A new study from the Center for Western Weather and Water Extremes (CW3E) at Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego finds that improved weather and water forecasts could help California gain more value from existing reservoirs and help meet a new water supply target.
A new study from the Center for Western Weather and Water Extremes (CW3E) at Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego finds that improved weather and water forecasts could help California gain more value from existing reservoirs and help meet a new water supply target.
The study, led by Scripps economist Tom Corringham and staff researcher Denali Pinto, estimates that a reservoir operation system co-led by Scripps, state, federal and local water authorities could save the state between $100 million and $200 million per year in the form of added water available to meet agricultural, urban and household needs. Corringham said that ripple effects ranging from recreation enhancements to recreation, power generation, enriched fishery stocks, and improved flood risk management make that a conservative estimate.
“California’s water challenge will require many different solutions,” said Corringham. “Our research shows that smarter operation of existing reservoirs could make a meaningful contribution.”
Read More at: University of California San Diego
Spillway at Lake Mendocino's Coyote Dam. (Photo Credit: Calif. DWR)
