1, and DWR’s Flood Operations Branch employees are hosting a dozen statewide Preseason Flood Coordination meetings. Topics include flood threats, winter weather outlook, regional updates, emergency roles and responsibilities and web resources. The National Weather Service, County Office of Emergency Services, Governor’s Office of Emergency Services, California Conservation Corps, CALFIRE and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers are among the presenters. The Riverside meeting held in September marked the halfway point in the series. If you’re interested in attending one of the remaining six meetings, see flyer. (10-03-16)
Restoring the Suisun MarshNatural Resources Secretary John Laird and DWR Director Mark Cowin spoke this week at the groundbreaking event for the restoration of 420 acres of tidal marsh in the Grizzly Bay region of Suisun March. Known as the Tule Red project in Solano County, it is home to duck hunting clubs created when people more than a century ago built earthen dikes to block off part of the Suisun Marsh. The area will be restored by changing berms and creating new channels and basins to improve food production for threatened or endangered species, such as the Delta smelt, longfin smelt and Chinook salmon. The project expected to be completed in 2019 is being led by DWR and the State and Federal Contractors Water Agency. For more information, visit http://www.sfcwa.org/2013/03/27/tule-red-restoration-project/ (09-21-16)
Ensuring a Safe Water SupplyCould you imagine a day without clean, safe water? On September 15, DWR, the State Water Resources Control Board and several agencies gathered for the “Imagine a Day without Water” event in Willows as they celebrated the completion of the Willows Chromium-6 Treatment Plant with a ribbon-cutting. DWR’s Chief of Financial Analysis and Risk Management Office Linda Ng recognized this important achievement by Cal Water and how this project funded by DWR through a $5 million Proposition 50 grant addresses drinking water contaminant removal technology. Speakers presented an overview of chromium-6 and the treatment plant. The plant will help ensure water supply meets new State water quality standard. (09-16-16)
DWR Celebrates Sacramento Weir CentennialConstructed in 1916 and in large part prompted by the 1915 flood on the Sacramento River, the Sacramento Weir is today the last proactive defense against Mother Nature’s flood flows speeding toward the City of Sacramento to deliver a catastrophic punch. At nearly 2000 feet in length, and with 48 gates with wooden plank ‘needles,’ the Sacramento Weir is the only weir in our flood system that is manually operated in times of need. DWR marked the 100-year anniversary of construction by providing a tour and historical briefing to Floodplain Management Association Conference attendees and Sacramento area media. (09-08-16)
A Novel Approach to Improve Delta Smelt SurvivalPlankton is an important element in the endangered Delta smelt’s food chain. Four years ago, DWR scientists observed plankton blooms in the Delta following agricultural drainage from the Yolo Bypass – the first fall blooms in more than 20 years. Acting on a hunch, they pursued an experiment this summer with numerous agencies to redirect water from the Sacramento River down the Colusa Basin Drain into Yolo Bypass to see if they could produce similar improvements in plankton. At the Yolo Bypass today, DWR’s Director Mark Cowin and Lead Scientist Ted Sommer gathered with State and federal leaders to unveil the initial results of the flow action, which is a key part of the Delta Smelt Resiliency Strategy. News Release (08-31-16)
Tribal Governments Briefed on Groundwater Act ImplementationTo attain Tribal perspectives and chart the next steps for Tribal engagement as part of the implementation of the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA), DWR’s annual Tribal Governments workshop was held in August in Sacramento. DWR’s Tribal Policy Advisor Anecita Agustinez, Regional Tribal Liaisons, Sustainable Groundwater Management Program staff and members of DWR’s Tribal Advisory Group briefed Tribal Leaders and representatives on program activities, outcomes of the recent boundary basin modification process, ongoing engagement opportunities and funding opportunities. In Governor Brown’s Executive Order B-10-11, tribal consultation and communication is a separate and distinct form of communication practice. This includes government to government engagement with California’s Native American Tribes. For DWR’s SGM Program, visit http://water.ca.gov/groundwater/sgm/index.cfm and for DWR’s Tribal engagement, visit http://water.ca.gov/tribal/ (08-26-16)
First Water Connections Made in East PortervilleEast Porterville residents have been waiting for a day like August 19th for years. Hundreds have gone without a sustainable water supply since their properties’ wells went dry during California’s five-year drought. DWR’s engineers have led the way toward sustainability by designing a distribution system that eventually will deliver water from the City of Porterville to 1,800 homes in its neighboring community to the east. The first connection was made on the 19th, and dozens more are expected to be completed in the coming weeks. The era of temporary water tanks and bottled water deliveries is ending for East Porterville. (08-19-16)
How to Remove Turf and Create Water Wise LandscapeCreate an edible or pollinator garden by following these simple steps for removing your turf to create a water-efficient landscape. The DWR video created at the California State Fair’s California Lifestyle outdoor exhibit covers the entire process. Before starting the project, apply for turf rebate and learn tips on how to convert your turf into a beautiful outdoor landscape by visiting saveourwaterrebates.com. (08-15-16)
DWR Video: https://youtu.be/DZn8hH87q7Y
Water Conservation for LifeThe new Save Our Water summer campaign titled “Water Conservation: It’s For Life” thanks Californians for their conservation efforts and asks for their continued commitment to saving water. “While we had some relief this past winter, the fact is California remains in drought,” said DWR Director Mark Cowin. “The need for conservation remains and Save Our Water will help make permanent changes to save water.” Save Our Water, sponsored by DWR and the Association of California Water Agencies, is a statewide water conservation program created to help Californians find ways to reduce their water use. To view the improved website that has tools and tips for saving water around the house, yard and neighborhood, visit saveourwater.com (08-02-16)
Lake Perris Aquatic Adventure CampBy teaching water safety to children at the 2016 Aquatic Adventure Camp (AAC) at Lake Perris, DWR helps keep children safe at its State Water Project reservoirs. DWR in partnership with the Department of Parks and Recreation offered a 10-day program from July 11 to 22 focusing on educating children ages 7-15 about water safety and the steps to take during an emergency. Activities include life jacket safety, basic first aid training, water sports such as kayaking and snorkeling and lessons on physical health and fitness. The free AAC program offers sessions each year for up to 75 randomly selected children to participate. Water safety information available here. (07-20-16)
Making Conservation a Way of Life Exhibits at State FairWith California in its fifth year of drought, inspiring visitors to make conservation a way of life is what DWR’s three California State Fair exhibits are designed to accomplish now through July 24. The trio of exhibits, dubbed Conservation: The California Lifestyle, feature drought-tolerant landscaping ideas, edible gardens and take-home information on conservation. Flyers are available for DWR turf rebates and water-wise plant lists. Visitors can find the two outdoor exhibits in Farm Areas #1 and #2 and the indoor exhibit in Building B. For an online look at DWR’s exhibits, visit www.water.ca.gov/turf/statefair. For information on the California State Fair operating hours, visit http://www.castatefair.org/. (07-12-16)
Four Decades of Serving CaliforniaAs part of the California Conservation Corps’ 40 years of Serving California celebration, DWR and 12 other agencies were honored with Legacy Awards for their partnership with the CCC. Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. and Natural Resources Secretary John Laird spoke at the State Capitol event on June 30. In the last 40 years, CCC crews assisted DWR during several projects, such as floodfighting and turf replacement. The CCC, created on July 7, 1976 by Governor Brown, is celebrating more than 74 million hours of natural resources work in California. For CCC celebration information, see website here (07-07-16)
DWR Marks 60th AnniversaryCongratulations to DWR for managing California’s water for the last 60 years. Created on July 5, 1956, DWR manages the water resources of California in cooperation with other agencies, to benefit the State’s people and to protect, restore and enhance the natural and human environments. Take a look back at DWR jobs during its earlier years. To view other DWR 60th anniversary articles, view DWR Magazine here. (07-05-16)
DWR Photography
Celebrate the Fourth of July at Lake OrovilleThe skies over Lake Oroville in Northern California will sparkle with red, white and blue as DWR proudly supports Oroville's 2016 Fourth of July fireworks celebration. The Tallest Dam Independence Day Celebration is organized by the Rotary Club of Oroville. Free parking will be available at the Oroville Dam Overlook parking lots and Visitors Center beginning at 9 a.m. The spectacle celebrating our nation’s 240th birthday begins just after dark, and revelers can set their sights on the sky from the top of Oroville Dam, by boat on Lake Oroville, and from many other spots in the hills around the lake. See details on traffic restrictions and regulations here. (06-30-16)
DWR Photography - John Chacon
Study for East Porterville Water Supply Project Available for CommentsDWR, in partnership with the State Water Resources Control Board and the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services, has made public a draft feasibility study for construction of a new water distribution system for East Porterville in Tulare County. The project’s purpose is to provide a permanent, safe and reliable household water supply to the community of East Porterville. During a community meeting on June 23, speakers explained the project and responded to questions. To learn more about the project, visit http://water.ca.gov/waterconditions/porterville.cfm (06-24-16)
Tree-Rings Provide Drought InsightDWR and University of Arizona researchers hope to get snapshots of as much as 1000 years of streamflow and precipitation data for Southern California watersheds from tree-ring samples such as these collected on June 14 at Switzer Falls in Los Angeles County. Samples gathered from the Los Angeles, San Gabriel and other watersheds will help local water agencies to better assess drought risks in their service areas. As part of Executive Order B-37-16, DWR requires local agencies to develop contingency plans for drought of at least five years as well as plan for more frequent and severe drought periods. (06-14-16)
Kids Learn Water Safety at Lake Del ValleFrom water rescue to life jacket safety, children between the ages of 7 to 15 and their families are stopping by Lake Del Valle in Livermore for the East Bay Regional Park District’s “Vamos a Aprender” water safety education program. Sponsored by DWR, the weekend program began June 4 and runs through August. In the two 45-minute sessions offered at 11 a.m. and noon in English and Spanish, kids learn the proper way to wear a life vest, how to stay afloat, beach rules and more. Participating children receive a complimentary life jacket and DWR take-home water safety materials. For more on water safety, visit http://www.water.ca.gov/recreation/safety/. (06-06-16)
Water Year 2016: San Joaquin Valley Groundwater ConditionsSan Joaquin Valley groundwater conditions took center stage at a water year 2016 briefing today in Fresno. Speakers from DWR, NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Fresno County and the Kings River Conservation District gathered at California State University, Fresno. They provided the latest information on the state’s current hydrologic, drought and San Joaquin Valley’s groundwater conditions. Topics covered the local perspective of beginning the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act implementation and monitoring of San Joaquin Valley land subsidence with remote sensing. DWR and the Water Education Foundation co-sponsored the event, in cooperation with the Center for Irrigation Technology. (06-01-16)
Camp on Water at Lake OrovilleEnjoy the spectacular view of Lake Oroville on a floating campsite. Each of the ten 20 feet by 24 feet campsites equipped with a camp table, sink, toilet and barbecue grill can accommodate up to 15 people. Eat, sleep, relax in the only two-tier floating campsites in California. For reservations, see website at reserveamerica.com or call 1-800-444-7275. (05-19-16)
California Groundwater Sustainability Plan Regulations ApprovedThe Department of Water Resources regulations that will guide local groundwater sustainability agency management and regulation of California’s groundwater basins as outlined in the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) have been approved by the California Water Commission (CWC). SGM Executive Program Manager David Gutierrez and his team presented the regulations to the CWC prior to the vote. The regulations will be filed with the Office of Administrative Law and go into effect in June 2016. “Today we reach a major milestone in California’s quest to sustainably manage groundwater,” said DWR Director Mark Cowin. “These regulations will help communities bring aquifers into balance and prepare for a changing climate and future droughts.” News Release (05-19-16)
Some Reservoirs Nearly Full, but Drought PersistsWhile key Northern California reservoirs – Oroville, Shasta and Folsom - are nearly full, water levels are below average in much of the San Joaquin Valley and Southern California. On May 9, Governor Brown issued an Executive Order that builds on temporary emergency water restrictions to make the wise and sparing use of water a permanent way of life. Measures called for include water use reporting and bans on wasteful practices such as hosing off sidewalks and driveways. “Californians stepped up during this drought and saved more water than ever before,” said Governor Brown. “But now we know that drought is becoming a regular occurrence and water conservation must be a part of our everyday life.”
Executive Order available here.
Video of Folsom Lake, Lake Oroville and Shasta Lake here. (05-16-16)
ASCE Recognizes Three DWR ProjectsAt the 2015 American Society of Civil Engineers’ (ASCE) Sacramento Section Awards event on May 11, ASCE recognized three outstanding DWR projects – the Department’s Climate Action Plan, Sherman Island restoration project and West False River Emergency Drought Barrier. DWR’s Climate Action Plan, created to guide DWR on addressing climate change for its programs and projects, received the Sustainability Project of the Year award. The Sherman Island Whale's Mouth Wetland Restoration and Scour Pond Habitat Enhancement project that restored approximately 600 acres of wetlands on Sherman Island was recognized as the Environmental Project of the Year. The emergency drought barrier that controlled saltwater intrusion into the Delta during reduced reservoir releases also was recognized as an outstanding project. For awards information, visit asce-sacto.org. (05-12-16)
DWR Apprentice Program Accepts ApplicationsEarn while you learn by joining DWR’s Apprentice Program. For one day only on May 12 at five locations throughout California, DWR will accept applications for the three and four-year apprentice programs, where DWR electricians, mechanics, operators and utility craftsworkers take the next generation of journey-persons under their wings and teach them their trade. Applications for the Hydroelectric Plant Electrician, Hydroelectric Plant Mechanic and Hydroelectric Plant Operator and Utility Craftsworker Apprentice classifications must be submitted in-person at one of DWR’s five field divisions in Oroville, Byron, Gustine, Bakersfield and Pearblossom. For more information, including job descriptions, salary details and minimum qualifications visit http://www.water.ca.gov/apprenticetraining/ (05-05-16)
Improving Flood ProtectionGround breaks on a dream of Hamilton City forefathers back in the 1930s: reliable flood protection for the small Glenn County community that today boasts of just over 2000 residents. Folks there have evacuated six times in the past 33 years. Now, thanks to a $5-million grant by DWR, land donated by the Nature Conservancy to offset local cost, and recent Federal funding, improvements to the J levee along the Sacramento River are finally underway. “This multi-benefit project moves forward in the spirit of Governor Brown’s California Water Action Plan,” Deputy Director Gary Bardini told the celebratory crowd. “The new levee will not only protect the community, but make room for restoring native habitat along the river.” (05-02-16)
Water Conservation Outreach RecognizedSave Our Water, a joint partnership between the Association of California Water Agencies and the California Department of Water Resources, won a silver-level CAPPIE Award from the Sacramento Public Relations Association for its 2015 outreach efforts. During the state’s 4th year of drought, the program delivered critical conservation messages to millions of Californians. The year-long campaign included celebrity water conservation public service announcements, billboard advertisements, radio spots, increased social media messaging and more. Save Our Water was created in 2009 to educate Californians on daily water conservation. Visit www.saveourwater.com for water saving tips. (04-29-16)
Watershed University Held in Central ValleyLearn about your flood risk and tools that can help you at the online Watershed University being held April 27 and 28 at the Office of Emergency Services in Atwater. This free event led by the California Silver Jackets is being hosted by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in partnership with the California Department of Water Resources, CALFIRE and the Merced County Office of Emergency Services. Topics include FEMA flood mapping, National Flood Insurance Program, California Water Action Plan and integrated water management collaboration. To view the agenda and register, visit http://water.ca.gov/floodmgmt/watershed-university/ (04-27-16)
Drought Puts Focus on Water OperationsChallenges of meeting California’s water supply needs during the state’s historic drought were discussed today by DWR and U.S. Bureau of Reclamation officials during a briefing at California State University, Fresno. “Water Year 2016: The Challenges of Water Project Operations,” sponsored by DWR and the Water Education Foundation in cooperation with the Center for Irrigation Technology, focused on hydrologic conditions, precipitation patterns, groundwater management, and operations. DWR speakers included Interstate Resources Manager Jeanine Jones, Water Operations Chief John Leahigh, Snow Surveys Chief David Rizzardo, Bay Delta Office Chief Paul Marshall and Senior Engineering Geologist Dane Mathis. Area Manager Michael Jackson represented the Bureau of Reclamation. (04-26-16)
DWR Promotes Water Conservation at Earth Day EventsAs Earth Day celebrates its 46th anniversary, DWR educates participants about the importance of water conservation. DWR’s booth at several Sacramento area Earth Day events includes Save Our Water posters, bumper stickers, conservation booklets and information on the state’s turf and toilet rebates. The Department’s educational water burger will also be on display highlighting how much water it takes to make a hamburger. Earth Day events will be held at CalEPA Building on April 20, Sierra College on April 20 and Southside Park in downtown Sacramento on April 24. For more information, visit Earth Day website. (04-20-16)
Turf and Toilet Rebates Available from DWRAs California enters a fifth year of drought, are you looking for ways to save water in your outdoor landscape or bathroom? DWR’s turf and toilet rebates are still available. By changing from a non-efficient to high-efficiency toilet, you can save 45 gallons per day. Consider converting your lawn into a water wise landscape. The Turf and Rebate program managed by DWR offers a $100 toilet rebate and up to $2 per square foot for lawn replacement. To apply for rebates, visit http://www.saveourwaterrebates.com/ (04-14-16)
Major Milestone in Protecting Sacramento from FloodsDWR Deputy Director Gary Bardini joins Sacramento flood management leadership for a close-up look at improvements made to levees along the American River. Bardini, along with U.S. Representatives Doris Matsui and Ami Bera, and Central Valley Flood Protection Board President Bill Edgar, highlighted the significance of improving a 22-mile stretch of levees built to protect lives and property. Sacramento’s risk of flooding is still the greatest of any major city in the country. The completion of this work is a milestone achievement and a step forward in the plan to protect Sacramento from the catastrophic consequences of a 200-year flood. Visit ARCF project website for more information.
http://www.spk.usace.army.mil/Missions/CivilWorks/SacramentoAreaLevees.aspx (04-08-16)
Snowpack Not Miraculous Despite March RainRainfall at the Northern California stations monitored by DWR was impressive in March – more than 16 inches, almost two and one-half times the month’s average. While the rainfall was encouraging, the snowpack hasn’t kept pace. Frank Gehrke of DWR’s snow survey team reported about average water content at Phillips Station on March 30. The statewide content was just 87 percent of average for the date. “The effects of previous dry years will remain for now,” he said. In other words, California still has drought conditions. News Release Snow Survey Video (03-30-16)
Draft Groundwater Regulations Highlighted at Statewide MeetingsDWR’s Sustainable Groundwater Management (SGM) Program goes on the road to present new draft Groundwater Sustainability Plan (GSP) Emergency Regulations to communities around the state. SGM Program Manager Trevor Joseph explains the regulations to an audience at the Visalia Convention Center on March 21. This is one of three public meetings and a statewide webinar to be held to solicit comments on the draft GSP Regulations. The statewide webinar will be held on Thursday, March 24 from 1 to 3 p.m. Register for the webinar at https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/2515354223176908292.
Information about other meetings at News Release.
Visit DWR’s SGM Program website. (03-22-16)
Storms Haven’t Ended DroughtThis month’s storms have boosted California’s two largest reservoirs – Shasta Lake north of Redding and Lake Oroville in Butte County – to their historically average levels for this time of year, but other key reservoirs remain critically low as our historic drought keeps its grip on the state. One average season does not overcome the effects of four dry years, and precipitation (rain and snow) has been well below average in Southern California as well as some areas in Northern California. San Joaquin Valley reservoirs, such as San Luis Reservoir, remain low, and groundwater levels in many areas of the San Joaquin Valley and throughout the state have dropped to historic lows in the past four years. Conserving water in our homes and businesses remains critically important. To learn ways to save water, visit http://saveourwater.com/. (03-17-16)
DWR Honored with National Climate Leadership AwardDWR triumphed at the 2016 Climate Leadership Conference in Seattle, Washington last night by receiving the Organizational Leadership award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. This award recognizes organizations that not only have their own greenhouse gas inventories and targeted emissions reduction goals, but also show extraordinary leadership in their internal response to climate change. The conference is dedicated to professionals focusing on global climate change through policy, innovation and business solutions. In 2015, DWR was awarded the Climate Leadership Award for the “Excellence in Greenhouse Gas Management” category. John Andrew of DWR (right) accepts award from Dennis J. McLerran of U.S. EPA. More information about the 2016 Climate Leadership Award winners is available at http://www.epa.gov/climateleadership/2016-climate-leadership-award-winners
News Release http://www.water.ca.gov/news/newsreleases/2016/030916climateleadership.pdf (03-10-16)
Photograph by U.S.EPA
Making Conservation a California Way of LifeIt’s time to be dazzled with blooming brilliance at upcoming garden shows. In response to California’s continuing drought, DWR invites the public to the Sacramento Home and Garden Show at Cal Expo March 4-6. Check out the Water Use Efficiency exhibit “Making Conservation a California Way of Life” with tips on how to replace lawns and ornamental turf with drought tolerant landscapes. Learn more about the Residential and Institutional Turf Replacement Initiative and other conservation actions. If you miss the event this weekend, you have another chance on March 16-20 at the San Francisco Flower and Garden Show at the San Mateo Event Center. To learn more about the Turf and Toilet Rebates, visit http://www.saveourwaterrebates.com/ (03-04-16)
California Needs Another March MiracleJust when hopes took flight that El Niño might validate the predictions of many for lots of precipitation this winter, Mother Nature counted to 3 and scolded, “Not so fast, California!” She teased us in December and January with above-average rainfall, but February was a bust. When DWR walked the media through today’s snow survey at Phillips Station, the statewide snowpack water content was just 83 percent of average for March 1, and rainfall in the Sierra since October 1 has been only about average. It looks like it’ll take another March Miracle to significantly impact this four-year drought. News Release Snow Survey video (03-01-16)
California's Reservoirs Below Historical AverageWhile a few of California’s northern reservoirs - Shasta and Oroville and Folsom - may be above 50 percent of capacity, most of the reservoirs are below 50 percent of capacity and the historical average. Reservoirs below 50 percent of capacity include New Melones at 19 percent, San Luis at 43 percent, Castaic Lake at 27 percent and Lake Perris at 35 percent. El Nino brings no guarantee of sufficient rain to end the drought. Water conservation is a key part of life in California. To view reservoir levels, visit http://cdec.water.ca.gov/cdecapp/resapp/getResGraphsMain.action (02-26-16)
Experts Discuss Water Year 2016 OperationsWhat will water year 2016 bring for California? DWR's experts on February 23 provided a briefing on the status of drought and hydrologic conditions, weather and climate prospects, runoff forecasts and expected State Water Project operations, with updates from the Bureau of Reclamation on Central Valley Project operations and from NASA on land subsidence monitoring. Sponsored by DWR and the Water Education Foundation at the Sacramento Convention Center, the event was attended by members of the media, elected officials, water district managers, farmers, environmentalists, attorneys, consultants, engineers, business executives and public interest groups. (02-23-16)
Keep Your Sprinklers OffCalifornia’s rainy weather has not ended the possibility of a fifth year of drought, but it has soaked our landscapes in most parts of the state and reminds us to keep sprinklers off. All Californians can benefit from the latest storms by allowing nature to water our landscapes and keeping sprinklers off until the soil dries. For more tips on how to save water, visit saveourwater.com (02-16-16)
Improving Habitat at Lake OrovilleLake Oroville's habitat is getting better for fish thanks to the helpful hands of the California Conservation Corps members who placed 1400 Christmas trees at the lake during the last two weeks of January. The trees provide a place for fish to hide from predators. The trees placed at Bidwell Canyon Boat Launch area and the Afterbay are expected to last about 15 years before decomposing. As sponsor of the yearly project that began 20 years ago, DWR also coordinates with Chico Boy Scout Troop 2, Recology and California Department of Fish and Wildlife. (02-10-16)
Wet January Leads to Better SnowpackDWR’s media-oriented snow survey on February 2 confirmed what Californians’ already knew: It rained and snowed a lot more this January than last. The water content at the Phillips snow survey course in the Sierra Nevada was measured today at 25.4 inches, 130 percent of normal for the early-February survey. The state’s reservoirs also reflect the improved precipitation this year. Lake Oroville has risen more than 70 feet in the last month, but it is only at 44 percent of its capacity. The drought is not over, and water conservation is still the norm. News Release Video (02-02-16)
Solving the PuzzleTo help find solutions to the many pieces of the puzzle of California’s new water realities, DWR experts joined state, federal and other agencies in panel discussions at the California Irrigation Institute’s 54th annual meeting on January 25 and 26 in Sacramento. DWR staff presented information about the State Drought Response Plan, the State Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance, making conservation a way of life and updates on urban water conservation statewide. (01-26-16)
Flood Prepare California! Even during DroughtWith rain totals rising across the state and the snowpack growing in the Sierra, it may be easy to forget California is still in the grips of an historic drought. And, with California suffering the effects of drought, it may be easy to assume you aren’t at risk for catastrophic flooding. But the truth is, in California, drought and catastrophic flooding go hand in hand. So, while you continue to conserve water throughout this rain season, Flood Prepare California! Watch this Public Service Announcement, brought to you from the California Department of Water Resources and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Sacramento District. View PSA at https://vimeo.com/145184295 and in Spanish at https://vimeo.com/145205820 (01-19-16)
Moving Toward Sustainable Water ManagementGovernor Brown highlighted progress of his California Water Action Plan at a January 14 Sacramento meeting with State, local and private water officials. Other speakers at the event hosted by the Association of California Water Agencies included Natural Resources Secretary John Laird, DWR Director Mark Cowin, Fish and Wildlife Director Charlton Bonham and Felicia Marcus, Chair of the State Water Resources Control Board. Steps cited as progress toward a more resilient water system included passage of Proposition 1, enactment of the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act and authorization of $2.7 billion for increased water storage. News Release (01-14-16)
Truckee River Operating Agreement in EffectTo celebrate the execution of the landmark Truckee River Operating Agreement this month, DWR and other major TROA signatories—the U.S. Department of Interior, the states of California and Nevada, the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe and the Truckee Meadows Water Authority gathered on January 5, 2016 in Reno. TROA’s implementation resolves more than a century of water rights conflict and creates an interstate allocation between California and Nevada for the waters of the Lake Tahoe, Carson and Truckee River basins. (01-05-16)
