[Mick]

Can anyone summarize new strategies and projects to rebuild aquifers?

That question made me feel like I was back in school getting an assignment.

National Geographic outlines the problem (96 of 204 water systems in trouble):
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/scien...ter-crisis

Princeton Press focuses on Great Plains ground water issue. Ogallala aquifer on verge of being depleted. Finalist for national book award:
https://press.princeton.edu/books/hardco...unning-out

New York Times says their database of 80k water wells nationwide indicates the problem is much worse than they thought, weak regulation and climate to blame (in part) as is overpumping. Problem is pervasive:
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/08/29/clima...aways.html

The Atlantic calls it the worst crisis in a millenium:
https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archiv...ht/621007/

US Dept of Agriculture has a solution for the far western states:
https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/news/usda-unve...lenges-for

And this for 40 priority areas of water conservation and investments west of the Rockies and the Great Plains:
https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initi...rity-areas

There are both Federal and California programs to address state, local, national and international water challenges, but I don't want to run afoul of board posting standards.

[Mick]

Can anyone summarize new strategies and projects to rebuild aquifers?

That question made me feel like I was back in school getting an assignment.

National Geographic outlines the problem (96 of 204 water systems in trouble):
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/scien...ter-crisis

Princeton Press focuses on Great Plains ground water issue. Ogallala aquifer on verge of being depleted. Finalist for national book award:
https://press.princeton.edu/books/hardco...unning-out

New York Times says their database of 80k water wells nationwide indicates the problem is much worse than they thought, weak regulation and climate to blame (in part) as is overpumping. Problem is pervasive:
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/08/29/clima...aways.html

The Atlantic calls it the worst crisis in a millenium:
https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archiv...ht/621007/

US Dept of Agriculture has a solution for the far western states:
https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/news/usda-unve...lenges-for

And this for 40 priority areas of water conservation and investments west of the Rockies and the Great Plains:
https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initi...rity-areas

There are both Federal and California programs to address state, local, national and international water challenges, but I don't want to run afoul of board posting standards.

[Mick]

RESSW.pdf (ca.gov)

Reservoir capacity updated for October 4 (using threepointer's scale). Listed with % of Average to date:

Large (1 MM+ AF):
Oroville, 73% / 136%
Shasta, 73% / 131%
Pine Flat, 65% / 221%
San Luis, 81% / 190%
New Melones, 79% / 142%
Trinity, 52% / 85%
Don Pedro, 84% / 123%
New Exchequer/Lake McClure, 72% / 150%
Berryessa, 77% / 107%
Almanor, 71% / 111%

Medium (300k - 999k AF, where available)
Folsom, 67% / 135% 
New Bullards, 72% / 114%
Diamond Valley, 83% / 112%
Indian Valley, 50% / 123%
Friant, 39% / 83%
Isabella, 63% / 224%
Lake San Antonio, 66% / 140%
Lake Tahoe/Tahoe City, 76% / 205%
Nacimiento, 61% / 157%
Camanche, 85% / 139%
Warm Springs, 61% / 113%
New Hogan, 60% / 156%
Castaic, 93% / 114%
Clear Lake/Cache Creek, 31% / 129%

SF Bay Reservoirs (and of local interest, where available)
Hetch Hetchy, 94% / 120%
Calaveras, 89% / 200%
Del Valle, 47% / 107%
U San Leandro, 95% / 127%
San Pablo, 56% / 95%
Chabot, 84% / 103%
Briones, 84% / 109%
Lexington Reservoir, 66% / 179%
San Antonio Reservoir, 103% / 118%
Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir, 74% / 111%

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced El Nino's emergence in June, and advised that the climate pattern could signal another wet winter in Southern California, to say nothing of increased temperatures across the globe. California had 120+ trillion gallons poured on it in the water year that just ended, which is 10/1/22 - 9/30/23. We had been in severe drought conditions relating to the lack of rainfaill over the past three years. In June, the NOAA predicted a 56% chance of severe rainfall, but now it is 95%, per a story last week. Although it is indicated that more rain will fall in Southern California than Northern or Central California.

El Niño set to strengthen this winter, what does it mean for Northern California? (msn.com)

But what if we have another really, really wet year? The National Weather Service says next year could also see an above-average rainfall thanks to the EL Nino. How will that impact the state? The reservoirs are already full.  Will it contribute to the groundwater? Cause mass flooding? Simply go out to the sea?

[Mick]

RESSW.pdf (ca.gov)

Reservoir capacity updated for October 4 (using threepointer's scale). Listed with % of Average to date:

Large (1 MM+ AF):
Oroville, 73% / 136%
Shasta, 73% / 131%
Pine Flat, 65% / 221%
San Luis, 81% / 190%
New Melones, 79% / 142%
Trinity, 52% / 85%
Don Pedro, 84% / 123%
New Exchequer/Lake McClure, 72% / 150%
Berryessa, 77% / 107%
Almanor, 71% / 111%

Medium (300k - 999k AF, where available)
Folsom, 67% / 135% 
New Bullards, 72% / 114%
Diamond Valley, 83% / 112%
Indian Valley, 50% / 123%
Friant, 39% / 83%
Isabella, 63% / 224%
Lake San Antonio, 66% / 140%
Lake Tahoe/Tahoe City, 76% / 205%
Nacimiento, 61% / 157%
Camanche, 85% / 139%
Warm Springs, 61% / 113%
New Hogan, 60% / 156%
Castaic, 93% / 114%
Clear Lake/Cache Creek, 31% / 129%

SF Bay Reservoirs (and of local interest, where available)
Hetch Hetchy, 94% / 120%
Calaveras, 89% / 200%
Del Valle, 47% / 107%
U San Leandro, 95% / 127%
San Pablo, 56% / 95%
Chabot, 84% / 103%
Briones, 84% / 109%
Lexington Reservoir, 66% / 179%
San Antonio Reservoir, 103% / 118%
Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir, 74% / 111%

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced El Nino's emergence in June, and advised that the climate pattern could signal another wet winter in Southern California, to say nothing of increased temperatures across the globe. California had 120+ trillion gallons poured on it in the water year that just ended, which is 10/1/22 - 9/30/23. We had been in severe drought conditions relating to the lack of rainfaill over the past three years. In June, the NOAA predicted a 56% chance of severe rainfall, but now it is 95%, per a story last week. Although it is indicated that more rain will fall in Southern California than Northern or Central California.

El Niño set to strengthen this winter, what does it mean for Northern California? (msn.com)

But what if we have another really, really wet year? The National Weather Service says next year could also see an above-average rainfall thanks to the EL Nino. How will that impact the state? The reservoirs are already full.  Will it contribute to the groundwater? Cause mass flooding? Simply go out to the sea?

[Leftcoast]

Looks like the water managers are taking a wait-and-see approach to the El Niño conditions given the high number of reservoirs with water levels above average for this time of year.   Of course those averages include many drought years so perhaps that's not surprising.  I do notice the lower reservoirs are more empty, no doubt to give some buffer if there is a need for the higher elevation reservoirs to dump water quickly.  (Ex, Friant at 30%/83%.  Next stop is flooding the San Joaquin channel with no lower reservoir).

[Leftcoast]

Looks like the water managers are taking a wait-and-see approach to the El Niño conditions given the high number of reservoirs with water levels above average for this time of year.   Of course those averages include many drought years so perhaps that's not surprising.  I do notice the lower reservoirs are more empty, no doubt to give some buffer if there is a need for the higher elevation reservoirs to dump water quickly.  (Ex, Friant at 30%/83%.  Next stop is flooding the San Joaquin channel with no lower reservoir).

[Mick]

Four dams in Southern Oregon and Northern California on the Klamath River are in the process of being dismantled.

California launches the largest dam removal project to protect salmon and tribal heritage

[Mick]

Four dams in Southern Oregon and Northern California on the Klamath River are in the process of being dismantled.

California launches the largest dam removal project to protect salmon and tribal heritage

[TonyLima]

RESSW.pdf (ca.gov)

Reservoir capacity updated for October 4 (using threepointer's scale). Listed with % of Average to date:

Large (1 MM+ AF):
Oroville, 73% / 136%
Shasta, 73% / 131%
Pine Flat, 65% / 221%
San Luis, 81% / 190%
New Melones, 79% / 142%
Trinity, 52% / 85%
Don Pedro, 84% / 123%
New Exchequer/Lake McClure, 72% / 150%
Berryessa, 77% / 107%
Almanor, 71% / 111%

Medium (300k - 999k AF, where available)
Folsom, 67% / 135% 
New Bullards, 72% / 114%
Diamond Valley, 83% / 112%
Indian Valley, 50% / 123%
Friant, 39% / 83%
Isabella, 63% / 224%
Lake San Antonio, 66% / 140%
Lake Tahoe/Tahoe City, 76% / 205%
Nacimiento, 61% / 157%
Camanche, 85% / 139%
Warm Springs, 61% / 113%
New Hogan, 60% / 156%
Castaic, 93% / 114%
Clear Lake/Cache Creek, 31% / 129%

SF Bay Reservoirs (and of local interest, where available)
Hetch Hetchy, 94% / 120%
Calaveras, 89% / 200%
Del Valle, 47% / 107%
U San Leandro, 95% / 127%
San Pablo, 56% / 95%
Chabot, 84% / 103%
Briones, 84% / 109%
Lexington Reservoir, 66% / 179%
San Antonio Reservoir, 103% / 118%
Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir, 74% / 111%

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced El Nino's emergence in June, and advised that the climate pattern could signal another wet winter in Southern California, to say nothing of increased temperatures across the globe. California had 120+ trillion gallons poured on it in the water year that just ended, which is 10/1/22 - 9/30/23. We had been in severe drought conditions relating to the lack of rainfaill over the past three years. In June, the NOAA predicted a 56% chance of severe rainfall, but now it is 95%, per a story last week. Although it is indicated that more rain will fall in Southern California than Northern or Central California.

El Niño set to strengthen this winter, what does it mean for Northern California? (msn.com)

But what if we have another really, really wet year? The National Weather Service says next year could also see an above-average rainfall thanks to the EL Nino. How will that impact the state? The reservoirs are already full.  Will it contribute to the groundwater? Cause mass flooding? Simply go out to the sea?

There will be many happy fish.

---

Four dams in Southern Oregon and Northern California on the Klamath River are in the process of being dismantled.

California launches the largest dam removal project to protect salmon and tribal heritage

Ironically, Prop 1 funds are being used for this. A clause in that measure says funds can be used for “restoration.”

[TonyLima]

RESSW.pdf (ca.gov)

Reservoir capacity updated for October 4 (using threepointer's scale). Listed with % of Average to date:

Large (1 MM+ AF):
Oroville, 73% / 136%
Shasta, 73% / 131%
Pine Flat, 65% / 221%
San Luis, 81% / 190%
New Melones, 79% / 142%
Trinity, 52% / 85%
Don Pedro, 84% / 123%
New Exchequer/Lake McClure, 72% / 150%
Berryessa, 77% / 107%
Almanor, 71% / 111%

Medium (300k - 999k AF, where available)
Folsom, 67% / 135% 
New Bullards, 72% / 114%
Diamond Valley, 83% / 112%
Indian Valley, 50% / 123%
Friant, 39% / 83%
Isabella, 63% / 224%
Lake San Antonio, 66% / 140%
Lake Tahoe/Tahoe City, 76% / 205%
Nacimiento, 61% / 157%
Camanche, 85% / 139%
Warm Springs, 61% / 113%
New Hogan, 60% / 156%
Castaic, 93% / 114%
Clear Lake/Cache Creek, 31% / 129%

SF Bay Reservoirs (and of local interest, where available)
Hetch Hetchy, 94% / 120%
Calaveras, 89% / 200%
Del Valle, 47% / 107%
U San Leandro, 95% / 127%
San Pablo, 56% / 95%
Chabot, 84% / 103%
Briones, 84% / 109%
Lexington Reservoir, 66% / 179%
San Antonio Reservoir, 103% / 118%
Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir, 74% / 111%

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced El Nino's emergence in June, and advised that the climate pattern could signal another wet winter in Southern California, to say nothing of increased temperatures across the globe. California had 120+ trillion gallons poured on it in the water year that just ended, which is 10/1/22 - 9/30/23. We had been in severe drought conditions relating to the lack of rainfaill over the past three years. In June, the NOAA predicted a 56% chance of severe rainfall, but now it is 95%, per a story last week. Although it is indicated that more rain will fall in Southern California than Northern or Central California.

El Niño set to strengthen this winter, what does it mean for Northern California? (msn.com)

But what if we have another really, really wet year? The National Weather Service says next year could also see an above-average rainfall thanks to the EL Nino. How will that impact the state? The reservoirs are already full.  Will it contribute to the groundwater? Cause mass flooding? Simply go out to the sea?

There will be many happy fish.

---

Four dams in Southern Oregon and Northern California on the Klamath River are in the process of being dismantled.

California launches the largest dam removal project to protect salmon and tribal heritage

Ironically, Prop 1 funds are being used for this. A clause in that measure says funds can be used for “restoration.”

[Mick]

LA Times, quoting Daniel Swain (climate scientist from UCLA) is reporting a 40% to 60% chance of a wet winter, at least in Southern California:

https://www.latimes.com/california/story...California

Scott Handel of the NOAA essentially repeated those odds, saying it's equally likely between dry and wet winter, but given the EL Nino conditions, they believe a slightly wetter-than-normal chance for the LA area.

Jan Null, meteorologist with the Golden Gate Weather Services says that the weather model indicated by La Nina called for dry conditions, and of course we received 30+ atmospheric rivers last water year. She predicted a dry December, a normal January and a wet February and March -- qualifying the prediction with fact that there are many other factors that could impact the outcome. Of course.

[Mick]

LA Times, quoting Daniel Swain (climate scientist from UCLA) is reporting a 40% to 60% chance of a wet winter, at least in Southern California:

https://www.latimes.com/california/story...California

Scott Handel of the NOAA essentially repeated those odds, saying it's equally likely between dry and wet winter, but given the EL Nino conditions, they believe a slightly wetter-than-normal chance for the LA area.

Jan Null, meteorologist with the Golden Gate Weather Services says that the weather model indicated by La Nina called for dry conditions, and of course we received 30+ atmospheric rivers last water year. She predicted a dry December, a normal January and a wet February and March -- qualifying the prediction with fact that there are many other factors that could impact the outcome. Of course.

[GK3]

RESSW.pdf (ca.gov)

Reservoir capacity updated for October 4 (using threepointer's scale). Listed with % of Average to date:

Large (1 MM+ AF):
Oroville, 73% / 136%
Shasta, 73% / 131%
Pine Flat, 65% / 221%
San Luis, 81% / 190%
New Melones, 79% / 142%
Trinity, 52% / 85%
Don Pedro, 84% / 123%
New Exchequer/Lake McClure, 72% / 150%
Berryessa, 77% / 107%
Almanor, 71% / 111%

Medium (300k - 999k AF, where available)
Folsom, 67% / 135% 
New Bullards, 72% / 114%
Diamond Valley, 83% / 112%
Indian Valley, 50% / 123%
Friant, 39% / 83%
Isabella, 63% / 224%
Lake San Antonio, 66% / 140%
Lake Tahoe/Tahoe City, 76% / 205%
Nacimiento, 61% / 157%
Camanche, 85% / 139%
Warm Springs, 61% / 113%
New Hogan, 60% / 156%
Castaic, 93% / 114%
Clear Lake/Cache Creek, 31% / 129%

SF Bay Reservoirs (and of local interest, where available)
Hetch Hetchy, 94% / 120%
Calaveras, 89% / 200%
Del Valle, 47% / 107%
U San Leandro, 95% / 127%
San Pablo, 56% / 95%
Chabot, 84% / 103%
Briones, 84% / 109%
Lexington Reservoir, 66% / 179%
San Antonio Reservoir, 103% / 118%
Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir, 74% / 111%

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced El Nino's emergence in June, and advised that the climate pattern could signal another wet winter in Southern California, to say nothing of increased temperatures across the globe. California had 120+ trillion gallons poured on it in the water year that just ended, which is 10/1/22 - 9/30/23. We had been in severe drought conditions relating to the lack of rainfaill over the past three years. In June, the NOAA predicted a 56% chance of severe rainfall, but now it is 95%, per a story last week. Although it is indicated that more rain will fall in Southern California than Northern or Central California.

El Niño set to strengthen this winter, what does it mean for Northern California? (msn.com)

But what if we have another really, really wet year? The National Weather Service says next year could also see an above-average rainfall thanks to the EL Nino. How will that impact the state? The reservoirs are already full.  Will it contribute to the groundwater? Cause mass flooding? Simply go out to the sea?

There will be many happy fish.

---

Four dams in Southern Oregon and Northern California on the Klamath River are in the process of being dismantled.

California launches the largest dam removal project to protect salmon and tribal heritage

Ironically, Prop 1 funds are being used for this. A clause in that measure says funds can be used for “restoration.”

Those dams were pretty useless except for stopping Salmon from running further up the Klamath and its feeder streams.  They were pretty silted up and didn't serve much of a purpose as they had microscopic storage levels in the dam world. I have fished, hiked and driven along the 4WD roads that run along the Klamath from Klamath Falls to I5. I have also been along most of the feeder streams running into Klamath Lake. 
Water however, is a problem.  The area south to the California border included what were once some of the biggest wet lands around, most of have now been dried up and plowed up. Rain and snow has been limited the last few years and the water wars have started.  As things stand now there is no longer enough water to maintain the remaining wetlands, keep the rivers from becoming too warm and killing lots of fish, and irrigating the crops that now replace old wet lands. Like many other places, things are coming to a head on this issue.  Of course everyone is in a my way or the highway mode.

[GK3]

RESSW.pdf (ca.gov)

Reservoir capacity updated for October 4 (using threepointer's scale). Listed with % of Average to date:

Large (1 MM+ AF):
Oroville, 73% / 136%
Shasta, 73% / 131%
Pine Flat, 65% / 221%
San Luis, 81% / 190%
New Melones, 79% / 142%
Trinity, 52% / 85%
Don Pedro, 84% / 123%
New Exchequer/Lake McClure, 72% / 150%
Berryessa, 77% / 107%
Almanor, 71% / 111%

Medium (300k - 999k AF, where available)
Folsom, 67% / 135% 
New Bullards, 72% / 114%
Diamond Valley, 83% / 112%
Indian Valley, 50% / 123%
Friant, 39% / 83%
Isabella, 63% / 224%
Lake San Antonio, 66% / 140%
Lake Tahoe/Tahoe City, 76% / 205%
Nacimiento, 61% / 157%
Camanche, 85% / 139%
Warm Springs, 61% / 113%
New Hogan, 60% / 156%
Castaic, 93% / 114%
Clear Lake/Cache Creek, 31% / 129%

SF Bay Reservoirs (and of local interest, where available)
Hetch Hetchy, 94% / 120%
Calaveras, 89% / 200%
Del Valle, 47% / 107%
U San Leandro, 95% / 127%
San Pablo, 56% / 95%
Chabot, 84% / 103%
Briones, 84% / 109%
Lexington Reservoir, 66% / 179%
San Antonio Reservoir, 103% / 118%
Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir, 74% / 111%

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced El Nino's emergence in June, and advised that the climate pattern could signal another wet winter in Southern California, to say nothing of increased temperatures across the globe. California had 120+ trillion gallons poured on it in the water year that just ended, which is 10/1/22 - 9/30/23. We had been in severe drought conditions relating to the lack of rainfaill over the past three years. In June, the NOAA predicted a 56% chance of severe rainfall, but now it is 95%, per a story last week. Although it is indicated that more rain will fall in Southern California than Northern or Central California.

El Niño set to strengthen this winter, what does it mean for Northern California? (msn.com)

But what if we have another really, really wet year? The National Weather Service says next year could also see an above-average rainfall thanks to the EL Nino. How will that impact the state? The reservoirs are already full.  Will it contribute to the groundwater? Cause mass flooding? Simply go out to the sea?

There will be many happy fish.

---

Four dams in Southern Oregon and Northern California on the Klamath River are in the process of being dismantled.

California launches the largest dam removal project to protect salmon and tribal heritage

Ironically, Prop 1 funds are being used for this. A clause in that measure says funds can be used for “restoration.”

Those dams were pretty useless except for stopping Salmon from running further up the Klamath and its feeder streams.  They were pretty silted up and didn't serve much of a purpose as they had microscopic storage levels in the dam world. I have fished, hiked and driven along the 4WD roads that run along the Klamath from Klamath Falls to I5. I have also been along most of the feeder streams running into Klamath Lake. 
Water however, is a problem.  The area south to the California border included what were once some of the biggest wet lands around, most of have now been dried up and plowed up. Rain and snow has been limited the last few years and the water wars have started.  As things stand now there is no longer enough water to maintain the remaining wetlands, keep the rivers from becoming too warm and killing lots of fish, and irrigating the crops that now replace old wet lands. Like many other places, things are coming to a head on this issue.  Of course everyone is in a my way or the highway mode.

[81alum]

RESSW.pdf (ca.gov)

Reservoir capacity updated for October 4 (using threepointer's scale). Listed with % of Average to date:

Large (1 MM+ AF):
Oroville, 73% / 136%
Shasta, 73% / 131%
Pine Flat, 65% / 221%
San Luis, 81% / 190%
New Melones, 79% / 142%
Trinity, 52% / 85%
Don Pedro, 84% / 123%
New Exchequer/Lake McClure, 72% / 150%
Berryessa, 77% / 107%
Almanor, 71% / 111%

Medium (300k - 999k AF, where available)
Folsom, 67% / 135% 
New Bullards, 72% / 114%
Diamond Valley, 83% / 112%
Indian Valley, 50% / 123%
Friant, 39% / 83%
Isabella, 63% / 224%
Lake San Antonio, 66% / 140%
Lake Tahoe/Tahoe City, 76% / 205%
Nacimiento, 61% / 157%
Camanche, 85% / 139%
Warm Springs, 61% / 113%
New Hogan, 60% / 156%
Castaic, 93% / 114%
Clear Lake/Cache Creek, 31% / 129%

SF Bay Reservoirs (and of local interest, where available)
Hetch Hetchy, 94% / 120%
Calaveras, 89% / 200%
Del Valle, 47% / 107%
U San Leandro, 95% / 127%
San Pablo, 56% / 95%
Chabot, 84% / 103%
Briones, 84% / 109%
Lexington Reservoir, 66% / 179%
San Antonio Reservoir, 103% / 118%
Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir, 74% / 111%

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced El Nino's emergence in June, and advised that the climate pattern could signal another wet winter in Southern California, to say nothing of increased temperatures across the globe. California had 120+ trillion gallons poured on it in the water year that just ended, which is 10/1/22 - 9/30/23. We had been in severe drought conditions relating to the lack of rainfaill over the past three years. In June, the NOAA predicted a 56% chance of severe rainfall, but now it is 95%, per a story last week. Although it is indicated that more rain will fall in Southern California than Northern or Central California.

El Niño set to strengthen this winter, what does it mean for Northern California? (msn.com)

But what if we have another really, really wet year? The National Weather Service says next year could also see an above-average rainfall thanks to the EL Nino. How will that impact the state? The reservoirs are already full.  Will it contribute to the groundwater? Cause mass flooding? Simply go out to the sea?

There will be many happy fish.

---

Four dams in Southern Oregon and Northern California on the Klamath River are in the process of being dismantled.

California launches the largest dam removal project to protect salmon and tribal heritage

Ironically, Prop 1 funds are being used for this. A clause in that measure says funds can be used for “restoration.”

Those dams were pretty useless except for stopping Salmon from running further up the Klamath and its feeder streams.  They were pretty silted up and didn't serve much of a purpose as they had microscopic storage levels in the dam world. I have fished, hiked and driven along the 4WD roads that run along the Klamath from Klamath Falls to I5. I have also been along most of the feeder streams running into Klamath Lake. 
Water however, is a problem.  The area south to the California border included what were once some of the biggest wet lands around, most of have now been dried up and plowed up. Rain and snow has been limited the last few years and the water wars have started.  As things stand now there is no longer enough water to maintain the remaining wetlands, keep the rivers from becoming too warm and killing lots of fish, and irrigating the crops that now replace old wet lands. Like many other places, things are coming to a head on this issue.  Of course everyone is in a my way or the highway mode.

Agreed.  Removing old dams that never stored much water and now store even less, but which did major environmental damage, makes a lot of sense.  Conversely, expanding some modern reservoirs so they store even more water makes a lot of sense, like the San Luis project.  One such project could store as much water as a few dozen of the smaller dams that were removed, and it could do so without the degree of environmental destruction, given that there is already a dam there.

[81alum]

RESSW.pdf (ca.gov)

Reservoir capacity updated for October 4 (using threepointer's scale). Listed with % of Average to date:

Large (1 MM+ AF):
Oroville, 73% / 136%
Shasta, 73% / 131%
Pine Flat, 65% / 221%
San Luis, 81% / 190%
New Melones, 79% / 142%
Trinity, 52% / 85%
Don Pedro, 84% / 123%
New Exchequer/Lake McClure, 72% / 150%
Berryessa, 77% / 107%
Almanor, 71% / 111%

Medium (300k - 999k AF, where available)
Folsom, 67% / 135% 
New Bullards, 72% / 114%
Diamond Valley, 83% / 112%
Indian Valley, 50% / 123%
Friant, 39% / 83%
Isabella, 63% / 224%
Lake San Antonio, 66% / 140%
Lake Tahoe/Tahoe City, 76% / 205%
Nacimiento, 61% / 157%
Camanche, 85% / 139%
Warm Springs, 61% / 113%
New Hogan, 60% / 156%
Castaic, 93% / 114%
Clear Lake/Cache Creek, 31% / 129%

SF Bay Reservoirs (and of local interest, where available)
Hetch Hetchy, 94% / 120%
Calaveras, 89% / 200%
Del Valle, 47% / 107%
U San Leandro, 95% / 127%
San Pablo, 56% / 95%
Chabot, 84% / 103%
Briones, 84% / 109%
Lexington Reservoir, 66% / 179%
San Antonio Reservoir, 103% / 118%
Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir, 74% / 111%

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced El Nino's emergence in June, and advised that the climate pattern could signal another wet winter in Southern California, to say nothing of increased temperatures across the globe. California had 120+ trillion gallons poured on it in the water year that just ended, which is 10/1/22 - 9/30/23. We had been in severe drought conditions relating to the lack of rainfaill over the past three years. In June, the NOAA predicted a 56% chance of severe rainfall, but now it is 95%, per a story last week. Although it is indicated that more rain will fall in Southern California than Northern or Central California.

El Niño set to strengthen this winter, what does it mean for Northern California? (msn.com)

But what if we have another really, really wet year? The National Weather Service says next year could also see an above-average rainfall thanks to the EL Nino. How will that impact the state? The reservoirs are already full.  Will it contribute to the groundwater? Cause mass flooding? Simply go out to the sea?

There will be many happy fish.

---

Four dams in Southern Oregon and Northern California on the Klamath River are in the process of being dismantled.

California launches the largest dam removal project to protect salmon and tribal heritage

Ironically, Prop 1 funds are being used for this. A clause in that measure says funds can be used for “restoration.”

Those dams were pretty useless except for stopping Salmon from running further up the Klamath and its feeder streams.  They were pretty silted up and didn't serve much of a purpose as they had microscopic storage levels in the dam world. I have fished, hiked and driven along the 4WD roads that run along the Klamath from Klamath Falls to I5. I have also been along most of the feeder streams running into Klamath Lake. 
Water however, is a problem.  The area south to the California border included what were once some of the biggest wet lands around, most of have now been dried up and plowed up. Rain and snow has been limited the last few years and the water wars have started.  As things stand now there is no longer enough water to maintain the remaining wetlands, keep the rivers from becoming too warm and killing lots of fish, and irrigating the crops that now replace old wet lands. Like many other places, things are coming to a head on this issue.  Of course everyone is in a my way or the highway mode.

Agreed.  Removing old dams that never stored much water and now store even less, but which did major environmental damage, makes a lot of sense.  Conversely, expanding some modern reservoirs so they store even more water makes a lot of sense, like the San Luis project.  One such project could store as much water as a few dozen of the smaller dams that were removed, and it could do so without the degree of environmental destruction, given that there is already a dam there.

[Mick]

RESSW.pdf (ca.gov)

Reservoir capacity updated for November 2 (using threepointer's scale). Listed with % of Average to date:

Large (1 MM+ AF):
Oroville, 68% / 134%
Shasta, 69% / 129%
Pine Flat, 56% / 202%
San Luis, 65% / 145%
New Melones, 79% / 147%
Trinity, 50% / 86%
Don Pedro, 81% / 123%
New Exchequer/Lake McClure, 65% / 152%
Berryessa, 76% / 109%
Almanor, 72% / 117%

Medium (300k - 999k AF, where available)
Folsom, 57% / 131% 
New Bullards, 69% / 115%
Diamond Valley, 85% / 117%
Indian Valley, 49% / 126%
Friant, 28% / 64%
Isabella, 45% / 179%
Lake San Antonio, 65% / 141%
Lake Tahoe/Tahoe City, 70% / 224%
Nacimiento, 56% / 155%
Camanche, 81% / 135%
Warm Springs, 59% / 113%
New Hogan, 58% / 162%
Castaic, 89% / 114%
Clear Lake/Cache Creek, 28% / 137%

SF Bay Reservoirs (and of local interest, where available)
Hetch Hetchy, 89% / 123%
Calaveras, 86% / 207%
Del Valle, 42% / 105%
U San Leandro, 92% / 127%
San Pablo, 56% / 96%
Chabot, 90% / 112%
Briones, 84% / 109%
Lexington Reservoir, 59% / 200%
San Antonio Reservoir, 101% / 118%
Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir, 74% / 110%

Most reservoirs are down a slight percentage in % of capacity (normal for this time of year, I suspect), and many are up slightly in % of annual average. Friant's water is low because of a forthcoming repair project:
https://kmph.com/news/local/millerton-la...ded-in-mud

Also, Friant has no more water debt, and their new water will go towards next year's supply:
https://thesungazette.com/article/news/2...er-levels/

The New York Times reported today that the state agencies in charge of managing groundwater are, essentially, failing to do their jobs. As grim as you thought groundwater depletion was, it's worse. The person in charge of Oklahoma's groundwater, for example, said that until recently he didn't care if the state ran dry.

https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2023...rules.html

[Mick]

RESSW.pdf (ca.gov)

Reservoir capacity updated for November 2 (using threepointer's scale). Listed with % of Average to date:

Large (1 MM+ AF):
Oroville, 68% / 134%
Shasta, 69% / 129%
Pine Flat, 56% / 202%
San Luis, 65% / 145%
New Melones, 79% / 147%
Trinity, 50% / 86%
Don Pedro, 81% / 123%
New Exchequer/Lake McClure, 65% / 152%
Berryessa, 76% / 109%
Almanor, 72% / 117%

Medium (300k - 999k AF, where available)
Folsom, 57% / 131% 
New Bullards, 69% / 115%
Diamond Valley, 85% / 117%
Indian Valley, 49% / 126%
Friant, 28% / 64%
Isabella, 45% / 179%
Lake San Antonio, 65% / 141%
Lake Tahoe/Tahoe City, 70% / 224%
Nacimiento, 56% / 155%
Camanche, 81% / 135%
Warm Springs, 59% / 113%
New Hogan, 58% / 162%
Castaic, 89% / 114%
Clear Lake/Cache Creek, 28% / 137%

SF Bay Reservoirs (and of local interest, where available)
Hetch Hetchy, 89% / 123%
Calaveras, 86% / 207%
Del Valle, 42% / 105%
U San Leandro, 92% / 127%
San Pablo, 56% / 96%
Chabot, 90% / 112%
Briones, 84% / 109%
Lexington Reservoir, 59% / 200%
San Antonio Reservoir, 101% / 118%
Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir, 74% / 110%

Most reservoirs are down a slight percentage in % of capacity (normal for this time of year, I suspect), and many are up slightly in % of annual average. Friant's water is low because of a forthcoming repair project:
https://kmph.com/news/local/millerton-la...ded-in-mud

Also, Friant has no more water debt, and their new water will go towards next year's supply:
https://thesungazette.com/article/news/2...er-levels/

The New York Times reported today that the state agencies in charge of managing groundwater are, essentially, failing to do their jobs. As grim as you thought groundwater depletion was, it's worse. The person in charge of Oklahoma's groundwater, for example, said that until recently he didn't care if the state ran dry.

https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2023...rules.html

[81alum]

The groundwater situation, particularly in the Plains, has been precarious for decades and just gets worse and worse.  Marc Reisner featured this problem prominently in his classic history of western water Cadillac Desert in 1986, and as is becoming all too common in America, we have been unable to solve this critical problem even some 40 years after it was publicized.   It may lend further impetus to increasing poverty and depopulation of middle America.

[81alum]

The groundwater situation, particularly in the Plains, has been precarious for decades and just gets worse and worse.  Marc Reisner featured this problem prominently in his classic history of western water Cadillac Desert in 1986, and as is becoming all too common in America, we have been unable to solve this critical problem even some 40 years after it was publicized.   It may lend further impetus to increasing poverty and depopulation of middle America.

[jacket3ree]

LA Times, quoting Daniel Swain (climate scientist from UCLA) is reporting a 40% to 60% chance of a wet winter, at least in Southern California:

https://www.latimes.com/california/story...California

Scott Handel of the NOAA essentially repeated those odds, saying it's equally likely between dry and wet winter, but given the EL Nino conditions, they believe a slightly wetter-than-normal chance for the LA area.

Jan Null, meteorologist with the Golden Gate Weather Services says that the weather model indicated by La Nina called for dry conditions, and of course we received 30+ atmospheric rivers last water year. She predicted a dry December, a normal January and a wet February and March -- qualifying the prediction with fact that there are many other factors that could impact the outcome. Of course.

FYI, Jan is a man. We work with him quite often.

Remember, this is nature and forecasts are just that, forecasts. That NYE22 storm we are still recovering from was predicted to produce just shy of an inch of rain along the San Mateo Bayfront. We saw about 5 inches over a 24-hour period, with about 90% of that occurring over the maximum 12 hours.

P.S. Everyone should read Cadillac Desert, and I also recommend Arax's The Dreamt Land: Chasing Water and Dust Across California. Gets right at the heart of what 81alum is saying.

[jacket3ree]

LA Times, quoting Daniel Swain (climate scientist from UCLA) is reporting a 40% to 60% chance of a wet winter, at least in Southern California:

https://www.latimes.com/california/story...California

Scott Handel of the NOAA essentially repeated those odds, saying it's equally likely between dry and wet winter, but given the EL Nino conditions, they believe a slightly wetter-than-normal chance for the LA area.

Jan Null, meteorologist with the Golden Gate Weather Services says that the weather model indicated by La Nina called for dry conditions, and of course we received 30+ atmospheric rivers last water year. She predicted a dry December, a normal January and a wet February and March -- qualifying the prediction with fact that there are many other factors that could impact the outcome. Of course.

FYI, Jan is a man. We work with him quite often.

Remember, this is nature and forecasts are just that, forecasts. That NYE22 storm we are still recovering from was predicted to produce just shy of an inch of rain along the San Mateo Bayfront. We saw about 5 inches over a 24-hour period, with about 90% of that occurring over the maximum 12 hours.

P.S. Everyone should read Cadillac Desert, and I also recommend Arax's The Dreamt Land: Chasing Water and Dust Across California. Gets right at the heart of what 81alum is saying.

[Mick]

Forecasters are stating that after the strongest El Nino since 2015/2016, snowfall tracked from 1991 through 2020 suggests heavy snowfall in Northern California this winter. Brown indicates dryer-than-normal, blue indicates more snowfall than normal:

---

It's from this article:
New maps reveal who could see more snow this winter during a strong El Niño (msn.com)

[Mick]

Forecasters are stating that after the strongest El Nino since 2015/2016, snowfall tracked from 1991 through 2020 suggests heavy snowfall in Northern California this winter. Brown indicates dryer-than-normal, blue indicates more snowfall than normal:

---

It's from this article:
New maps reveal who could see more snow this winter during a strong El Niño (msn.com)

[Mick]

100% certainty El Nino will last through early winter (per Climate Prediction Center of the NOAA) and a 90% or higher chance that it lasts into spring. 75% to 85% chance that it will be a strong El Nino this winter, 30% chance that it will be one of the strongest ever recorded.

More snow and rain likely in California, less snow and rain likely in Hawaii, Oregon and Washington (compared with historic norms).

‘Strong’ El Niño winter coming: Here’s where we could see more snow

‘Historically strong’ El Niño possible: What it means for winter

[Mick]

100% certainty El Nino will last through early winter (per Climate Prediction Center of the NOAA) and a 90% or higher chance that it lasts into spring. 75% to 85% chance that it will be a strong El Nino this winter, 30% chance that it will be one of the strongest ever recorded.

More snow and rain likely in California, less snow and rain likely in Hawaii, Oregon and Washington (compared with historic norms).

‘Strong’ El Niño winter coming: Here’s where we could see more snow

‘Historically strong’ El Niño possible: What it means for winter

[Mick]

Anderson Dam in Santa Clara County is now a $2.3 billion fix. Less than two years ago, the estimate was $1.2 billion. Design is 90% done. Work to be completed from 2026 to 2032. Will likely see a water bond on next November's ballot...will definitely see higher water rates in Silicon Valley. They are also considering killing a $2.5 billion dam at Pacheco Pass, which environmentalists oppose.

https://www.mercurynews.com/2023/11/13/a...years-ago/

And Gavin Newsom is putting Stites Reservoir (Colusa and Glenn Counties, 1.5 million AF) on the fast track, which would be the largest dam constructed in California in a half-century.

https://www.mercurynews.com/2023/11/14/s...reservoir/

[Mick]

Anderson Dam in Santa Clara County is now a $2.3 billion fix. Less than two years ago, the estimate was $1.2 billion. Design is 90% done. Work to be completed from 2026 to 2032. Will likely see a water bond on next November's ballot...will definitely see higher water rates in Silicon Valley. They are also considering killing a $2.5 billion dam at Pacheco Pass, which environmentalists oppose.

https://www.mercurynews.com/2023/11/13/a...years-ago/

And Gavin Newsom is putting Stites Reservoir (Colusa and Glenn Counties, 1.5 million AF) on the fast track, which would be the largest dam constructed in California in a half-century.

https://www.mercurynews.com/2023/11/14/s...reservoir/

[M T]

Water, like many other resources, is subject to supply and demand.  Something has to give.  Building more housing in the areas with no water means that water usage has to stop elsewhere -- generally agriculture.

Sites reservoir:  "This will be an off-stream reservoir, siphoning water off the nearby Sacramento River.
The idea is to take the water during high river flows — particularly during flood threats — and hold it until river water is low."

Hmmm.... Rivers run the easiest route downhill.  I guess this "siphoning" (a term which I suspect is not used in the technical sense) is going to require pumping.  To pump enough water out during high river flows to significantly affect flooding will require really big pumps (and lots of power).   It will also require large aqueducts to move the water fast enough to the reservoir.

Note this reservoir is downstream of the Shasta dam.  The USGS indicates the highest water flow in downtown Sacramento was 108,800 cu ft/sec in 1986 (while still 3 feet below flood stage -- but this flow might flood other portions of the river).   In March 2023, my estimate from the river stage readings is that the maximum flow was about 90,000 cu ft/sec.  The maximum flow rate in 2017 & 2018 was just under 80,000 cubic feet/sec, and obviously much lower until early 2023.

Say the Sacramento River has 14 days of "high river flows" a year.  If they're only taking water out during that time and think they'll fill the reservoir, they'd need to move 100,000 acre-feet a day = 54,000 cfs, about 2/3 the average flow of Niagra Falls.  Obviously, they're not really planning to fill the reservoir during a 2-week period, but this calculation is just to give a feel for how much it would take to reduce the flow of the Sacramento during a flood.

So, I question whether they're planning to do New Orleans-style (45,000 cfs) pumping "particularly during flood threats".  I suspect that is a politician talking.  Judging from the 1986 & 1987 flow information, 1,200 cfs was equivalent to 3.6" difference in the height of the river.

[M T]

Water, like many other resources, is subject to supply and demand.  Something has to give.  Building more housing in the areas with no water means that water usage has to stop elsewhere -- generally agriculture.

Sites reservoir:  "This will be an off-stream reservoir, siphoning water off the nearby Sacramento River.
The idea is to take the water during high river flows — particularly during flood threats — and hold it until river water is low."

Hmmm.... Rivers run the easiest route downhill.  I guess this "siphoning" (a term which I suspect is not used in the technical sense) is going to require pumping.  To pump enough water out during high river flows to significantly affect flooding will require really big pumps (and lots of power).   It will also require large aqueducts to move the water fast enough to the reservoir.

Note this reservoir is downstream of the Shasta dam.  The USGS indicates the highest water flow in downtown Sacramento was 108,800 cu ft/sec in 1986 (while still 3 feet below flood stage -- but this flow might flood other portions of the river).   In March 2023, my estimate from the river stage readings is that the maximum flow was about 90,000 cu ft/sec.  The maximum flow rate in 2017 & 2018 was just under 80,000 cubic feet/sec, and obviously much lower until early 2023.

Say the Sacramento River has 14 days of "high river flows" a year.  If they're only taking water out during that time and think they'll fill the reservoir, they'd need to move 100,000 acre-feet a day = 54,000 cfs, about 2/3 the average flow of Niagra Falls.  Obviously, they're not really planning to fill the reservoir during a 2-week period, but this calculation is just to give a feel for how much it would take to reduce the flow of the Sacramento during a flood.

So, I question whether they're planning to do New Orleans-style (45,000 cfs) pumping "particularly during flood threats".  I suspect that is a politician talking.  Judging from the 1986 & 1987 flow information, 1,200 cfs was equivalent to 3.6" difference in the height of the river.

[82lsju]

Anderson Dam in Santa Clara County is now a $2.3 billion fix. Less than two years ago, the estimate was $1.2 billion. Design is 90% done. Work to be completed from 2026 to 2032. Will likely see a water bond on next November's ballot...will definitely see higher water rates in Silicon Valley. They are also considering killing a $2.5 billion dam at Pacheco Pass, which environmentalists oppose.

https://www.mercurynews.com/2023/11/13/a...years-ago/



And Gavin Newsom is putting Stites Reservoir (Colusa and Glenn Counties, 1.5 million AF) on the fast track, which would be the largest dam constructed in California in a half-century.

https://www.mercurynews.com/2023/11/14/s...reservoir/

I would not be at all surprised if once the upgrade is done at Anderson the total bill will be $2.5b+

As to the proposed Pacheo Pass site if the current estimate is $2.5b there is no way it comes in for less than $5b (and probably more than $5b)

[82lsju]

Anderson Dam in Santa Clara County is now a $2.3 billion fix. Less than two years ago, the estimate was $1.2 billion. Design is 90% done. Work to be completed from 2026 to 2032. Will likely see a water bond on next November's ballot...will definitely see higher water rates in Silicon Valley. They are also considering killing a $2.5 billion dam at Pacheco Pass, which environmentalists oppose.

https://www.mercurynews.com/2023/11/13/a...years-ago/



And Gavin Newsom is putting Stites Reservoir (Colusa and Glenn Counties, 1.5 million AF) on the fast track, which would be the largest dam constructed in California in a half-century.

https://www.mercurynews.com/2023/11/14/s...reservoir/

I would not be at all surprised if once the upgrade is done at Anderson the total bill will be $2.5b+

As to the proposed Pacheo Pass site if the current estimate is $2.5b there is no way it comes in for less than $5b (and probably more than $5b)

[Leftcoast]

I don't understand the Pacheco Pass project.  There's no nearby elevations with drainage so will all the water be pumped up from the delta (ala San Luis Reservoir?).  There should be many other more efficient storage options.

[Leftcoast]

I don't understand the Pacheco Pass project.  There's no nearby elevations with drainage so will all the water be pumped up from the delta (ala San Luis Reservoir?).  There should be many other more efficient storage options.

[82lsju]

P.S. Everyone should read Cadillac Desert, and I also recommend Arax's The Dreamt Land: Chasing Water and Dust Across California. Gets right at the heart of what 81alum is saying.

have you read 

Liquid Asset: How Business and Government Can Partner to Solve the Freshwater Crisis

https://law.stanford.edu/stanford-lawyer...iquidasset

[82lsju]

P.S. Everyone should read Cadillac Desert, and I also recommend Arax's The Dreamt Land: Chasing Water and Dust Across California. Gets right at the heart of what 81alum is saying.

have you read 

Liquid Asset: How Business and Government Can Partner to Solve the Freshwater Crisis

https://law.stanford.edu/stanford-lawyer...iquidasset

[TonyLima]

Anderson Dam in Santa Clara County is now a $2.3 billion fix. Less than two years ago, the estimate was $1.2 billion. Design is 90% done. Work to be completed from 2026 to 2032. Will likely see a water bond on next November's ballot...will definitely see higher water rates in Silicon Valley. They are also considering killing a $2.5 billion dam at Pacheco Pass, which environmentalists oppose.

https://www.mercurynews.com/2023/11/13/a...years-ago/

And Gavin Newsom is putting Stites Reservoir (Colusa and Glenn Counties, 1.5 million AF) on the fast track, which would be the largest dam constructed in California in a half-century.

https://www.mercurynews.com/2023/11/14/s...reservoir/

I'll believe Sites is fast-tracked when I see a CEQA waiver coming out of the governor's office.  Without that, you're looking at ten years of litigation.

[TonyLima]

Anderson Dam in Santa Clara County is now a $2.3 billion fix. Less than two years ago, the estimate was $1.2 billion. Design is 90% done. Work to be completed from 2026 to 2032. Will likely see a water bond on next November's ballot...will definitely see higher water rates in Silicon Valley. They are also considering killing a $2.5 billion dam at Pacheco Pass, which environmentalists oppose.

https://www.mercurynews.com/2023/11/13/a...years-ago/

And Gavin Newsom is putting Stites Reservoir (Colusa and Glenn Counties, 1.5 million AF) on the fast track, which would be the largest dam constructed in California in a half-century.

https://www.mercurynews.com/2023/11/14/s...reservoir/

I'll believe Sites is fast-tracked when I see a CEQA waiver coming out of the governor's office.  Without that, you're looking at ten years of litigation.

[Mick]

Anderson Dam in Santa Clara County is now a $2.3 billion fix. Less than two years ago, the estimate was $1.2 billion. Design is 90% done. Work to be completed from 2026 to 2032. Will likely see a water bond on next November's ballot...will definitely see higher water rates in Silicon Valley. They are also considering killing a $2.5 billion dam at Pacheco Pass, which environmentalists oppose.

https://www.mercurynews.com/2023/11/13/a...years-ago/

And Gavin Newsom is putting Stites Reservoir (Colusa and Glenn Counties, 1.5 million AF) on the fast track, which would be the largest dam constructed in California in a half-century.

https://www.mercurynews.com/2023/11/14/s...reservoir/

I'll believe Sites is fast-tracked when I see a CEQA waiver coming out of the governor's office.  Without that, you're looking at ten years of litigation.

Like this one?

https://ceqanet.opr.ca.gov/2022030503

https://files.ceqanet.opr.ca.gov/277266-...J-kzgN_Hx0

[Mick]

Anderson Dam in Santa Clara County is now a $2.3 billion fix. Less than two years ago, the estimate was $1.2 billion. Design is 90% done. Work to be completed from 2026 to 2032. Will likely see a water bond on next November's ballot...will definitely see higher water rates in Silicon Valley. They are also considering killing a $2.5 billion dam at Pacheco Pass, which environmentalists oppose.

https://www.mercurynews.com/2023/11/13/a...years-ago/

And Gavin Newsom is putting Stites Reservoir (Colusa and Glenn Counties, 1.5 million AF) on the fast track, which would be the largest dam constructed in California in a half-century.

https://www.mercurynews.com/2023/11/14/s...reservoir/

I'll believe Sites is fast-tracked when I see a CEQA waiver coming out of the governor's office.  Without that, you're looking at ten years of litigation.

Like this one?

https://ceqanet.opr.ca.gov/2022030503

https://files.ceqanet.opr.ca.gov/277266-...J-kzgN_Hx0