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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
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The 2009 ACWA Fall Conference The Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA) represents hundreds of California water agencies responsible for delivering 90% of California's water. Throughout the year, ACWA hosts conferences to discuss the State's water issues and develop plans and solutions to help manage California's water. The Fall conference was held during the first week of December, and in case you missed it, this week's Aquacast features speakers from the conference, including Governor Schwarzenegger.  Formats:
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The San Vicente Dam Raise Project This week on the Aquacast, we're focusing again on the Division of Safety of Dams. One of their biggest projects right now is the San Vicente Dam Raise project in San Diego County. This dam raise will more than double the water storage of the reservoir, and is the largest dam raise project in US history. Join Mark Schultz, a DSOD Supervising Engineer, as he talks about this massive project and what makes it so unique. Formats:
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The Division of Safety of Dams 80th Anniversary The Division of Safety of Dams has been protecting California since before the Department of Water Resources existed, and last month the division celebrated its 80th anniversary. Join Bill Fraser, Chief of the DSOD's Geology Branch, as he talks about the why the division was created, and how it has evolved over the last eight decades. Formats:
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A New Climate Training Webcast is Online The webcast of a training program by NOAA and the USGS is now being offered online at DWR's website. Join Jeanine Jones, Interstate Resources Manager for the department to learn what the meeting was about, and head to www.water.ca.gov//climatechange/ to view the multimedia webcast. Formats:
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August 2009 Water Press Conference, Part Three Part three of the Water Press Conference Aquacast with Eric Alvarez highlights some of the key speakers at the event, including Governor Schwarzenegger, Senator Dave Cogdill, and Assembly Member Anna Caballeros, all of whom call for a solution to the state's water crisis. Formats:
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August 2009 Water Press Conference, Part Two Part two of this week's Aquacast with Eric Alvarez features a speaker from the press conference and a key activist for the California Latino Water Coalition, Paul Rodriguez, who explains why the water shortage situation is so frustrating for Central Valley farmers. Formats:
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August 2009 Water Press Conference, Part One As California's water shortage continues to strain the state's agriculture industry, calls for a solution are getting louder. On Tuesday the 18th of August, 2009, the California Latino Water Coalition held a press conference at the capitol to focus on the water crisis. Join Eric Alvarez for part one of this three part Aquacast as he speaks to some of the participants at the conference. Formats:
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The SWP's East Branch Extension The State Water Project has been delivering water to Californians for nearly 50 years, but DWR is always working to improve efficiency and ensure that places that need water are getting it. The East Branch Extension is the newest part of the SWP, and Sue Sims, Chief of Public Affairs, was recently given a tour. Join Sue as she talks about the tour and explains how the extension will supply many Southern Californians. Formats:
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What are people doing to conserve water? This week, the Aquacast takes a stroll around downtown to ask some Sacramento locals about how they help conserve water. Formats:
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The Midyear 2009 Drought Update Back in June, DWR released the 2009 California Drought Update, a report on current water supply conditions and drought impacts in the state. Join Jeanine Jones, Interstate Resources Manager and author of the update, as she summarizes a few of the topics and findings of the report. Formats:
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What is desalination? Californians rely heavily on fresh water, but rainfall and snow pack are not as reliable as they once were. As we move forward through our third year of drought, alternative water supply options are increasingly valuable. One technology that is rapidly becoming more feasible is desalination. Join Dean Reynolds, Chief of Water Recycling and Desalination here at DWR, as he explains what desalination is, and its role in California's evolving water supply. Formats:
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Preseason Flood Meetings DWR's Flood Operations Center works year round to make sure that the state is prepared to deal with flood events. Dry summer months are spent getting prepared for the upcoming wet season, and with that in mind, the Flood Center has announced the Preseason Flood Coordination Meetings for this Fall. Join Bill Croyle, Chief of the Flood Operations Branch, and Sean Mann, Chief of the Flood Operations Center, as they explain what these meetings are all about, and when they will take place. Formats:
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What is Climate Appropriate Landscaping? When it comes to residential water consumption, outdoor landscaping can account for the majority of water use. Every day sprinklers and thirsty lawns account for 30 to 70 percent of the average home's water use. One way to conserve water is by using climate appropriate landscaping. Join Julie Saare-Edmonds, a Landscape Specialist here at DWR, as she explains how drought resistant plants can make a big difference in your water consumption. Formats:
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California's State Water Project, a power utility? The State Water Project is a massive system in California, responsible for delivering water to more than 24 million Californians across the state. The amount of energy the SWP both consumes and produces places it on the same level as some of the states electric utilities. Join Veronica Hicks, Chief of the State Water Project Power and Risk Office, as she explains the differences and similarities between the SWP and public utilities such as SMUD or PG&E. Formats:
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DWR's Get Wet event Summer is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy the weather, and DWR has a number of events all summer long to provide some fun and education. The Get Wet event at Folsom Lake last week was one of those events, and with the Save Our Water campaign and Radio Disney there, water conservation was the theme of the day. Listen to some crowd reactions and hear from one of Disney's cast members about Get Wet. Formats:
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The Non-Physical Barrier Project DWR relies on the Delta for water conveyance operations, but strives to balance those operations with the needs of Delta wildlife. Last month, the department installed an experimental non-physical barrier to encourage salmon smolt to remain in the San Joaquin river on their way to the Ocean. Join Dr. Mark Bowen from the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation as he explains what exactly this non-physical barrier is. Formats:
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What is the 20X2020 plan? California's drought has helped illustrate the need for water conservation all across the State. One of the things that DWR has crafted in response to the State's growing need to reduce water use is the 20X2020 plan. Join Rick Soehren, Assistant Deputy Director of Water Use Efficiency, as he explains how we intend the goal of a 20% reduction in per capita water use by the year 2020. Formats:
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DWR's Drought website If you're looking for a comprehensive source of information about California's drought, look no further than DWR's drought website. Join Elissa Lynn, Chief Meteorologist with DWR, as she highlights some of the site's features and information, then stop by the drought page at water.ca.gov/drought. Formats:
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What is "Save Our Water?" California is starting to feel the heat of our third dry year, and our water supply is a particularly hot topic. In response to the drought, DWR has just launched the "Save Our Water" campaign to educate Californian's about water conservation. Join Wendy Martin, Statewide Drought Coordinator for the department, as she explains what "Save Our Water" is all about. Formats:
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Forecasting the State's Runoff As we move into spring and warmer weather, the snowmelt supplies the state with some greatly needed water. Join David Rizzardo, Chief of the Snow Survey Section of DWR, as he explains how we use snow measurements to help forecast California's runoff. Formats:
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Why is the April First snow survey significant? As the winter season winds down, snow surveys continue in the Sierras to gauge the water content which will supply the state with water via snow melt runoff. Join Frank Gehrke, Chief of Snow Surveys at DWR, as he explains why the April 1 survey is the most important. Formats:
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A wider look at DWR The Department of Water Resources has a number of different divisions that deal with various issues and responsibilities in California. This week, rather than delving into a particular topic, the Aquacast takes a look at DWR as a whole. Join Jim Libonati, Deputy Director of Business Operations, as he describes some facts about DWR from a wider perspective. Formats:
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What is the Longfin Smelt? Once again, the Aquacast dives into the issues of the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. This week, join Ted Sommer, Senior Environmental Scientist at DWR, as he discusses a newly threatened species of fish, the Longfin Smelt, and the implications this fish will have on the Department's operations in the Delta. Formats:
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The Yolo Bypass Fish Monitoring The Yolo Bypass is a huge area that serves a number of purposes, primarily as a flood plain for the Sacramento River. The wetlands also provides important habitat for wildlife, particularly fish. Join Kevin Reece, Environmental Scientist at DWR, as he explains his research in catching and monitoring fish in the bypass, and the importance of flood plains for California's fish. Formats:
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The 2009 Director's Awards A lot of people work hard to keep DWR moving forward, and once a year the Director presents awards to recognize outstanding professional accomplishments. Join our Director Lester Snow, as well as a few award recipients, for the excitement and a little comedy from the February 5th ceremony. Formats:
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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. Formats:
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DPC Management Plan Update The Delta Protection Commission has been at work in the Delta for over a decade, and for the first time since 1995, the DPC is updating its Management Plan. Joining us on the Aquacast once is again is Linda Fiack, Executive Director of the DPC, who explains why we need this change, and asks for public input in developing the update. Formats:
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Lake Oroville Fish Habitat Enhancement Many of the lakes in California lack aquatic vegetation which provides habitat for fish. At Lake Oroville, DWR responds to this problem by creating fish habitat during the winter when lake levels are low. Join Eric See, Environmental Scientist for DWR as he explains the installation of recycled Christmas trees for fish habitat enhancement. Formats:
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The Lower Yolo Bypass If you've ever driven across the Causeway on Interstate 80, you've seen the Lower Yolo Bypass: a region of the Delta that stretches down to Rio Vista. Join Linda Fiack, Executive Director of the Delta Protection Commission, as she describes the importance of the bypass, and the need to develop a management plan. Formats:
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The Water Plan Update 2009 DWR has been crafting and updating the California Water Plan for 50 years. Join Kamyar Guivetchi, Manager of Statewide Integrated Water Management as he explains how the 2009 update is unique, and how the public can get involved in developing the Water Plan. Visit www.waterplan.water.ca.gov to check out the Public Review Draft and tell DWR what you think. Formats:
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The 2009 Snow Pack Survey As we begin our 2009 winter, California needs a pretty wet season to catch up with the last two dry years. Join Frank Gehrke, Chief of Snow Surveys here at DWR, as he conducts the first snow pack survey of the winter, and explains the results. Formats:
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Water Education When it comes to water education in California, DWR provides a host of tools for teachers and students. Join Carolyn Tucker, Water Education Specialist here at DWR, as she explains her role in promoting water awareness. Formats:
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How does DWR assess flood potential in burned areas? After the thousands of wildfires that charred millions of acres of California in the last few years, those burned areas are more susceptible to flooding and mud flows. Join Sonny Fong, Emergency Preparedness and Security Manager here at DWR, as he explains the department's role in protecting lives and infrastructure during the wet season. Formats:
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The Delta Protection Commission The Sacramento San Joaquin Delta is a valuable and delicate part of California's water supply, agricultural production, and unique ecosystems. To balance the needs of these aspects, the Delta Protection Commission was established to provide a voice for the Delta and those living there. Join Linda Fiack, Executive Director of the commission, to learn about how the DPC works to ensure the protection and preservation of the Delta. Formats:
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DWR's Salmon Out Migration Study The Sacramento San Joaquin Delta is a crucial part of the State Water Project, but we must balance our operations with the needs of the ecosystem. The Salmon Out Migration Study going on in the Delta right now will show us the best path for the Salmon to take through the Delta to ensure survival, and how our operations affect their migration. For more information, visit http://baydeltaoffice.water.ca.gov/ndelta/salmon/index.cfm Formats:
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DWR Flood Fight Training When a levy breaks or a river overflows in California, it is vital to have well prepared responders to protect lives and property. DWR offers flood fight training throughout the state to make sure we're prepared to deal with a flood situation. Join Rick Burnett, a flood fight specialist with DWR, and Ray Garcia, one of the California Conservation Corps's trainers, as they explain and conduct a flood fight training on the banks of the American River. Formats:
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DWR's Mailroom Communication technology has sure come a long way in the last few decades, and has certainly saved a lot of paper. That doesn't bother Peter Villanueva, Chief of Imaging and Records Management in the DWR mailroom. Join Peter as he explains why email hasn't slowed down the mailroom, and why paper will never go away. Formats:
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DWR's November Climate Change Summit DWR is hosting a Climate Change Summit on November 13th and 14th. Join Amy Norris as she speaks with John Andrew, Executive Manager for Climate Change here at DWR, about the upcoming summit, and the climate change whitepaper that was recently completed. Formats:
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The DWR Flood Operations Center A drought like our current one here in California can create new issues for the wet season. The wildfires that burned our state have left blank hillsides with big potential for mud slides and flooding. Join Bill Croyle, Chief of the DWR Flood Operations Branch, as he explains his role in responding to flood events, and some of the challenges a dry year can have on flooding. Formats:
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Greening DWR DWR understands the threat of climate change and the importance of sustainability. That's why we have a project specifically dedicated to greening the department. Join Nate Frank, sustainability project specialist, as he explains what we're doing here at DWR to reduce our impact on the environment. Formats:
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Why are there temporary rock barriers in the Delta? DWR does a lot to keep the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Delta healthy and functioning properly, including the use of temporary barriers to help control water levels and fish migration patterns. Join Mark Holderman, Chief of the Temporary Barriers Project, as he explains the significance and functions of these barriers. Formats:
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Australian Drought Roundtable If it seems that the second dry year in California has strained our state, imagine the drought lasting 11 years. That's how long Australia's devastating drought has lasted, and with a history of low rainfall, the nation down under has a lot of experience dealing with water conservation. Last week, DWR met with drought coordinators from Melbourne to discuss the similarities of the droughts in our respective regions. Join Chris Lee, Bruce Rhodes, and Brian Carnahan as they offer some insight into how one of the driest countries on earth approaches a very long-term drought, and what they're doing about it. Formats:
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The Oroville Salmon Festival 2008 The Oroville Fish Hatchery hosted the 2008 Salmon Festival last weekend. If you missed it, join Zack Cunningham, live from Oroville, to learn about the history of the festival, and hear some of the spectators' reactions as well. Formats:
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Why does the water year start on October first? Each year on October first, hydrologists herald in the new water year. Maury Roos, long time hydrologist for DWR, explains why this is the appropriate time to annually reset record keeping for the state's reservoir levels, snow pack levels, river system runoff, and the hydrologic cycle in general. Formats:
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Why is earthquake monitoring important to DWR? California is a state known for many things, but few are as famous as our earthquakes. At DWR, earthquake monitoring plays an important role in keeping our water moving and our Dams safe. Jim Agnew, Senior Seismologist and Section Chief for Earthquake Engineering here at DWR, explains the history, significance, and current status of earthquake detection in California. Formats:
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Why does DWR have a Tribal Liaison? California is home to more than 150 Native American tribes, and these residents of our state have water needs just like the rest of us. Barbara Cross, our Government and Community Liaison, explains her role and the communication between DWR and California's tribes. Formats:
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DWR's photography archives If a picture tells a thousand words, than the millions of images in the department's photo archives speak volumes about the history of water in California. Join Dale Kolke, Chief Photographer here at DWR, as he delves into our extensive collection of pictures in the Photo department. Formats:
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Live from the State Fair, 2008 If you haven't had a chance to see California's World Class Delta exhibit, this weekend is your last chance. In the meantime, join Zack Cunningham, live from DWR's exhibit, getting the crowd reactions, talking to volunteers, and trying to avoid the snakes. Formats:
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What is the Salton Sea? This week at the Aquacast, Dale Hoffman-Floerke joins us to discuss the Salton Sea. As the Chief of the Colorado River and Salton Sea Office here at DWR, Dale offers some insight into the history, problems, and restoration efforts of California's largest surface area lake. Formats:
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What is this year's DWR State Fair Exhibit? The California State Fair kicks off this Friday, August 15th, and DWR will be showing off "California's World-Class Delta." Join Dorothy Benjamin, Mike Miller, and Amy Norris as they offer a preview of this year's exhibit. Formats:
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What is carbon-capture farming? Can building new wetlands in the State's Delta help lower greenhouse gas emissions, restore natural habitat, and raise the elevation of sinking islands? Join Bryan Brock and Josh Meidav from the Delta Suisun Marsh office as they explain Carbon-capture farming. Formats:
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Why do countries around the world want to tour the State Water Project? Michael Miller, tour coordinator for the department, stops by the Aquacast this week to talk about why countries from all over the world, such as Japan and Australia, schedule tours of the State Water Project and other DWR facilities. Formats:
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What is Hydrovision? This week the Aquacast comes to you from Hydrovision 2008, the world's largest convention for hydroelectric power. Zack Cunningham from the public affairs office speaks to key Hydrovision speakers Leslie Eden and Richard Taylor about California's water and hydroelectric issues. Formats:
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What is a Quagga Mussel? In this edition of the Aquacast, we are joined by DWR's two leading scientists on the Quagga Mussel. This tiny mussel has the potential to cause billions of dollars of damage to state and federal water projects and have adverse biological and economic effects on Californias lakes and waterways. Formats:
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How much does an acre-foot of water cost? Robert Cooke, Chief of the State Water Project Analysis Office, makes an appearance on the Aquacast this week to talk about the cost of moving water, in the unit known as acre-feet, through the State Water Project. Formats:
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What is C.A.S.T.? Join Amy Norris from the public affairs office as she attends DWR's C.A.S.T. (Catch a Special Thrill) for Kids event at Lake Del Valle reservoir in Alameda County. Norris speaks with C.A.S.T for Kids volunteers and DWR staff who help these special kids learn how to fish, and also teach lessons on boating safety, anglers' ethics and natural resources. Formats:
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What is a carbon footprint? One of the buzz words associated with being Green and saving energy is "carbon footprint." John Andrew, executive director for climate change at DWR, explains what this means, and the steps our department is taking to drastically reduce the size of our carbon footprint. Formats:
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What is CEQA? Listen as David Sandino, chief counsel at DWR, explains the complicated but very important acronym CEQA. Virtually every project undertaken at DWR must comply with the California Environmental Quality Act and David tells us why. Formats:
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What is the Delta Smelt? A tiny fish that lives only in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta called the Delta Smelt has been making headlines this year because of a federal court order to protect it by restricting export pumping out of the Delta. Ted Sommer, DWR environmentalist scientist, tells us about this fish and the studies being conducted to learn more about why it has seen such a dramatic decline in population. Formats:
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Why are we in a drought? Gov. Schwarzenegger declared a statewide drought on June 4, which marks the first official drought since 1991. The Governor has urged all Californians to conserve their water use and ordered DWR to begin transferring water to areas with the most critical need. But why are we in a drought, and how does it compare to the last drought California experienced? We get the answer from Jeanine Jones, interstate resources manager at DWR. Formats:
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What is the Big Lift? Carl Torgerson, chief of Operations and Maintenance, describes how water is pumped over the Tehachapi Mountains, a journey that is known as the "Big Lift." Formats:
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What is the DWR Aquacast? Sue Sims, chief of the public affairs office, kicks off the DWR Aquacast with a short introduction of what you can expect. Formats:
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