West-side farmers get irrigation boost
Posted by: Maven on March 29, 2011 at 8:52 amFrom ABC Channel 30:
“Farmers on the Valley’s west-side got a bit of good news on Monday. The Bureau of Reclamation increased the farmers’ water delivery by ten-percent, upping their allocation to 65-percent of normal.
Now a new bill introduced this week could put the heavy snowpack to greater use.
Towering Friant Dam is already filled to 85-percent of its capacity so 14-thousand acre feet of water are now being released every day. But the water pouring into the San Joaquin River isn’t reserved for Valley farmers. … “
Continue reading from ABC Channel 30 by clicking here, or watch the newscast below:
This just in … Reclamation announces increased allocations for CVP contractors
Posted by: Maven on March 28, 2011 at 1:25 pmFrom the Bureau of Reclamation, this press release:
“Following on the commitment by Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar to continually monitor and evaluate the reservoir levels and water run-off within California's Central Valley Project (CVP) to determine if additional supplies can be made available to CVP water contractors as quickly as possible, the Bureau of Reclamation today announces increases to the water supply allocations for users south of the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta for the 2011 contract year.
On March 22, Reclamation announced increases to the 2011 water supply allocations for South-of-Delta agricultural and Municipal and Industrial (M&I) water users from 50 to 55 percent and 75 to 80 percent, respectively. Now, additional precipitation in California, which has been used to update runoff projections, allows for further increases to the allocations. The allocation for South-of-Delta agricultural water service contractors is increased from 55 percent to 65 percent of their contract total, and the allocation for South-of-Delta M&I contractors is increased from 80 percent to 90 percent of historic use.
“The allocation now exceeds the 20-year average of 62 percent for South-of-Delta agricultural water service contractors, and additional increases are still possible. It should be noted, however, that due to the deterioration in the Delta environment, restrictions in South-of-Delta pumping are likely to continue during certain times of the year,\” said Reclamation Commissioner Michael Connor. “The Bay-Delta Conservation Plan offers the best opportunity for a comprehensive solution that addresses the dual needs of water supply reliability and environmental restoration, and we remain committed to that effort.
Reclamation will continue to monitor all developing water supply data and look for additional opportunities to increase the allocations in the coming weeks.Continue reading “This just in … Reclamation announces increased allocations for CVP contractors” »
Water, water everywhere but not for farmers
Posted by: Maven on March 26, 2011 at 9:30 amFrom the Bay-Citizen:
“California is awash with water and its mountains are coated with thick layers of snow. That will mean good news this summer for households, businesses and other water users who have endured years of drought.
But despite the flush conditions, created by relentless winter storms rolling in from the Pacific Ocean, one group will be forced to continue cutting back dramatically.
San Joaquin Valley farms, which provide most of the state's produce, have been warned by the federal government to expect near drought-like water allocations this year from the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta system. … “
Continue reading from the Bay-Citizen by clicking here.
Feinstein on water allocation: ‘Worst I’ve seen in years’
Posted by: Maven on March 26, 2011 at 9:25 am
From the website of Senator Dianne Feinstein:
“U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) today released a statement on continuing shortfalls in water allocations for farmers in the San Joaquin Valley.
Also today, Fresno District Court Judge Oliver Wanger held a hearing on the validity of the biological opinion on salmon that influences water allocations for California.
Following is Senator Feinstein's statement:
“The disconnect in federal water allocations is the worst I've seen in years. South-of-Delta farmers are getting only 55 percent of contractual amounts, a shocking number when the state snowpack is as high as 165 percent. That is simply unacceptable.
“Here is the problem: when we do see torrential rainstorms, water allocations do not increase. That's because we lack reservoirs and other infrastructure to store it. Until we learn to effectively harness what water we have, we'll continue to suffer shortages statewide.
Reclamation increases releases from Shasta Dam to the Sacramento River
Posted by: Maven on March 25, 2011 at 3:31 pm
From Bureau of Reclamation, this press release:
“For flood control management, the Bureau of Reclamation will increase Shasta Dam releases today by 20,000 cubic feet per second, bringing the total releases from the dam to 40,000 cfs into the Sacramento River. The increased releases are necessary to meet flood space regulatory requirements within the reservoir and will remain at that rate until further notice. Shasta Dam is located about 12 miles north of Redding.
Folsom Dam on the American River will gradually reduce releases on Monday and Tuesday, from 20,000 cfs to 15,000 cfs. Folsom Dam is located about 25 miles east of Sacramento.
People recreating in or along the Sacramento or American rivers should take appropriate safety precautions during periods of high river flows. … “
For more information, click here.
Senator Feinstein: CVP water allocation shows need for ‘comprehensive water solution’
Posted by: Maven on March 25, 2011 at 8:40 amFrom the website of Senator Dianne Feinstein:
“U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) released the following statement regarding the Central Valley Project water allocation announcement made on Tuesday by the Bureau of Reclamation.
“In the past, the amounts of rain we've seen this year would mean significantly higher South-of-Delta water allocations. Instead, municipal and industrial water users have seen their allocation increased to 80 percent, while the allocation for agriculture has risen to only 55 percent. Every other federal water user in the state will continue to receive 100 percent of their contractual allocation.
“This disconnect illustrates the need for a comprehensive water solution with both short-term and long-term measures. We need to focus on ecosystem repair as well as new storage and infrastructure to capture and divert the types of abundant flood flows we are seeing this year.”
Congressman Denham responds to CVP allocation
Posted by: Maven on March 24, 2011 at 7:53 amFrom Congressman Jeff Denham’s website, this reaction to the CVP allocations:
” “It is ridiculous that farmers will only receive 55% of the water allocated to them in their contracts this year,\” said Rep. Denham. “With reservoirs in flood operations and 300,000 acre-feet of water flowing from the Delta into the Pacific Ocean on a daily basis, it is inexcusable that farmers south of the Delta are not receiving 100% allocation. The Administration's support of extreme environmental policies has hampered the farmers and families of the Central Valley for too long. The time for inaction is over. In order to bolster the economic growth and create jobs we must get our priorities straight and bring water to the Valley.
Federal officials promise more water for Central Valley Project
Posted by: Maven on March 23, 2011 at 9:55 amFrom the Sacramento Bee:
“Federal officials today increased their water delivery forecast in response to the bountiful winter. Now, virtually all contractors who buy water from the federal government can expect full normal deliveries this summer.
The glaring exception is agricultural customers south of the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, which got only a 5 percent increase, to 55 percent of full contract amounts. The explanation comes back to difficulties in pumping water from the Delta without harming endangered fish species. … “
Continue reading from the Sacramento Bee by clicking here.
Congressmen Cardoza & Costa react to Water and Power Subcommittee hearing, new Water Allocation Announcement
Posted by: Maven on March 23, 2011 at 9:54 amFrom the website of Congressman Dennis Cardoza:
“Today, Congressman Dennis Cardoza (D-Merced) and Congressman Jim Costa (D-Fresno) released the following statement:
“We are pleased with the decision by Natural Resources Committee Chairman Doc Hastings and Water and Power Subcommittee Chairman Tom McClintock to hold a hearing in Fresno on the impact of burdensome regulations on the water supply of the San Joaquin Valley. Nothing demonstrates the devastating impact of these regulations more than the Bureau of Reclamation's announcement today of just 5% more water for our Valley.
“When the President flies to San Francisco next month, we hope he takes the time to look out the window and see the impact his Administration is having on the forgotten San Joaquin Valley's water supply. Unlike previous years when federal officials could legitimately claim that water supply reductions were due, in part, to drought conditions, this year demonstrates the draconian impact these regulations have on the people who live and work on the Westside of the San Joaquin Valley. … “
Continue reading from Congressman Cardoza’s website by clicking here.
This just in … Reclamation announces updated 2011 Water Supply Allocation for California’s CVP
Posted by: Maven on March 22, 2011 at 1:26 pmFrom the Bureau of Reclamation:
“The Bureau of Reclamation today announced an update to its Central Valley Project (CVP) Water Supply Allocation for the 2011 contract year. This updated allocation reflects improved precipitation and snowpack in the Sierra Nevadas to date.
“Thanks to a steady influx of rain and snowfall in February and March, the CVP water supply is above average for this date,” Reclamation Commissioner Michael Connor said today. “The initial allocation on February 18, 2011, for most CVP contractors was 100 percent of their contract supply. Today we announce an increase for South-of-Delta agricultural water service contractors from their initial allocation of 50 percent to 55 percent. The South-of-Delta Municipal and Industrial (M&I) water service contractors will also see an increase from 75 percent to 80 percent of historic use.” … “
Continue reading from the Bureau of Reclamation by clicking here.
Seems to be plenty of water around; yesterday, the Bureau of Reclamation announced extra water for Friant contractors.
Judge Wanger rejects water suit over CVP deliveries
Posted by: Maven on March 4, 2011 at 9:14 amFrom the Capital Press:
“The U.S. Interior Department did not violate reclamation law by curtailing water deliveries to irrigators in California’s Central Valley Project, according to a federal judge.
Plaintiffs in the case — the San Luis Unit Food Producers — claimed that several federal reclamation statutes require the Interior Department to deliver water to irrigators.
The group filed a complaint in 2009, alleging the government had violated the statutes by unlawfully withholding water, allowing “works to sit substantially idle so that water may flow to the Pacific” for environmental purposes. … “
Continue reading from the Capital Press by clicking here.
Spreck Rosekrans: Beyond the politics : an improved water supply outlook for California in 2011
Posted by: Maven on February 22, 2011 at 8:23 amFrom Spreck Rosekrans at the Environmental Defense Fund’s On the Water Front blog:
“For those that follow California's “water wars\”, it was tough to find the love on Valentine's Day last week after the House of Representatives voted to defund federal agencies' ability to implement the Endangered Species Act and the San Joaquin River restoration plan. These radical proposals, opposed even by some of the water agencies they are intended to help, are just one piece of the much larger political battle taking place in the halls of Congress over our national budget.
But Friday's water supply announcement by the Bureau of Reclamation reminds us that the effect of the Endangered Species Act's “Biological Opinions\” to protect Delta smelt and salmon are limited in scope and do not affect the vast majority of California agriculture. The Bureau's Central Valley Project expects to deliver full contract supplies for almost 5,000,000 acre-feet of water to farmers throughout the Central Valley. It is only on the west side of the San Joaquin Valley that Agricultural Service contractors will receive only 50% of their maximum contract entitlement : roughly 1,000,000 acre-feet out of 2,000,000 acre-feet. … “
Continue reading from the On the Water Front blog by clicking here.
This just in … Secretary Salazar announces improved initial 2011 water supply allocation for California’s Central Valley Project
Posted by: Maven on February 18, 2011 at 2:25 pmFrom YubaNet.com:
“Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar today announced the Bureau of Reclamation’s Initial Central Valley Project (CVP) Water Supply Allocation for the 2011 contract year. This allocation reflects precipitation and snowpack in the Sierra Nevada to date and improved carryover reservoir storage.
“Thanks to heavy storms in the last months of 2010, the CVP water supply is generally above-average for this date despite a dry January,” said Secretary Salazar. “Although this allocation is greatly improved over 2010′s initial allocation, and most CVP contractors will receive 100 percent of their contract supply, South- of-Delta water service contractors still face challenging water supply conditions, particularly given the past few dry years and regulatory constraints. We will continue to work with our federal, state and local partners to secure more reliable water supplies for water users South-of-Delta while addressing significant ecological issues.” … “
Continue reading from YubaNet.com by clicking here.
Tuesday’s top of the scroll: Reclamation announces additional water available for California’s Central Valley Project South-of-Delta Contractors
Posted by: Maven on February 8, 2011 at 8:49 amFrom the Bureau of Reclamation:
“Bureau of Reclamation Commissioner Michael Connor announced today that Reclamation has determined that current hydrologic conditions in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, export and operational capability at the C.W. “Bill” Jones Pumping Plant (Jones Pumping Plant), and storage conditions at San Luis Reservoir have provided an opportunity to make available otherwise non-storable Section 215 water for Central Valley Project (CVP) South-of-Delta contractors.
“We attribute the availability of this water to improved conditions in 2010 and 2011 that have allowed Reclamation to operate the Jones Pumping Plant at near capacity since July 1, 2010,” stated Connor. “This action will allow the CVP to better meet South-of-Delta water needs while we continue to work with all interests to find a balanced long-term solution to the Delta.”
The federal share of San Luis Reservoir, which totals about 965,000 acre-feet, filled on February 6, 2011, and current CVP water demands in the South-of-Delta service area are less than the operational and export capability at the Jones Pumping Plant; therefore, additional water may be made available in the CVP service area to meet other water demands. This announcement means that Reclamation can deliver water to those contractors that enter into a “Temporary Water Service Contract for Surplus Water” with Reclamation. … “
Continue reading from the Bureau of Reclamation by clicking here.
Doug Obegi/NRDC: Allocations show a better water year for California
Posted by: Maven on January 27, 2011 at 7:57 amFrom Doug Obegi at the NRDC Switchboard blog:
“Thankfully, 2011 is shaping up to be a better water year than the past several years, which is great news for farmers, fishermen, cities, and the environment. The Central Valley Project is estimating it will deliver more than 7.1 million acre feet to farmers and cities throughout California, which is around 75% of the CVP's total maximum contract amounts. The State Water Project is estimating it will deliver 60% of maximum contract amounts of 4.23 million acre-feet. Together, that's nearly 10 million acre-feet of water that will be drawn for our rivers and streams for consumptive use this year by the SWP and CVP. … “
Continue reading from the NRDC Switchboard blog by clicking here.
Friant Forecast: Less water for contractors
Posted by: Maven on January 22, 2011 at 7:46 amFrom the Porterville Recorder:
“The December Deluge is turning into a January Jump in water deliveries for eastside growers.
A “conservative forecast\” is calling for Friant Division contractors to receive 100 percent of Class 1 water and 15 percent of Class 2 water in 2011, Friant Water Authority General Manager Ron Jacobsma said Thursday.
Friant Division contractors, whose water supply is delivered from Millerton Reservoir on the San Joaquin River, are forecasted to receive 800,000 acre feet of Class 1 water and 210,000 acre feet out of a possible 1.4 million acre feet of Class 2 water. … “
Continue reading from the Porterville Recorder by clicking here.
Congressman McClintock: Water, water everywhere…except for California’s farms
Posted by: Maven on January 20, 2011 at 8:59 amFrom the Auburn Journal, Congressman Tom McClintock’s remarks regarding the potential 45% water allocation for Central Valley farmers:
“M. Speaker:
The Department of Interior issued an announcement yesterday that perfectly illustrates the irrationality of our current approach to water issues.
California's precipitation this season has gone off the charts. Statewide snow water content is 198 percent of normal; in the all-important Northern Sierra snowpack is 174 percent of normal. This is not only a wet year : it is one of the wettest years on record.
Yet yesterday, we have this announcement from the Department of the Interior: that despite a nearly unprecedented abundance of water, the Bureau of Reclamation will only guarantee delivery of 45 percent of the California Central Valley's contracted water supply south of the Delta. This is the same percentage they received last year with barely average rainfall.
This is of crucial importance to the entire nation, since the Central Valley of California is one of the largest producers of our nation's food supply. California produces half of the U.S.-grown fruits, nuts and vegetables on the nation's grocery shelves and the prices you pay are directly affected by the California harvest. … “
Continue reading from the Auburn Journal by clicking here.
Wednesday’s top of the scroll: Feds deliver optimistic forecast for water deliveries, but water forecast still falls short for Valley farmers
Posted by: Maven on January 19, 2011 at 8:46 am
From the Sacramento Bee:
“Federal officials on Tuesday unveiled a water supply projection for 2011 that is considerably rosier than last year.
Thanks to a Sierra Nevada snowpack that stands at 198 percent of normal for this date, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation announced that its urban water customers north of the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta are likely to get 100 percent of their contract water deliveries. That compares to 55 percent projected at this time last year. … “
Continue reading from the Sacramento Bee by clicking here.
From the San Francisco Chronicle:
” … Though the first water allocations won’t be official until February – and this winter’s La Niña pattern could still deliver a dry February and March – the state’s multibillion-dollar agriculture industry is heartened by the early estimates. Between 2006 and 2009, especially dry weather and environmental restrictions on pumping through the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta forced farmers to fallow fields and plow under water-hungry crops, said Paul Wenger, president of the California Farm Bureau Federation.
“It’s been wet early, so that allows folks to start planting seasonal fruits and vegetables in the valley that they might not have in the past few years – tomatoes, melons, peppers and other commodities,” said Wenger, a Modesto area almond and walnut grower. … “
Continue reading from the San Francisco Chronicle by clicking here.
From the Fresno Bee:
” … Federal officials predicted west-side growers will get 45% of their full allotment of Central Valley Project water this season. The forecast was only 5% last year and zero in 2009.
If the big storms of this winter continue, the allotment could rise, the Interior Department says. The Sierra snowpack is nearly 160% of average right now.
Tuesday’s forecast means farmers can make earlier plans this year for loans and row crops, such as tomatoes or cotton. The higher forecast this early may allow a 50% increase in cotton acreage in Fresno County.
But for farmers with permanent crops, such as orchards, 45% won’t be enough. … “
Continue reading from the Fresno Bee by clicking here.
MORE COVERAGE:
- Sacramento suburbs told to expect 100% of federal water allotments, from the Sacramento Bee
- Tulare County reservoirs rise, from the Visalia Times-Delta
- Interior cites encouraging outlook for 2011 water supply allocations for California’s Central Valley Project, from YubaNet.com
Photo of Mammoth snow by flickr photographer Chief Ranger.
Congressman Cardoza: Water shortage during rainy year shows system is broken: “When you consider the above-average rainfall we’ve had this year … we should have been given 100% of our contract supply”
Posted by: Maven on January 19, 2011 at 8:33 am
From the website of Congressman Dennis Cardoza:
“Congressman Dennis Cardoza (CA-18) today responded to the Department of Interior's first forecast of 2011 Water Supply Allocations for California's Central Valley. While precipitation and snowpack in the Sierra Nevada Mountains are significantly above average this year, agricultural water service contractors in the South-of-Delta region are only forecasted to receive 45 percent of their contract supply : the same percentage as they received in 2010.
“Compared to what farmers in the San Joaquin experienced during these past few years, 45% is a good first step, and we will hold the Department of Interior to its commitment to increase the allocation as the water year develops,\” said Congressman Cardoza. “But when you consider the above-average rainfall we've had this year, and the fact that by the federal government's own estimates the snowpack in the Northern Sierras is at 174 percent of average, we should have been given 100% of our contract supply. The reality is that we've had great conditions this year, and yet our water allocation remained the same because of our broken water regulatory system in California.
“This needs to change. We need common sense in our regulatory system and additional storage facilities so that, during times of plenty, water can be set aside for use during periods of drought. I will fight to increase our 2011 water allocation, and also to repair the broken regulatory process so our farmers get the fair treatment they need to grow our nation's food.
Last year, Congressman Cardoza successfully fought to increase the water allocation for Westside San Joaquin Valley farmers from an initial 5% in February's forecast up to a final allocation of 45% in June.
Today's forecast will be followed by an official water allocation announcement of Water Year 2011 in mid-February. “
This just in … Feds increase Valley water allocation to 45%
Posted by: Maven on January 18, 2011 at 3:28 pmFrom the Central Valley Business Times:
“The U.S. Department of the Interior Tuesday says it expects to supply 45 percent of the amount of water contracted for to south of the Delta agricultural contractors from its Central Valley Project in 2011, according to Rep. Jim Costa, D-Fresno.
Last year's initial water allocation was 5 percent.
“This is good news for Valley jobs and our economy,\” says Mr. Costa. “An increased forecast will allow our farmers to start planning for the coming growing season. Advanced planning will have a ripple effect throughout our economy, from growers to local businesses. … “
Continue reading from the Central Valley Business Times by clicking here.
Friant-Kern Canal getting needed repairs
Posted by: Maven on December 4, 2010 at 10:18 amFrom the Porterville Recorder:
“Like most things 50 years old, the Friant Kern Canal is in need of a little maintenance now and then.
This month workers with the Friant Water Users Authority are draining the 152-mile cement canal for its three-year checkup and repairs.
“We dewater the canal every three years. It's a tri-annual effort,\” said Ron Jacobsma, general manager of the Water Authority. … “
Continue reading from the Porterville Recorder by clicking here.
Intertie hailed as important step
Posted by: Maven on October 22, 2010 at 8:13 amFrom the Capital Press:
“After declaring victory on a long-fought effort to connect the state and federal water projects with a new pipeline, politicians and government officials are hoping they can build momentum for solving California’s continuing water challenges.
At an Oct. 14 groundbreaking ceremony near Tracy, U.S. Interior Secretary Ken Salazar called the project — the Delta-Mendota Canal/California Aqueduct Intertie, a short pipeline that will connect the federal and state conveyance facilities — a demonstration of what state and federal agencies can accomplish together.
“Something that started decades ago is now becoming reality,” Salazar said. “While we celebrate the progress today .. we have some very significant challenges ahead of us.” … “
Continue reading from the Capital Press by clicking here.
Ground finally broken on Delta ‘intertie’
Posted by: Maven on October 18, 2010 at 8:49 amFrom the Stockton Record:
“The fact that little has been done to expand California’s water infrastructure over the past half century might explain why a member of the Obama Cabinet, a senior U.S. senator and more than a dozen other elected officials celebrated as “historic” a 500-foot-long pipe on Thursday.
When it’s built, that pipeline – known as the “intertie” – will connect the California Aqueduct with the Delta-Mendota Canal west of Tracy, allowing more water to be exported from the Delta under certain conditions.
This is just the beginning, officials vowed. One water exporter suggested that Thursday’s groundbreaking could be a “dress rehearsal for much bigger things to come” – such as, perhaps, a peripheral canal or tunnel. … “
Continue reading from the Stockton Record by clicking here.
Moving water will get easier: New south of Delta pipeline will tie the San Joaquin River flow to the California Aqueduct
Posted by: Maven on August 1, 2010 at 7:03 am
From Sierra 2 the Sea:
“A water project that will help water users move water where it is needed and even recirculate water used for San Joaquin River restoration is moving forward this fall just as the world enters an apparent La Nina climate pattern. A cooling of the equatorial waters, La Nina typically means drier conditions in the Southwest but sometimes more rain in the northern part of California. The weather pattern is likely to affect the state's rainfall this winter.
Advocates of additional water infrastructure in California have made the argument that connecting the state with dams and canals helps meet critical water needs for urban, farm and environmental purposes. Long term climate change is likely to increase the need to capture and store supply as well as insure reliability to move water south of the Delta where most of the state's population lives. … “
Continue reading from Sierra 2 the Sea by clicking here.
Friday’s top of the scroll: California Aqueduct/Delta-Mendota intertie project gets $14.6 Million
Posted by: Maven on July 30, 2010 at 7:33 amFrom the Central Valley Business Times:
“A $14.6 million contract, with the money coming from the federal stimulus act, has been awarded to Shimmick Construction of Oakland to build a pumping plant and pipeline to link the Delta-Mendota Canal and the California Aqueduct.
The project is about five miles west of Tracy and when completed is expected to allow greater utilization of the capacity at the state and federal Jones Pumping Plant. The “Intertie\” will also allow for maintenance and repair activities and provide a greater ability to respond to emergencies, the government says. … “
Continue reading from the Central Valley Business Times by clicking here.
Secretary Salazar announces $14.6 million of economic recovery funding for Delta-Mendota Canal/California Aqueduct Intertie Pumping Plant, underground pipeline
Posted by: Maven on July 30, 2010 at 7:31 amFrom the Bureau of Reclamation, this press release:
“Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced today that the Bureau of Reclamation's Mid-Pacific Region has awarded a $14.6 million contract under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) for construction of the Delta-Mendota Canal/California Aqueduct Intertie Pumping Plant and Pipeline (Intertie).
“These stimulus funds will not only help the economy and provide jobs, but also will contribute to the actions being taken to help alleviate California's water crisis,\” said Secretary Salazar. “The Intertie adds flexibility through the use of existing facilities while increasing the reliability of water projects in California's Central Valley.
With this ARRA award, Reclamation is initiating the construction phase of the project. The $14.6 million award was issued to Shimmick Construction of Oakland, Calif. for building a pumping station and underground pipeline connection, installing four pumps and motors and building an electrical switchyard. Construction is expected to begin in fall 2010 and be completed by early 2012.
When completed, the Intertie will connect the Delta-Mendota Canal (DMC) and the California Aqueduct to relieve DMC conveyance limitations, allow for maintenance and repair activities, and provide the flexibility to respond to Central Valley Project and State Water Project emergency water operations. The project was identified as a proposed action in the August 2000 CALFED Bay-Delta Program Programmatic Record of Decision. The new facility will be located between the DMC and California Aqueduct approximately five miles west of the City of Tracy, California.
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act enacted in 2009 gave $3 billion to the Department of the Interior.
The ARRA funds represent an important component of the President’s plan to jumpstart the economy and put a down payment on addressing long-neglected challenges so the country can thrive in the 21st century. Under the ARRA, Interior is making an investment in conserving America’s timeless treasures : our stunning natural landscapes, our monuments to liberty, the icons of our culture and heritage : while helping American families and their communities prosper again. Interior is also focusing on renewable energy projects, the needs of American Indians, employing youth and promoting community service.“With its investments of Recovery Act funds, the Department of the Interior and its bureaus are putting people to work today to make improvements that will benefit the environment and the region for many years to come,\” Secretary Salazar said.
Secretary Salazar has pledged unprecedented levels of transparency and accountability in the implementation of the Department's economic recovery projects. The public will be able to follow the progress of each project on www.recovery.gov and on www.interior.gov/recovery. Secretary Salazar has appointed a Senior Advisor for Economic Recovery, Chris Henderson, and an Interior Economic Recovery Task Force to work closely with Interior's Inspector General and ensure the recovery program is meeting the high standards for accountability, responsibility, and transparency set by President Obama.
Reclamation is the largest wholesale water supplier and the second largest producer of hydroelectric power in the United States, with operations and facilities in the 17 Western States. Its facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation, and fish and wildlife benefits. Visit Reclamation's website at www.usbr.gov.”
Tuesday’s top of the scroll: Feds boost west-side water deliveries to 45%
Posted by: Maven on June 15, 2010 at 8:15 amFrom the Fresno Bee (Michael Doyle, McClatchy News):
“Interior Department officials on Monday again boosted their planned irrigation water deliveries to the San Joaquin Valley, giving farmers 45% of their standard allocation.
The new allocation is up from a 40% allocation announced in May. Last year, west-side farmers got just 10%.
“This latest increase in allocation is a result of favorable weather conditions this spring and better-than-expected pumping conditions in the south Delta,\” Interior Secretary Ken Salazar explained Monday afternoon.
Other federal water allocations throughout California remain the same. Farmers north of the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta will still get 100% of their allocation, while municipal and industrial water users south of the Delta will still get 75%. … “
Continue reading this article from the Fresno Bee by clicking here.
From the AP via the Fresno Bee:
” … The extra water will allow farmers to sow 2,000 more acres of lettuce, as well as more melons, broccoli and cauliflower, said a spokeswoman for the Westlands Water District, the country’s largest irrigation district.
“This definitely is a dramatic change,” said Sarah Woolf. “This will increase some acreage, and will help farmers lower their need to pump well water.”
In normal years, Westlands farmers grow most of the country’s spring and fall lettuce. But three years of drought and pumping restrictions from the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta have forced growers to halve the number of acres devoted to the crop and lay off thousands of farmworkers. … “
Continue reading from the Fresno Bee by clicking here.
Senator Feinstein on increased allocations: ” … South-of-Delta farmers would be facing a different scenario if it weren’t for the administrative measures announced in February to secure the equivalent of an additional 8 to 10 percent allocation”
Posted by: Maven on June 15, 2010 at 8:06 amFrom the website of Senator Dianne Feinstein:
“The Department of the Interior today announced another increase in this year's water supply allocations for Central Valley Project users, and the news is very good.
Farmers on the west side of the San Joaquin Valley will now receive 45 percent of their contractual water supply. This is up from the 40 percent allocation announced last month, and a dramatic increase over the initial allocation of 5 percent announced early this year. As previously announced, farmers in the Sacramento Valley will receive their full contractual allocation.
With each federal allocation announcement this spring, Central Valley farmers have received even greater certainty that they will have sufficient water to plant, hire and harvest this year. This is very welcome news, particularly after three previous years of drought.
This increased allocation is due in large part to a series of heavy spring storms that replenished California's snowpack levels to above normal levels. But it's also true that South-of-Delta farmers would be facing a different scenario if it weren't for the administrative measures announced in February to secure the equivalent of an additional 8 to 10 percent allocation.
There is a long list of people who have dedicated countless hours to alleviate California's dire water crisis. This includes, in no particular order, Ken Salazar and David Hayes, Secretary and Deputy Secretary of the Interior, respectively; Senator Boxer, along with Representatives Costa and Cardoza; Lester Snow and Mark Cowin from the State of California; the Metropolitan Water District; the San Joaquin River Exchange Contractors; and the Friant Water Users Authority. Today's announcement wouldn't be possible without the perseverance, creativity, and resourcefulness of all of these individuals and groups.
The challenge that remains before us will be to identify longer-term solutions to restore the health of the fragile Delta, increase water storage, improve water recycling and build new conveyance. The stakes are too high to fail.”
Congressman Costa announces new water increase for the valley: “We took on Valley outsiders who tried to cut off our water. We also took on the Washington bureaucracy until they listened to our Valley’s message.”
Posted by: Maven on June 15, 2010 at 8:00 am
From the website of Congressman Jim Costa:
“Congressman Jim Costa today announced that the Interior Department will be increasing water allocations from the federal Central Valley Project to 45 percent for agricultural service contractors south of the Delta. Interior's latest announcement is another increase from the Department's initial announcement of 5 percent on February 26.
“Today's announcement means more water and more jobs for our Valley,\” said Costa. “This increase is also a sign of how far we've come in our fight for more water. This year, we started with the prospect of a zero water allocation. But our Valley fought back. We took on Valley outsiders who tried to cut off our water. We also took on the Washington bureaucracy until they listened to our Valley's message.
Last year, the Westside received a mere 10 percent allocation. Costa said that the Valley will be able to build on this year's success to secure more water next year.
“The progress we have made this year sets the table for more water to the flow to our Valley in coming water years,\” said Costa. “We still have more work to do, but we have turned a corner. I will continue to work to ensure that our Valley receives more of the water we need to succeed. “
Congressman Cardoza announces increase to 45% water allocation for valley farmers: “Our farmers are responsible for growing our nation’s food. With proper management, there is no reason we cannot provide them water and also protect the Delta ecosystem.”
Posted by: Maven on June 15, 2010 at 7:47 amFrom the website of Congressman Dennis Cardoza:
“Congressman Cardoza announced today that the Bureau of Reclamation will increase the water allocation for Westside San Joaquin Valley farmers by an additional 5 percent. The increase brings the total allocation to 45 percent.
In February, the initial allocation projected for Westside farmers was a mere 5 percent. Farmers said at the time they needed at least 40 percent of their water to survive the season.
“Obviously I am pleased with every increase of water we get,\” said Congressman Cardoza. “However, I remain equally frustrated: neither I nor our Valley farmers should ever have had to put up such a fight to obtain the water used to grow our nation's food. As I have done throughout my career, I will continue to fight for a more balanced and reasonable approach to managing our state's water system. Our farmers are responsible for growing our nation's food. With proper management, there is no reason we cannot provide them water and also protect the Delta ecosystem.
Last year, San Joaquin Valley farmers received just 10 percent of their annual water allocation. Congressman Cardoza has continued to advocate for the needs of farmers through a host of meetings, letters, and discussions with the Obama Administration.
Congressman Cardoza has maintained that pumping water to farmers is not the sole cause for declines of protected salmon and Delta smelt species. He has continued to argue that the Delta is being affected by multiple environmental stressors : such as urban runoff, wastewater discharges and nonnative predatory fish. … “
More from Congressman Cardoza by clicking here.
Valley west-side water allocation up to 30%; Growers in north state get good news
Posted by: Maven on April 16, 2010 at 7:09 amFrom the Fresno Bee:
“Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar on Thursday bumped up the allocation of irrigation water for west-side farmers to 30%, citing improved water conditions. Salazar also renewed his pledge to find an additional 8% to 10% for drought-stricken west San Joaquin Valley farmers. Salazar said he expects to secure an additional 150,000 to 200,000 acre-feet of water for west-side growers, who have battled three dry years and fallowed thousands of acres.
Last month, federal officials raised the water forecast from 5% to 25% of the amount that west San Joaquin Valley growers are allowed from the Central Valley Project.
Westlands Water District officials said the increase in water could prompt some growers to plant additional acres of row crops. But the real benefit may come in reducing the farmers’ heavy pumping from wells. “We know that we have used them to extreme excess,” said Sarah Woolf, Westlands’ spokeswoman. “And this will help relieve that.”
Read more from the Fresno Bee by clicking here.
From the Record Searchlight:
“North state growers will likely be getting all their federal water allocations this year after a string of wet storms this spring.
Federally supplied agricultural land north of the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta should receive all of its allocation this year, Interior Secretary Ken Salazar, whose department oversees the Bureau of Reclamation, announced Thursday. Last month he told the same growers in the Central Valley Project which stretches 500 miles from Lake Shasta to Bakersfield this year's allocation was set at only 50 percent.
He said the department sped up its announcement of allocation changes “in an effort to get the best available information to our contractors as quickly as possible to aid in their planning decisions for the upcoming season. … “
More from the Record Searchlight by clicking here.
Interior announces increased water supply allocations in California as Central Valley water supply continues to improve
Posted by: Maven on April 16, 2010 at 7:06 amFrom the U. S. Department of the Interior, this press release:
“Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar today announced that the Bureau of Reclamation's 2010 Central Valley Project Water Supply allocations have increased throughout the valley as a result of improved hydrologic conditions as they existed as of April 1, 2010 and as reflected in the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) April 2010 snow survey and runoff forecast.
“For the second consecutive month, we are accelerating our reporting of updated allocations, in an effort to get the best available information to our contractors as quickly as possible to aid in their planning decisions for the upcoming season,\” stated Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar.
Compared to the previous allocation and using a conservative forecast (generally referred to as the 90-percent exceedance forecast):
\Ӣ The allocation for Municipal and Industrial (M&I) water service contractors north of the Delta, including American River and Contra Costa M&I contractors, is 100 percent,up from 75 percent
\Ӣ M&I water service contractors south of the Delta remain at 75 percent allocation.
\Ӣ Agricultural water service contractors north of the Delta are allocated 100 percent,up from 50 percent.
\Ӣ Agricultural water service contractors south of the Delta are allocated 30 percent,up from 25 percent.
\Ӣ Friant Division agricultural water service contractors' allocation of Class 2 water supply increases to 15 percent,up from 10 percent; Class 1 allocation remains at 100 percent.
\Ӣ Eastside Division agricultural contractors' (Stanislaus River) allocation remains at 100 percent of their contract quantities (155,000 acre-feet).
\Ӣ The allocation for settlement contractors with claims to senior water rights along the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers remains at 100 percent of their contract quantities (approximately 2.4 million acre-feet).
\”¢ Wildlife refuges' allocation north and south of the Delta remains at 100 percent of their “Level 2\” water (approximately 400,000 acre-feet).“Serious water supply challenges still exist for South-of-Delta agricultural contractors in part as a result of 3 consecutive years of drought, early water year 2010 dry conditions, as well as operational constraints on the CVP to address water quality and fish species of concern,\” said Secretary Salazar. “As I announced in March of this year, we are committed to efforts to secure an additional 8 to 10 percent supply for agricultural contractors south of the Delta. We are expecting that up to 150,000 to 200,000 acre-feet can be secured to help supplement the South-of-Delta supplies. These amounts represent new supplies for 2010 not previously available to the west side of the San Joaquin Valley.
“It is through our strong partnerships that we can best address the Central Valley Project's water supply challenges : both short term and long term. We, along with agencies and stakeholders, are fully engaged in developing water supply solutions while at the same time honoring conservation requirements and contract responsibilities. added Secretary Salazar. “Working closely with Governor Schwarzenegger, Senators Feinstein and Boxer, Congressmen Miller, Costa, Cardoza, Thompson, and Grace Napolitano and other members of the Congressional delegation, plus all stakeholders, the Department is fully engaged in establishing solutions for a sustainable water supply in California.
Water supply updates will be made monthly or more often as necessary based on new information throughout the precipitation season. Additional information, including the allocation table, and water supply updates are posted on the Mid-Pacific Region's website at http://www.usbr.gov/mp/PA/water/.
Delta-Mendota Canal/California Aqueduct Intertie Pumping Plant, underground pipeline is awarded $20.7 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding
Posted by: Maven on April 13, 2010 at 9:04 pmFrom the U. S. Department of the Interior:
“The Department of the Interior announced today that the Bureau of Reclamation will provide $20.7 million for the Delta-Mendota Canal/California Aqueduct Intertie project under the 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).
“Reclamation's ARRA projects are meeting future water supply needs, improving infrastructure reliability and safety, safeguarding our environment while creating jobs in the West,\” Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar said. “The intertie connecting the Delta-Mendota Canal and the California Aqueduct will facilitate more efficient movement of water. This will help alleviate some of the difficulties caused by the three-year drought.
The intertie is designed to connect the Delta-Mendota Canal and the California Aqueduct via a new pipeline and pumping plant to help improve Delta-Mendota Canal conveyance limitations, allow for maintenance and repair activities, and provide the flexibility to respond to Central Valley Project and State Water Project emergency water operations. The project is scheduled to be online to deliver water in fall of 2011. This is a CALFED project which was identified in the August 2000 CALFED Bay-Delta Program Programmatic Record of Decision. … “
Read more from this press release by clicking here.
From the website of Congressman Jim Costa:
“Congressmen Jim Costa (D-Fresno) and Dennis Cardoza (D-Merced) today announced $20.7 million for the Intertie project that will link the Delta Mendota Canal to the California Aqueduct. The project will deliver water to San Joaquin Valley farmers who are in the most need of assistance during the water supply crisis. The funds are provided through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and are expected to provide the required funding to complete the project.
“This funding is another step forward in our fight for the Valley,\” said Congressman Costa. “The Intertie will deliver more water to our farmers to help put people back to work and get our economy going again. I have repeatedly pressed the Administration to do more to address the immediate needs of the Valley as we work on long-term solutions to the water crisis. I am pleased that the Interior Department is responding to these efforts. While this announcement is good news, the fact still remains that our farmers need a minimum allocation of 40 percent to make it through the year. I will continue to push the Administration to increase the flow of water to our Valley.“As I have said many times, we need to get the pumps turned on and get water to our farmers,\” said Congressman Cardoza. “Until we obtain long-term solutions to this regulatory drought, we must also pursue all practical means of delivering irrigation water to those in need. I have worked hard over the past year to get the Intertie built and I am pleased to see this real-world solution finally bearing fruit. … “
Read more of this press release by clicking here.
Statement By Thomas W. Birmingham from Westlands on Department of the Interior Allocation Announcement
Posted by: Maven on March 19, 2010 at 6:55 amFrom California Ag Network, this press release from Westlands Water District:
“Fresno, Calif., (March 19, 2010) : Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar today announced an increased allocation of water for south-of-Delta Central Valley Project agricultural water service contractors to 25 percent of their contract. Westlands Water District is very grateful to Secretary Salazar, the Commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation Mike Connor and the other members of the Obama Administration who have been working to bring this relief to the people who live and work on the westside of the San Joaquin Valley. The availability of these additional supplies will enable many farmers to put some of their lands back into production, creating jobs and helping to restore the economic health of the San Joaquin Valley.
We hope the allocation will increase further in the months ahead, and we are encouraged by Secretary Salazar’s announcement that Reclamation will accelerate its analysis of potential increases to the allocation. We realize that Secretary Salazar and his colleagues face a difficult task in balancing Reclamation’s responsibility to deliver water to the farms and cities served by the Project and their responsibility to protect species under the Endangered Species Act. Secretary Salazar’s personal involvement in these issues demonstrates his genuine interest in helping find a solution to this crisis.
Westlands also thanks Senator Dianne Feinstein for her continued efforts on behalf of westside farmers. Her leadership and the strong, consistent support from Representative Dennis Cardoza, Representative Jim Costa, and the other members of the valley delegation, were critically important to securing these additional supplies. … “
Continue reading this press release by clicking here.
Large increase in CVP water supplies
Posted by: Maven on March 18, 2010 at 7:24 amFrom the Western Farm Press:
“The Bureau of Reclamation has significantly increased water supplies for Central Valley Project (CVP) water contractors.
For agricultural water service contractors north of the Delta, the water supply forecast increases from 5 percent to 50 percent, and the water supply forecast for Municipal and Industrial (M&I) water service contractors north of the Delta increases from 55 percent to 75 percent. For agricultural water service contractors south of the Delta, the water supply forecast increases from 5 percent to 25 percent, while the water supply forecast for M&I users south of the Delta increases from 55 percent to 75 percent of historic use.
Plus, the Class 2 water supply forecast for Friant Division contractors increases from 0 to 10 percent; the Class 1 water supply forecast for Friant Division contractors remains at 100 percent. … “
Continue reading this article from the Western Farm Press by clicking here.
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