CONSERVATION CORNER

DROUGHT BUSTER? YOU BET! GUSHING WELLS? MAYBE NOT!

There's no question about it. Anytime you get 29" of precipitation at the dam in four days, it will almost always end a drought. To date this winter, we have now received 56" of precipitation at the dam. Because the long-term season average is 37", we are assured of above average rainfall for the first time in 7 years. But, will the valley's wells be brimming with water this summer? Maybe not!

Unlike lakes which are filled with surface runoff, groundwater recharge is a much more methodical process. First, typically less than 10% of precipitation measured in rain gauges actually percolates into the soil. The rest is lost to runoff, evaporation and plants. Second, groundwater movement is usually measured in feet per month. Thus, we may not see the full effect of this winter in our wells until mid-summer or later. And with the six previous winters delivering below average rainfall, a single wet year may not provide enough recharge to ensure full recovery for the valley's wells. Nonetheless, you can bet that DWP and CSD will be watching the wells closely, so we can keep you informed. However, we will probably continue to request that everyone use water efficiently for some time into the future. Let's face it, we live in an arid region where water conservation should be a habit.

WATER
COMMUNITY RESOURCE, COMMUNITY SOLUTION

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