Streamflow forecasts in the Humboldt Basin suggest that April-July streamflow volumes this year could dip below previous minimums for some points. This is represented on the forecast charts where the red (period of record minimum line) overlaps the forecast spread (rainbow bar). In some cases, such as the Marys River, Lamoille Creek, and the Humboldt River near Carlin, the 50% exceedance forecast is equal to or less than the previous minimums. With dry conditions this spring its unlikely observed volumes will reach the 50% exceedance forecasts so these points are most likely to see record low flows this year. A water supply presentation provided May 14th by the NRCS to the Humboldt River Basin Water Authority may be of interest to Humboldt River water users.
Drought Impacts Increase Across California-Nevada and Concern for Wildfire Potential Grows
This Drought Status Update is issued in partnership between the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the California-Nevada Applications Program, a NOAA RISA team, and the Western Regional Climate Center at the Desert Research Institute to communicate the current state of drought conditions in California-Nevada based on recent conditions and the upcoming forecast. NIDIS and its partners will issue future Drought Updates as conditions evolve.
Click here to access the full drought update.
Division of Water Resources to hold workshops on proposed regulations
The Division of Water Resources has announced that it will hold a public workshops on June 16th to solicit comments from interested persons on proposed new regulations new regulations relating to administrative hearings before the State Engineer and on June 18th on proposed new regulations relating to applications for extensions of time to file a proof of construction of works and proof of beneficial use.
Click here for the proposed regulations relating to administrative hearings before the State Engineer and how to participate in the June 16th hearing. Click here for the proposed regulations relating to applications for extensions of time to file a proof of construction of works and proof of beneficial use and how to participate in the June 18th hearing.
Latest NRCS Nevada Water Supply Outlook Report is now online
Click here to see the Natural Resources Conservation Service’s April 1st snow survey and streamflow forecasts.
Water Banking and Conservation Bills to be heard April 5th
AB354 and AB356 will be heard by the Assembly Natural Resources Committee on Monday April 5th beginning at 4:00pm. AB354 authorizes the creation of water banks and AB356 creates a water conservation program for water rights that are used for irrigation. CNRWA is concerned that these bills could result in harm member counties as they undermine prior appropriation and facilitate out-of-basin transfers favoring development in urban areas at the expense of agriculture. The State Engineer is working to prepare amendments to both of the bills to acknowledge the discussions and concerns expressed by stakeholders. However, the amendments have not yet been made available.
Click here for information on how to provide public testimony during the hearing and/or written comments.
Water Bank and Conservation Bills introduced in the Nevada Legislature
Assembly Bill 354 and AB356 were introduced in the Assembly Ways and Means Committee on Monday March 22nd. Both bills were requested by the Division of Water Resources. AB354 authorizes the creation and sets forth the authority and duties of certain water banks and requires the State Engineer to submit a biennial report to the Legislature related to water banks. AB356 creates and sets forth the requirements for the Program for the Conservation of Water and creates the Account for Purchasing and Retiring Water Rights and authorizes the State Engineer to purchase and retire certain water rights with money from the Account. Neither bill has been scheduled for a hearing.
