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Public Affairs Office
1416 9th Street, Room 204
Sacramento CA 95814
Phone: (916) 653-6192
Fax: (916) 653-4684
1416 9th Street, Room 204
Sacramento CA 95814
Phone: (916) 653-6192
Fax: (916) 653-4684
NOTE: This information
may have been superseded by later news releases. These items are listed
here for archive purposes, only.
| DWR Announces First Snow Survey Results of 2009/2010 Winter Season The Department of Water Resources (DWR) first snow survey of the 2009/2010 winter season indicates snow water content is 85 percent of normal for the date, statewide. This time last year, snow water content was 76 percent of normal statewide. (12/30/2009)  News Release...
Reservoir Storage Graphic...
Video: Dec. 30, 2009 Phillips Station Sampling...
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| State Water Project Pipeline Fails Near Livermore SACRAMENTO -- The Department of Water Resources (DWR) is assessing damage and planning repairs to a section of five foot diameter State Water Project (SWP) pipeline that failed yesterday afternoon near Livermore. (12/23/2009) News Release...
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| DWR Director Responds to Federal Action Plan for Delta Department of Water Resources (DWR) Director Lester Snow today issued the linked statement in response to the release of the Interim Federal Action Plan for the California Bay-Delta. (12/22/2009) News Release...
DOI Press Release...
CA Water Work Plan...
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| DWR Schedules First Snow Survey of 2009-2010 Season The California Department of Water Resources (DWR) will conduct its first snow survey of the new winter season at 11 a.m., Wednesday, December 30, 2009. (12/22/2009) News Release...
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| DWR Sets Grant Funding Meetings The Department of Water Resources has scheduled two January workshops to solicit comments on the Draft Guidelines and Proposal Solicitation Packages (PSP) prepared for Local Groundwater Assistance (LGA) and Proposition 50 Supplemental Integrated Regional Water Management (IRWM) funding. (12/03/2009) News Release...
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| DWR Announces Scoping Meetings for Public Input on the North Bay Aqueduct Project The Department of Water Resources (DWR) has scheduled three scoping meetings to solicit comments on the scope and the content of the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) associated with the North Bay Aqueduct Alternative Intake Project (NBA AIP). (12/02/2009) Meeting Announcement...
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| DWR Releases Initial 2010 State Water Project Allocation The Department of Water Resources (DWR) today announced an initial allocation of five percent of total contracted water deliveries to the State Water Project (SWP) contractors for 2010. Five percent is the lowest initial allocation percentage since the SWP began delivering water in 1967. (12/01/2009) Press Release...
Current reservoir conditions...
Reservoir carryover storage...
Allocation analysis chart...
November 30, 2009 drought report...
Allocation chart by year...
Lake Oroville Sept. 16, 2009 marina...
Lake Oroville Sept. 16, 2009 bridge...
Link to B-roll of low reservoirs for media...
Windows Media Video of Lake Oroville...
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| Preliminary estimates of funding available by region for 2010 water bond DWR has compiled a preliminary breakdown of estimated funding available by region as stated in the Safe, Clean, and Reliable Drinking Water Supply Act of 2010. Californians will vote on the $11.14 billion bond in November 2010. (11/24/2009) Estimated Regional Bond Funding Breakdown...
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| Welcome to the IEP's website! The IEP has conducted coordinated studies about the causes for the recent rapid decline of four pelagic fish species (“POD”) since 2005. The number of peer reviewed POD publications has been steadily rising. In 2009, 14 papers have been published, with more on the way. Read More... (11/23/2009) For More information:...
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| State Legislature passes historic package to solve California's water crisis Early this morning the California state Legislature passed an historic package of bills and a bond proposal that are designed to both ensure a reliable and clean water supply for future generations, but also restore the ecologically sensitive areas of the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. The bills will also create a Delta Council, a Delta Plan, stricter groundwater monitoring and enforcement of illegal diversions, more ambitious water conservation policy, and water recycling and conservation programs. (11/04/2009) Governor's statement...
Policy bills and bond summaries...
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| California Water Plan Update The Department of Water Resources has extended the public comment period on its five-year update of the California Water Plan through April 15, 1998. (10/23/2009) more......
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| DWR Hosts 2010 Winter Outlook Workshop As part of efforts to address California’s drought, the Department of Water Resources will hold a Winter Outlook Workshop (WOW) on November 3, 2009, in San Diego. The workshop will bring together research meteorologists and climate scientists to provide water managers with a discussion of prospects for Water Year 2010 water supply conditions. (10/21/2009) News Release...
Agenda...
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| DWR Announces Water Information Management Symposium The Western States Water Council and the Department of Water Resources will hold a Water Information Management Symposium in San Diego on November 17-19, with a special focus on climate change adaptation. (10/19/2009) News Release...
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| CVFPP Presentations to Local and Regional Jurisdictions The CVFMP Program is currently scheduling presentations to officials in local and regional jurisdictions to inform them about the Central Valley Flood Protection Plan (CVFPP) and activities to develop it currently underway. These presentations are in conjunction with presentations to county public works and planning departments. The presentation will provide counties with a program overview and allow for questions or feedback on the CVFPP development process. Each presentation is intended to be approximately 20 minutes in length. Links to the first four meetings scheduled are below. (10/14/2009) Madera Co. Water Advisory Commission (10/15/09)...
Colusa County Supervisors (10/20/09)...
Stanislaus County Supervisors (11/3/09)...
Glenn County Supervisors (12/1/09)...
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| CA Water Plan Update 2009 Plenary Meeting Lester Snow, director of the Department of Water Resources, will present for the first time the Director’s Message for the Water Plan Highlights at next week’s Plenary. He is first on the agenda on Thursday, Oct. 15, at 9 a.m., which is the second day of the Plenary. The last Plenary Session of Water Plan Update 2009 will be held Wednesday and Thursday, Oct. 14 and 15, at the Sacramento Radisson Hotel. Attendees will review Update 2009 Highlights and Resource Management Strategies Recommendations before the document is released to the public. Registration for the Plenary is $15 each day. Please RSVP to Ginny Sajac at (916) 653-7101 or by e-mail at vsajac@water.ca.gov. (10/13/2009) Agenda and more......
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| Newly Formed Agricultural Stewardship Scope Definition Subcommittee will Meet October 20 An Agricultural Stewardship Scope Definition Joint Subcommittee has been established to identify the agricultural community’s concerns, goals and objectives, and principles for integration into the Central Valley Flood Protection Plan for 2012. The subcommittee’s first meeting is scheduled for October 20, 2009, in West Sacramento. During this meeting, the group will discuss its role and anticipated work products, define the concept of “agricultural stewardship”, and review and expand upon the problems and challenges related to the relationship between agriculture and flood control in the Central Valley. The subcommittee will meet up to three times through November 2009. Meeting details and the group’s charter are linked below. (10/13/2009) Meeting 1 - October 20, 2009...
Subcommittee Charter...
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| DWR Applauds Yuba River Accord The Department of Water Resources today applauded the Lower Yuba River Accord which provides water for fisheries, farmers and cities. (10/06/2009) Newsrelease...
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| New water year begins tomorrow, conservation is key to addressing potential fourth year of drought Tomorrow marks the beginning of the 2009-10 water year, and as California ends its third year of drought and the potential for a fourth consecutive year looms, the need for water conservation is more critical than ever. DWR is partnering with the Association of California Water Agencies on the "Save Our Water" program that aims to educate Californians on the easy ways they can conserve water in their businesses and homes, both indoors and outdoors. (09/30/2009) Save Our Water News Release...
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| U.S. Secretary Salazar, California Officials to Hold Public Forum on California’s Water Challenges ***Update: Agenda posted*** Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar will host a public meeting in Washington, D.C. on Sept. 30 with federal and California officials to discuss strategies for addressing a range of water supply challenges facing the state. Joining the Secretary will be Deputy Secretary of the Interior David J. Hayes, Interior’s Director of the Pacific Region David Nawi and Director of California Department of Water Resources Lester Snow. This is the second of two public forums being held by the Interior Department to address California Water Issues. (09/29/2009) News Advisory...
Agenda...
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| DWR to Open New Low-Water Boat Launch Ramp at Lake Oroville The Department of Water Resources (DWR) has scheduled a 10 a.m. Sept. 25 ribbon-cutting ceremony to unveil its new Lake Oroville low-water boat launch ramp at the Bidwell Canyon Marina, 801 Bidwell Canyon Road, Oroville. (09/23/2009) News Release...
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| DWR Issues Updated Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance The Department of Water Resources (DWR) has released an updated Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (Model Ordinance) to assist local governments in reducing water waste in landscapes. (09/17/2009) News Release...
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| Salmon Festival Returns to Oroville for 15th Year The public is invited to attend the 15th annual Oroville Salmon Festival Friday, Sept. 25 and Saturday, Sept. 26 at the Feather River Nature Center. Sponsored by the Department of Water Resources (DWR), Department of Fish and Game (DFG), and each organization mentioned below, the two-day festival will celebrate the yearly return of Feather River salmon and provide the public with an opportunity to learn more about these majestic fish. (09/09/2009) News Release...
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| Gov. Schwarzenegger urges re-consultation with federal government on fish biological opinions Gov. Schwarzenegger sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar urging for re-consultation on the two biological opinions for Delta smelt and salmon. The biological opinions contain operational restrictions that limit how much can be pumped out of the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, which provides drinking water to two-thirds of Californians. The Governor asserts that the biological opinions conflict and could result in far greater cuts in water supply than is necessary to protect the at-risk fish species. (09/02/2009) Governor's letter to Sec. Salazar...
May 2009 DWR letter to USFW...
August 2009 DWR letter to NMFS...
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| DWR Offers Virtual Course on Climate, Drought, and Remote Sensing The Department of Water Resources (DWR) is offering a webcast of a climate training course for water agencies at: http://www.water.ca.gov/climatechange/training-061709.cfm. DWR hosted the June 2009 training on Climate, Drought, and Remote Sensing provided by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the U.S. Geological Survey. NOAA’s National Integrated Drought Information System program and the National Weather Service (NWS) Climate Services Division sponsored the event as part of pilot efforts to tailor existing NWS climate training services to user needs, in anticipation of potential development of a national climate service. (09/02/2009) Announcement...
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| DWR, ACWA celebrate 'Save Our Water' Day at the California State Fair State water leaders came together today to call on Californians to increase their water conservation as the 2009 water year draws to an end. Proclaiming Sept. 1 as “Save Our Water Day” at the California State Fair, officials from the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) and the state’s leading water association asked local communities to pledge to increase conservation efforts. (09/01/2009) News Release...
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| DWR Announces Public Workshops re. Draft Recommendations for Region Acceptance Process The Department of Water Resources (DWR) has scheduled three workshops to solicit comments on the Integrated Regional Water Management (IRWM) Program Region Acceptance Process (RAP) draft recommendations. The RAP is a component of the IRWM Program Guidelines and will be used to evaluate and accept an IRWM region into the IRWM grant program. Acceptance and approval of the composition of an IRWM region into the IRWM grant program will be required before any region can submit an application for IRWM grant funds. The Final RAP document was released on March 11, 2009. (08/31/2009) Announcement...
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| DWR Announces Lake Oroville Youth Event The Department of Water Resources (DWR), in partnership with the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR), the Department of Boating and Waterways (DBW), the Department of Fish and Game (DFG), CAL FIRE and the C.A.S.T. for Kids Foundation will sponsor a “Catch a Special Thrill” event on Saturday, September 12th, at Lake Oroville. The event will run from 7 a.m. until 2 p.m. beginning with a pancake breakfast for 40 young people provided by the Oroville Kiwanis Organization. (08/31/2009) News Release...
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| Bradford Island Levee Repairs Complete, No Threat to State’s Water Supply Update 8/31/09 -- Repairs to fix a damaged levee on Bradford Island in the west Delta are complete, and there is now no threat of an breach, according to DWR's flood management division. The National Weather Service has called off its Flood Watch alert, the U.S. Coast Guard has ceased maintaining a 5 m.ph. wake zone and DWR has deactivated its Flood Operations Center. (08/31/2009) news release...
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| Governor Schwarzenegger Speaks at the Groundbreaking for the Star Bend Setback Levee Sutter County -- Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today participated in a groundbreaking for the Star Bend Setback Levee in Sutter County, an important project for improving local and regional flood protection that he expedited last year. Funding for the project was fast-tracked in February 2008 when Gov. Schwarzenegger released $211 million in Prop 1E funding for four early implementation projects. The Lower Feather River Setback Levee project received $16.3 million of that funding, which Levee District One in Sutter County used to help speed up their construction timeline. (08/24/2009) News Release...
Event Photo: Governor...
Event Photo: Groundbreaking...
More Info (Governor's Website)...
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| Visit three new DWR websites! DWR has launched updated websites for the Fish Passage Improvement Program, Urban Streams Restoration Program, and Watershed Program. We invite you to visit the sites often to find information on current and past projects, opportunities to obtain restoration funding, and more! Feel free to explore the sites and send feedback to msheely@water.ca.gov. (08/23/2009) Fish Passage Improvement Program...
Urban Streams Restoration Program...
Watershed Program...
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| DWR Announces Comment Period for Plumbing Design Standards The Department of Water Resources (DWR), Water Use & Efficiency Branch proposes to adopt changes to building standards contained in the California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 24, Part 5. (08/19/2009) More...
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| Complete archived video of California Water Issues Forum now available The complete archived video of yesterday's live webcast of the California Water Issues Forum hosted by U.S. Deputy Sec. of the Interior David Hayes and DWR Director Lester Snow is now online. Presentations are also available to download and view. Hayes and Snow held the meeting to give an update on the coordinated federal and state efforts to address California’s many water challenges, including current drought conditions and the projects and plans to fix the Delta. (08/13/2009) Complete webcast video...
Agenda...
Water conditions presentation...
Ecosystem conditions presentation...
Delta Sustainability presentation...
Delta Vision presentation...
BDCP presentation...
BDCP environmental review presentation...
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| DWR Will Conduct Controlled Burn to Improve Operation of Weir The Department of Water Resources (DWR) will conduct a controlled burn of grass and weeds in the West Sacramento area on either Thursday, August 13 or Friday, August 14 in preparation for a sediment removal project at the Sacramento Weir. (08/13/2009) Press Release...
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| U.S. Deputy Interior Secretary Hayes, DWR Director Lester Snow to Hold Public Meeting Update 2:20pm: The connection has been interrupted for the live webcast of this meeting. DWR is working to resolve the issue and hopes to have the connection working shortly. A complete archived video of the meeting will be available by noon tomorrow, August 13. U.S. Deputy Secretary of the Interior David J. Hayes and the Director of California Department of Water Resources Lester Snow will hold a public meeting to discuss California’s water challenges and Delta related issues on Wednesday, August 12, 2009, in downtown Sacramento. (08/12/2009) Meeting Notice...
Agenda...
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| DWR Director Responds to Gov. Schwarzenegger’s Signing of AB 1550 Department of Water Resources (DWR) Director Lester Snow issued a statement regarding Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s signing of AB 1550 by the Committee on Banking and Finance. (08/06/2009) Statement...
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| *APPLICATION DEADLINES EXTENDED TO AUG 5* Levee Performance & Climate Change Scope Def'n Work Groups DWR has extended the deadline to for volunteers to submit applications to participate in the Levee Performance Scope Definition and Climate Change Scope Definition work groups. Members of these work groups will provide input to the development of the Central Valley Flood Protection Plan. The purpose of the groups is to identify existing problems and expected future challenges related to levee performance and climate change, respectively, and key factors that affect them; develop a list of available documents for use as reference materials; and produce and maintain a comprehensive list of levee performance or climate change evaluation activities to coordinate with DWR during development of the plan. Both work groups will be chartered separately with specific goals and professionally facilitated. Participants should expect to meet twice per month, with some outside reading. The deadline to submit applications is Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2009. The work group apps and charters are linked below. (07/31/2009) Levee Performance Scope Def'n Work Group App...
Levee Performance Scope Def'n Work Group Charter...
Climate Change Scope Def'n Work Group Application...
Climate Change Scope Def'n Work Group Charter...
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| Applications Available for Operations & Maintenance Scope Definition Work Group DWR is currently recruiting volunteers to provide input to the development of the Central Valley Flood Protection Plan through the Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Scope Definition Work Group. The purpose of the work group is to identify the scope of existing and likely future challenges for operation and maintenance of the State-federal flood control system to be addressed in development of the Central Valley Flood Protection Plan. This work group will coordinate closely with DWR’s existing collaborative group for ongoing levee maintenance needs. The work group will be chartered with specific goals and professionally facilitated. Work group participants should expect to meet twice per month, with some outside reading. The deadline to submit applications is August 10, 2009. The O&M Scope Definition Work Group charter and application are linked below. (07/29/2009) O&M Scope Definition Work Group Charter...
O&M Scope Definition Work Group Application...
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| DWR Schedules August 19 Bakersfield Drought Workshop The Department of Water Resources (DWR) will hold a workshop in Bakersfield August 19 to provide updates about small water system drought response activities. The workshop will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the offices of the City of Bakersfield Water Resources Department at 1000 Buena Vista Road. (07/28/2009) News Release...
Agenda...
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| Regional Conditions Work Groups to Begin Meeting in August Central Valley Flood Protection Plan Regional Conditions Work Groups will hold their initial meetings in early August. Meeting dates, by region, are linked below. Chartered and facilitated by DWR, each Regional Conditions Work Group includes people who represent a range of perspectives, including levee districts, water districts, recreation and environmental groups, agriculture, business, and local government. Work group membership was developed through an application process that sought to provide a balance of participant perspectives. The Regional Conditions Work Groups will meet up to 10 times to develop draft content for the Regional Conditions Summary Report. The draft Regional Conditions Summary Report is scheduled to be completed by November 2009. Other work groups currently forming include: • Environmental Stewardship Scope Definition • Climate Change Scope Definition • Operations and Maintenance Scope Definition • Levee Performance Scope Definition (07/22/2009) Upper San Joaquin Region - Monday, August 3...
Lower San Joaquin Region - Tuesday, August 4...
Delta Region - Tuesday, August 4...
Upper Sacramento Region - Wednesday, August 5...
Lower Sacramento Region - Thursday, August 6...
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| Applications Available for TWO Scope Definition Work Groups - Levee Performance & Climate Change DWR is currently recruiting volunteers to provide input to the development of the Central Valley Flood Protection Plan through two Scope Definition Work Groups: (1) Levee Performance and (2) Climate Change. The purpose of both work groups is to identify key factors that affect levee performance or climate change, respectively; identify existing problems and expected future challenges related to these subjects; develop an updated and comprehensive list of available documents to use as relevant reference material; and produce and maintain a comprehensive list of levee performance or climate change evaluation activities to coordinate with DWR during development of the Central Valley Flood Protection Plan. Work groups will be chartered separately with specific goals and professionally facilitated. Participants should expect to meet twice per month, with some outside reading. The deadline to submit applications is Monday, July 27, 2009. Work group charters and applications linked below. (07/21/2009) Levee Performance Scope Def'n Work Group Charter...
Levee Performance Scope Def'n Work Group App...
Climate Change Scope Def'n Work Group Charter...
Climate Change Scope Def'n Work Group Application...
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| DWR Requests Qualification Proposals for Funding SBxx1 Projects The Department of Water Resources is requesting proposals from local agencies within the Delta region that have water projects which qualify for the funding appropriated in Senate Bill xx1. (07/21/2009) Announcement...
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| DWR Schedules Drought Workshops for Ukiah, Santa Rosa The Department of Water Resources will hold workshops in Ukiah and Santa Rosa this month to provide updates about drought impacts and response activities. The Ukiah workshop will take place July 29 from 1:30 - 5 p.m. at the Mendocino County Water Agency, 890 Bush Street. The Santa Rosa workshop will take place July 30 from 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. in the Santa Rosa State Building at 50 D Street. (07/14/2009) Ukiah...
Santa Rosa...
Press Release...
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| Notice of Public Negotiation Session DWR, Dudley Ridge Water District, and Mojave Water Agency will participate in a Public Negotiating Session on July 23, 2009 during a Mojave Water Agency Board of Directors meeting, to discuss proposed amendments to the long-term Water Supply Contracts between DWR and Dudley Ridge Water District, and between DWR and Mojave Water Agency. (07/08/2009) Notice...
More...
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| Environmental Stewardship Scope Definition Work Group - APPLICATION PERIOD EXTENDED TO JULY 24, 2009 DWR is currently recruiting volunteers to provide input to the development of the Central Valley Flood Protection Plan through the Environmental Stewardship Scope Definition Work Group. The purpose of this work group is to identify principles and objectives of an environmental stewardship and conservation strategy that should be considered as part of integrated flood management, issues of concern within the project area, and available opportunities to address environmental stewardship and conservation objectives within the Central Valley Flood Protection Plan. The work group will be chartered with specific goals and professionally facilitated. Work group participants should expect to meet twice per month, with some outside reading. **THE DEADLINE TO SUBMIT AN APPLICATION HAS BEEN EXTENDED TO FRIDAY, JULY 24, 2009.** The Environmental Stewardship Scope Definition Work Group charter and application are linked below. (07/03/2009) Env Stewardship Scope Def'n Work Group Charter...
Env Stewardship Scope Def'n Work Group Application...
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| DWR releases California Drought, An Update, June 2009 As part of its committment to Gov. Schwarzenegger, DWR has released the June 2009 California Drought Update, which monitors and reports on the current water supply impacts and conditions of California's drought. (07/01/2009) Drought Report Update June 2009...
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| DWR Encourages Responsible Water Use During Lakes and Reservoirs Appreciation Week The Department of Water Resources (DWR) encourages Californians to "Save Our Water" and protect waterways from pollution during Lakes and Reservoirs Appreciation Week July 1-7. (06/26/2009) Advisory...
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| Regional Conditions Work Groups - Application Period Extended to July 3, 2009 DWR is currently recruiting volunteers to provide input to the development of the Central Valley Flood Protection Plan, including participation in one of five Regional Conditions Work Groups. The purpose of the Regional Conditions Work Groups is to help develop content for the Regional Conditions Summary Report, which will be a key component of the Central Valley Flood Protection Plan. Each Work Group will be chartered with specific goals and professionally facilitated. The estimated minimum time commitment has been reduced to 16 hours per month to accommodate busy schedules. Work group participants should expect to meet two times per month, with some outside reading. The Regional Conditions Work Group application deadline has been extended to Friday, July 3, 2009 to accommodate requests for more information. Regional Conditions Work Group application and charters are linked below. (06/25/2009) Regional Conditions Work Group Application...
Delta Regional Conditions Work Group Charter...
Upper Sac Regional Conditions Work Group Charter...
Lower Sac Regional Conditions Work Group Charter...
Upper SJ Regional Conditions Work Group Charter...
Lower SJ Regional Conditions Work Group Charter...
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| DWR Schedules San Diego Drought Response Workshop The Department of Water Resources will hold a San Diego workshop on June 30, 2009, to provide updates on drought impacts and response activities. Scheduled from 9:30 a.m. until noon, the workshop will take place in the Gallegos Room of Caltrans Building One at 4050 Taylor Street in San Diego, (06/23/2009) Press Release...
Agenda...
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| Franks Tract Project Scoping Report Released Sacramento -- DWR and USBR have released “Scoping Report” for the Franks Tract Project. The report outlines the NEPA/CEQA process, the scoping efforts, and the comments received during the scoping period. The report is available for download on the project website. (06/17/2009) Project Website...
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| DWR Will Boost Feather River Flows To Help Salmon The Department of Water Resources (DWR) will increase flows in the Low Flow Channel (LFC) of the Feather River June 15 to help Chinook salmon. DWR is hopeful that the action will help attract more spring-run Chinook to the Feather River Fish Hatchery near Oroville. (06/12/2009) Press Release...
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| DWR Hosts Lake Del Valle ‘CAST for Kids’ on Saturday, June 13 The Department of Water Resources (DWR) will sponsor a C.A.S.T. (Catch a Special Thrill) for kid’s event on Saturday, June 13, at Alameda County's Lake Del Valle. (06/11/2009) Press Release...
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| DWR Responds to New Biological Opinion to Protect Salmon The Department of Water Resources (DWR) today responded to the new biological opinion by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) intended to protect salmon and several other species. (06/04/2009) Press Release......
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| DWR Named 'Climate Action Leader' The California Department of Water Resources (DWR) has been named a "Climate Action Leader" by the California Climate Action Registry (CCAR). CCAR member organizations earn this special recognition by calculating, disclosing, and independently verifying their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. (06/02/2009) Press Release......
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| Outdoor Recreation Lures Anglers, Boaters, Campers to Lake Oroville Lake Oroville is a prime destination for those seeking outstanding outdoor recreation this summer. "Lake Oroville offers a full agenda of summer lake recreation, with pleasant boating, excellent fishing and convenient camping," said John Ford, the Department of Water Resources' (DWR) tour guide at Oroville Dam. Biking, hiking and horseback riding are also available near the DWR reservoir in northern California's scenic Butte County. The keystone of California's State Water Project, Lake Oroville is surpassed in size only by the Bureau of Reclamation's Lake Shasta near Redding. Within driving range of northern California urban centers, Lake Oroville offers a country atmosphere just 75 miles north of Sacramento. It can be reached via State Highway 70 or US 99. Floating campsites and two major marinas are big attractions for vacationers. (06/01/2009) News Release...
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| DWR Schedules Public Workshops for Release of AB 1420 Grant Compliance Document DWR will conduct three public workshops in June to present information on the AB 1420 compliance and eligibility requirements for Urban Water Suppliers who may request water management project loans or grant funds. (06/01/2009) Press Release...
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| DWR is now on Facebook The Department of Water Resources has joined Facebook. The DWR Facebook page will offer a new way for people to learn about our department and keep up to date on news, happenings and events. Browse our new page and become a fan of DWR on Facebook. Just go to facebook.com and search for California Department of Water Resources, or click the headline above for the link. (05/27/2009) DWR Facebook page...
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| Third Draft Interim Levee Design Criteria for Urban and Urbanizing Area State-Federal Project Levees DWR announces release of the Third Draft Interim Levee Design Criteria for Urban and Urbanizing Area State-Federal Project Levees. This document, containing refinements based on public comment, supersedes the second draft (August 2008). The Third Draft proposes levee design criteria to help local communities achieve protection from a 200-year flood event, with a 0.5% chance of occurring in any year. Per SB 5, urban/urbanizing areas in the Sacramento and San Joaquin Valleys (excluding Tulare Lake Basin) must achieve, or make adequate progress toward achieving, 200-year protection by 2015 to continue approving development in the floodplain. Responses to comments on the August 2008 draft and a summary of substantial changes are also available. DWR will continue working with stakeholders to refine levee design and other criteria related to providing 200-year level protection and develop the Central Valley Flood Protection Plan. (For more information, please visit the program website.) (05/22/2009) Third Draft Interim Levee Design Criteria...
Responses to Comments on the Second Draft...
Summary of the Substantial Changes to Second Draft...
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| DWR Raises SWP Deliveries to 40 Percent The Department of Water Resources (DWR) announced today that it will increase the 2009 State Water Project (SWP) delivery allocation from 30 percent to 40 percent. Long-term SWP contractors will see an increase from 1,249,913 acre-feet to 1,666,550 acre-feet. This is the final allocation for the calendar year. (05/20/2009) Press Release...
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| Water Board Eases Deliveries to Drought-Stricken Areas State Water Resources Control Board today approved “place of use” changes allowing DWR’s State Water Project (SWP) and the Bureau of Reclamation’s Central Valley Project (CVP) to deliver water in one another’s service areas. DWR and the Bureau of Reclamation jointly filed a petition on March 20 to “consolidate” their delivery areas downstream of Delta pumping facilities. The total quantity of water delivered to SWP or CVP contractors as a result of the change will not exceed historic deliveries to any individual water user or be applied to any service areas that do not already receive water from the SWP or CVP. The approval makes it easier to deliver water to critically dry areas and implement the Drought Water Bank. (05/19/2009) |
| Media Given Look at Non-Physical “Bubble Curtain” Barrier Preliminary results show that an experimental, non-physical fish barrier is working to help keep young Chinook salmon and steelhead in a more direct path to the ocean and away from agricultural diversion and the state and federal pumping plants. The Department of Water Resources (DWR) is piloting the “bubble curtain” barrier project that combines acoustics and a strobe-lit sheet of bubbles to create an underwater wall of light and sound at frequencies that repel juvenile Chinook salmon. View photos from bubble barrier media event. (05/18/2009) Map from Bay Bridge...
Map from Sacramento...
Press Release...
Photo 1...
Photo 2...
Photo 3...
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| Central Valley Flood Management Planning Program Regional Forums DWR will host the first round of Regional Forums in early June to gather and share information about the Central Valley Flood Management Planning (CVFMP) Program, a State-led program to help improve understanding about our mutual flood risk and to inventory and assess the current flood protection system. This program will also develop the Central Valley Flood Protection Plan, which will include recommendations for action to improve integrated flood management in the Central Valley. At the forums, DWR will discuss plans for communications and engagement and will begin developing plan content in cooperation with forum participants. All interested parties are encouraged to attend. Another key objective of these forums is to begin forming Topic Work Groups and Regional Work Groups to ensure continued engagement in this process. More information about these Work Groups will be available at the Regional Forums. (05/15/2009) Upper Sacramento – June 3 (Wed) - Afternoon...
Upper Sacramento – June 3 (Wed) - Evening...
Lower San Joaquin – June 4 (Thurs) Afternoon...
Lower San Joaquin – June 4 (Thurs) Evening...
Delta – June 8 (Mon) - Afternoon...
Delta - June 8 (Mon) Evening...
Upper San Joaquin – June 9 (Tues) -Afternoon...
Upper San Joaquin – June 9 (Tues) - Evening...
Lower Sacramento – June 10 (Wed) - Afternoon...
Lower Sacramento – June 10 (Wed) - Evening...
News Release...
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| DWR Proposes Water Efficient Landscape Regulation Text The Department of Water Resources (DWR) is releasing proposed text for the Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance Proposed Regulation for public review. DWR will accept written public comments on the proposed text through May 26, 2009. (05/13/2009) More Information...
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| DWR Announces Local Groundwater Assistance Technical Advisory Panel Meeting The Department of Water Resources (DWR) announces a Local Groundwater Assistance (LGA) Program Technical Advisory Panel (TAP) Meeting on Monday, June 1, 2009 beginning at 10 am at the Bonderson Building Hearing Room, 901 P Street, Sacramento, CA 95814. The purpose of the meeting is to take a comprehensive look at ways to improve the LGA Program including issuing Guidelines. The LGA Program assists local agencies throughout the State by providing grants to improve groundwater management by funding groundwater studies, monitoring, and management activities. More information about the program can be found at the following website: http://www.grantsloans.water.ca.gov/grants/assistance.cfm Meeting presentation material will be posted on this site. For information, contact Harley H. Davis at DWR (916) 651-9229 and hdavis@water.ca.gov. (05/07/2009) |
| DWR to Test Oroville Dam Emergency Plan The Department of Water Resources (DWR) will implement its Oroville Dam Emergency Action Plan in an all-day, internal exercise Wednesday, May 6. The exercise will simulate a catastrophic failure of the 770-foot-high structure, the tallest dam in the United States. (05/05/2009) Press Release...
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| May is Water Awareness Month With the state in its third year of drought, the Department of Water Resources (DWR) reminds Californians to use water responsibly during Water Awareness Month. A complete list of Water Awareness Month events planned around the state is included in press release. (05/04/2009) Press Release...
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| Public Review Draft of "20x2020" Water Conservation Plan Released DWR and a team of other state agencies have released the public review draft of the "20x2020" Water Conservation Plan” prepared at the Governor’s direction. This plan describes actions California can take to reduce per capita use 20% by 2020. The draft plan, and information about how to comment are posted on the 20x2020 website. (05/04/2009) 20x2020 Website...
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| DWR Announces Final Snow Survey Results for 2008-2009 The Department of Water Resources’ (DWR) final snow survey of the season indicates snowpack water content is 66 percent of normal for the date, statewide. Last year at this time snowpack was measured at 72 percent of normal, statewide. (04/30/2009) Press Release...
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| Final Snow Survey of Season Set for April 30 The California Department of Water Resources (DWR) will conduct its final snow survey of the season at 11 a.m., Thursday, April 30, near Lake Tahoe. Snow depth and water content figures should be available by 1 p.m. This survey is the last of five measurements that help water supply planners estimate the amount of spring snowmelt runoff into reservoirs. (04/28/2009) Advisory...
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| DWR Launches CVFMP Program Web Site DWR is pleased to introduce the Central Valley Flood Management Planning (CVFMP) Program web site! Visit this site regularly for program news, event information, publications, and more! We’d also like to invite you to join our new CVFMP Partner Registry. A simple, two-step registration process allows you to provide general information about you and your interests in integrated flood management topics. We’ll use the information you provide to better communicate with you and to help you manage information about CVFMP activities of particular interest to you. (04/28/2009) CVFMP Home...
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| DWR Sets Workshops on Building Dual Plumbing Design Standards The Department of Water Resources (DWR) will hold May workshops in Sacramento and San Diego to introduce draft language for Dual Plumbed buildings design standards. (04/27/2009) More Information...
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| Public Invited to Regional Forums on Central Valley Flood Management The California Department of Water Resources (DWR) will conduct a series of Regional Forums to gather and share information about the Central Valley Flood Management Planning Program. Representatives from businesses, water agencies, government agencies, California Native American interests, environmental organizations, community groups, conservancies, and the general public are strongly encouraged to attend. (04/26/2009) More Information...
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| DWR Climate Change Report Released DWR has released “Using Future Climate Projections to Support Water Resources Decision Making in California.” The report evaluates how climate change could affect the reliability of California’s water supply. The entire report and a one page summary are available for download here. For further information, please contact Francis Chung (chung@water.ca.gov) or Jamie Anderson (jamiea@water.ca.gov) (04/22/2009) Full Report...
One Page Summary...
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| "A Climate of Change" Screening The Department of Water Resources today released the mini-documentary, “A Climate of Change.” Co-produced with Water Education Foundation, the video tells the story of California’s changing climate, and what it means for the state’s water supply. Three free screenings will take place in Natural Resources Auditorium April 22. (04/22/2009) Press Release...
Climate Change Website...
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| New Statewide Water Conservation Program Launched California leaders today launched a new statewide public education program challenging individuals to do their part to “Save Our Water.” The program will educate Californians about the state’s ongoing water supply challenges and promote conservation through public service announcements, educational outreach, and a comprehensive Web site. (04/21/2009) Press Release...
DWR Drought Assistance Bond Funding...
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| DWR Announces Increase in Allocation The Department of Water Resources (DWR) has increased the 2009 State Water Project (SWP) delivery allocation to 30 percent, but extremely dry conditions persist across California. (04/16/2009) Press Release...
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| Statement from DWR Director Snow Department of Water Resources (DWR) Director Lester A. Snow today applauded Interior Secretary Ken Salazar’s announcement that the Obama administration has earmarked $260 million for California water projects. The funding is part of national infrastructure investment under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009. (04/15/2009) Statement...
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| Pelagic Organism Decline The Interagency Ecological Program (IEP), a consortium of nine state and federal agencies, has been monitoring aquatic organisms and water quality in the San Francisco estuary for decades. Since late 2004, scientific and public attention has focused on the unexpected decline of several pelagic (open-water) fishes (delta smelt, longfin smelt, juvenile striped bass, and threadfin shad) in the freshwater portion of the estuary known as the Delta. This decline has collectively become known as the Pelagic Organism Decline (POD). (04/04/2009) Pelagic Organism Decline Overview...
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| DWR Announces Fourth Snow Survey Results The Department of Water Resources’ (DWR) fourth snow survey of the winter season indicates snowpack water content is 81 percent of normal for the date, statewide.“A below-average snowpack at this time of year, especially following two consecutive dry years is a cause for concern,” said DWR Director Lester Snow. “Our most critical storage reservoirs remain low, and we face severe water supply problems in many parts of our state. Californians must continue to save water at home and in their businesses.” (04/02/2009) Press Release...
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| DWR Sends Drought Report in Response to Governor’s Feb 2009 Emergency Proclamation DWR on Monday sent Gov. Schwarzenegger “California’s Drought: Water Conditions & Strategies to Reduce Impacts” in response to his request in the Feb. 27, 2009 emergency drought proclamation. The report provides an update on the state’s drought conditions and water availability. The reports states there have been some improvements in this year’s hydrologic conditions, allocations to state and federal water contractors are expected to remain at or near record lows for the rest of 2009. As a result, many parts of California will be faced with reduced water supplies this year. Responding to conditions this year and preparing for possible future dry years are critically important to meet statewide water needs. (04/02/2009) Transmittal Letter...
Drought Update Report...
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| DWR Schedules Fourth Snow Survey of 2008-2009 Season The California Department of Water Resources (DWR) will conduct its fourth snow survey of the season at 11 AM, Thursday, April 2, 2009, near Lake Tahoe. (03/30/2009) Press Release...
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| Central Valley Flood Protection Board To Discuss Flood System Improvement Framework A multi-agency framework to address sustainable levee maintenance and flood system improvement while conserving or enhancing habitat for fish and wildlife species will be discussed tomorrow, March 27, by the Central Valley Flood Protection Board. The Framework was developed by the California Levees Roundtable, a partnership of nine State, federal and local agencies, as a short term plan to guide activities already happening and planned through 2012. (03/26/2009) Press Release and Communique...
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| DWR Releases Delta Risk Assessment The risk of Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta island flooding is likely to increase substantially over the next century according to a state report released today. The Department of Water Resources’ Delta Risk Management Strategy (DRMS) Phase 1 report assesses major risks to Delta levees from floods, seepage, subsidence and earthquakes. Reporters will be briefed by phone at 11 a.m. March 20. (03/20/2009) Press Release...
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| Allocation Announcement and Phone Briefing The Department of Water Resources (DWR) today announced it will increase the 2009 State Water Project (SWP) delivery allocation to 20 percent. Late winter storms increased snowpack to near 90 percent of normal, but water storage in the state’s major reservoirs and runoff projections remain well below average. The precipitation was only enough to allow a 5 percent increase from the initial allocation of 15 percent in December 2008. At 11:30 a.m. today Department of Water Resources Director Lester Snow will brief reporters via phone. (03/18/2009) Press Release...
Phone Briefing...
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| DWR Releases Draft EIR For East Branch Extension Work The Department of Water Resources has released the Draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the State Water Project (SWP) East Branch Extension - Phase I Improvements Project. A public meeting will be held to receive comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Report on April 7, 2009 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Yucaipa Community Center located at 34900 Oak Glen Road, Yucaipa, California 92399. (03/16/2009) Press Release...
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| Sacramento Weir Sediment Removal Public Notice The Department of Water Resources (DWR) is the Lead Agency for the Sacramento Weir Sediment Removal Project under the California Environmental Quality Act and has prepared a Draft Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration. The public comment period is open from March 12, 2009 to April 12, 2009. A public open house is not scheduled for this project. If you have concerns or wish to have a public open house, please contact DWR. (03/12/2009) Notice of Intent to Adopt a Mitigated Negative Dec...
Draft Initial Study Sacramento Weir......
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| DWR Releases Draft Compliance Document for AB 1420 Grants The Department of Water Resources (DWR) has released a Draft Compliance document detailing AB 1420 Eligibility Requirements for Urban Water Suppliers who may request water management project loan or grant funds. Water management grants and loans include programs and projects for surface water or groundwater storage, recycling, desalination, water conservation, water supply reliability and water supply augmentation. This funding includes, but is not limited to, funds made available pursuant to Public Resources Code section 75026 (Integrated Regional Water Management Program). (03/11/2009) Press Release...
Draft Compliance Website...
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| DWR Releases Final IRWM Region Acceptance Process Document The Department of Water Resources (DWR) has released the final Integrated Regional Water Management (IRWM) Region Acceptance Process (RAP) document. The RAP is a component of the Integrated Regional Water Management (IRWM) guidelines.Workshops to discuss the RAP and address questions on the submittal process will be scheduled for Sacramento and Southern California in early April. An announcement for the date and location of the workshops will be posted online. (03/11/2009) More Information...
Region Acceptance Process Website...
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| DWR and USBR Schedule Urban Drought Workshops The California Department of Water Resources and the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation announce three March workshops to help urban water suppliers address continuing dry conditions. The workshops will help suppliers review and revise their drought water usage plans and prepare for rationing, if necessary. (03/03/2009) More Information...
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| Binational Drought Science Conference The Department of Water Resources (DWR) and the Water Education Foundation (WEF) are co-sponsoring a binational conference on drought science in the U.S. – Mexico border region. The conference will be held on March 26-27 in San Diego at the Hilton San Diego Resort (03/02/2009) More Information...
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| DWR Announces Snow Survey Results The Department of Water Resources’ (DWR) third snow survey of the winter season indicates snow water content is 80 percent of normal for the date, statewide. Last year at this time, snowpack was 114 percent of normal, but the driest spring on record followed, resulting in a second consecutive dry water year. Daily electronic readings may be accessed at http://cdec.water.ca.gov/cgi-progs/snowsurvey_sno/DLYSWEQ. (03/02/2009) Press Release...
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| Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger Proclaims State of Emergency Due to Drought To combat California’s third consecutive year of drought, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today proclaimed a state of emergency and ordered immediate action to manage the crisis. In the proclamation, the Governor uses his authority to direct all state government agencies to utilize their resources, implement a state emergency plan and provide assistance for people, communities and businesses impacted by the drought. (02/27/2009) Link to Proclamation...
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| DWR Schedules Third Snow Survey of 2008-2009 Season The California Department of Water Resources (DWR) will conduct its third snow survey of the season at 11 a.m., Monday, March 2, 2009, near Lake Tahoe. January 2009 was the eighth driest on record, and due to drought conditions DWR was unable to increase its very low 15 percent initial water delivery allocation to State Water Project (SWP) contractors. Hydrologists predict the season must end at 120 to 130 percent of normal in order to replenish reservoirs, a scenario that becomes increasingly unlikely as the rainy season passes. Snow depth and water content figures should be available by 1 p.m. (02/26/2009) Press Release...
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| Water Allocation to SWP Contractors Remains Low California’s severe drought has prevented the Department of Water Resources from increasing its State Water Project delivery allocation for the first time since 2001. This year’s allocation will remain at just 15 percent of SWP contractor’s requests. The decision was made because despite recent storms, reservoir levels are low and statewide precipitation is still below normal. (02/20/2009) Oroville 2005...
Oroville 2009...
Reservoir and Precipitation Charts...
Oroville Storage Historical Chart...
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| Public Scoping Meetings Scheduled for BDCP Environmental Review Process State and federal agencies in March will host a series of statewide public scoping meetings to solicit input and participation from the public, Tribes, and agencies in the environmental review of the Bay Delta Conservation Plan (BDCP). The meetings will be an open house format to allow the public to attend at any time during the allotted time. The meetings will also provide an opportunity to discuss the current status of the BDCP. (02/18/2009) Press Release...
Meeting Flyer...
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| Natural Resources Agency to host BDCP webinar The Natural Resources Agency will hold a Bay Delta Conservation Plan (BDCP) webinar on Wednesday, Feb. 18 from 9 a.m. to noon to provide an in-depth orientation and explain the various conservation measures being considered for the BDCP. The webinar will take place in two segments: a two-hour BDCP presentation and a one-hour Q&A session. (02/13/2009) Webinar link...
Resources BDCP website...
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| NEW AQUACAST: What is a weir? California's water infrastructure is a complex entity, and DWR uses many tools to manage the state's diverse water system. Join Marianne Kirkland, Senior Engineer for DWR, as she explains one of the versatile and important hydraulic structures in California's waterways, the weir. (02/11/2009) New Aquacast...
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| Conservation Shines in A Good Reflection DWR today releases “A Good Reflection,” a thirty-second Public Service Announcement available in English and Spanish that helps create awareness of how vital water is to everything. It emphasizes that our future depends on our ability to stretch our water supply. Its goal is to encourage all Californians to conserve and protect the water we have in our care. Water agencies interested in sponsoring airtime can have their name appear in the announcement’s animated tag line. DWR’s Public Affairs Office produced this HDTV spot. Contact Mark Lambert mark@water.ca.gov for more information. (02/09/2009) A Good Reflection...
Un Buen Reflejo...
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| DWR and Bureau Send Emergency Request to Water Board The Department of Water Resources (DWR) and the Bureau of Reclamation (Bureau) today sent a letter to the State Water Resources Control Board asking for emergency modifications to certain Delta flow standards for the month of February. (02/05/2009) Press Release...
Joint Letter...
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| CA Water Plan Update 2009 Public Review Draft available The Public Review Draft of Volume 3 of the California Water Plan Update 2009 is available for review and comment. Volume 3 includes Regional Reports about the 10 hydrologic regions, the mountain counties, the Delta, and a comprehansive look at the entire state. Each report discusses the state of the region, key challenges, ongoing programs and information on water supplies and how they're used. Comments are due by June 05, 2009. (02/02/2009) more info......
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| DWR Announces Snow Survey Results The Department of Water Resources’ (DWR) second snow survey of the winter season indicates snow water content is 61 percent of normal for the date, statewide. “The low precipitation in January and snowpack results from today’s survey indicate California is heading for a third dry year,” said DWR Director Lester Snow. “We may be at the start of the worst California drought in modern history. It’s imperative for Californians to conserve water immediately at home and in their businesses.” (01/29/2009) Press Release...
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Recording Measurements...
Snow Surveyor Frank Gehrke...
Snow Course Marker...
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| Initial Study Draft Negative Declaration for Protection of Longfin Smelt Available for Review The Initial Study Draft Negative Declaration for On-going California SWP Operations in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta for the Protection of Longfin Smelt is now available for public review. This document addresses the effects of ongoing and long-term operation of the SWP on longfin smelt. The comment period will extend until February 2, 2009. Comment guidelines are found on page 3 of the document. (01/29/2009) Complete Document...
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| CA Water Plan Update 2009 Public Review Draft Volume 2 available The Public Review Draft of Update 2009's Volume 2 is now available online -- Volume 2 describes more than 27 resource management strategies to help local and regional agencies and governments manage their water and related resources. The public comment deadline is June 05, 2009. (01/26/2009) more info......
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| DWR Schedules Second Snow Survey of 2008-2009 Season The California Department of Water Resources (DWR) will conduct its second snow survey of the season at 11 a.m., Thursday, January 29, 2009, near Lake Tahoe. The results of this survey will impact future allocations. Snow depth and water content figures should be available by noon. (01/26/2009) More Information...
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| Science Program makes $8 million available through 2009 Proposal Solicitation Package Through the California Resources Agency, the CALFED Science program is seeking to fund research that will fill critical gaps in our understanding of the current and changing Bay-Delta system. The new scientific information is meant to help resource managers and policymakers make informed decisions about current and future Delta water issues such as healthy ecosystems, water quality, and conveyance and supply. A total of approximately $8 million will be available. (01/16/2009) CalFED Science Web Site...
Program Flier...
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| CA Water Plan Update 2009 Public Review Draft available The Department of Water Resources is pleased to release for broad review and comment the Public Review Draft of the California Water Plan Update 2009: Integrated Water Management, which is truly becoming the state’s Water Plan. It has benefited from the first interagency Steering Committee representing 21 state government agencies with jurisdictions over different aspects of water resources, and it integrates their companion plans and initiatives. In addition, a 45-member Advisory Committee, expanded regional outreach, greater involvement of California Native American Tribes, and coordination with federal agencies provided broad participation in preparing this draft plan. (01/07/2009) Rollout Schedule flyer...
CA Water Plan Update 2009 Public Review Draft...
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