What are the water allocation differences for California's Central Valley farmers?

Farmers on the eastern side of the Central Valley are expected to receive 100% of their Class I water deliveries, while those on the west side are facing a significantly lower 15% allocation.

What is the current status of California's statewide snowpack?

As of the third survey, the statewide snowpack is at 66% of the seasonal average, with 28 inches of snow depth and an 11-inch snow water equivalent.

Why are accurate snow projections important for Central Valley farmers?

Accurate snow projections help farmers know precisely when to start running water to their local farms and communities as the snowpack melts, ensuring adequate supply for crops.

Home / Environment / California Snowpack Fuels Farm Water Hopes

California Snowpack Fuels Farm Water Hopes

28 Feb

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Summary

Eastern Valley expects 100% water deliveries; western side faces 15%.
Statewide snowpack is 66% of average as of the latest survey.
Accurate snow projections guide farmers on water delivery timing.

California Snowpack Fuels Farm Water Hopes

Farmers in California's Central Valley rely heavily on mountain snowpack for summer irrigation. Projections for the upcoming season indicate a significant disparity, with eastern portions of the Valley set to receive 100% of their Class I water deliveries. However, contractors on the west side, encompassing Fresno, Kings, and Merced counties, are anticipating only a 15% allocation. This challenging outlook is influenced by factors such as reservoir levels, precipitation, and current snowpack.

As of the third survey conducted on Friday morning, the Department of Water Resources reported 28 inches of snow depth statewide, with an 11-inch snow water equivalent. This represents 66% of the seasonal average for this date. A fourth survey is scheduled for April 1. The Kings River Water Association is undertaking its own detailed survey, integrating DWR data, to provide precise snow projections. These projections are vital for farmers to determine the optimal time to initiate water flow to their farms and communities as the snowpack melts.

Disclaimer: This story has been auto-aggregated and auto-summarised by a computer program. This story has not been edited or created by the Feedzop team.