DWR Survey Shows State Snowpack Levels at 37%

Snow surveys conducted today by the Department of Water Resources (DWR) confirmed that the water content of California's snowpack is far below normal for this time of year. The water content is at just 37% of normal for February and is only 23% of the average April levels, which is usually when snowpack is at its peak. Snowpack levels are reported on DWR's Data Exchange Center.

DWR Director Mark Cowin said:

"So far, we just haven't received a decent number of winter storms. We have good reservoir storage thanks to wet conditions last year, but we also need more rain and snow this winter."

Near-record snowpack and heavy rains last winter provided carryover reservoir storage that can be used to help meet the State's water demands. Water levels at Lake Oroville, Lake Shasta and the San Luis Reservoir are all at or above average for this time of year. Reservoir levels are reported on DWR's Data Exchange Center.

As we previously reported, DWR's intial estimate is that the State Water Project (SWP) will be able to deliver 60% of the water requested by public agencies for 2012. However, the amount of water that is ultimately delivered will depend on hydrologic conditions over the next few months.

DWR's news release may be found here. A video depicting today's snow survey at Phillips Station may be found here.

For more information regarding this matter, please contact Elizabeth Leeper or the KMTG attorney with whom you normally consult.

Related story:

• Department of Water Resources Announces 60% Initial Allocation for 2012