Water

Unlike a year ago, water storage is above average. Whether the year is wet or dry, though, remains uncertain despite El Niño conditions.

Recent federal data shows that the water supply in Redding, California had around three times the recommended level of toxic chemicals in the water. But that data was taken out of context, and the city’s water supply is safe, according to officials.

Jackson County has seen fewer violations of water laws this year among cannabis growers. The state water agency chalks that up to increased enforcement and education.

A discrimination complaint filed by Native American tribes and environmental justice groups alleges that California has failed to protect water quality in the Bay-Delta. The EPA is investigating.

Oregon lawmakers recently approved legislation allowing the state’s water resources department to pursue immediate court relief over water use violations that cause irreparable harm.

On Wednesday, Jackson County commissioners voted to request a drought declaration from Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek. Despite average precipitation and above average snowpack, the county is still considered to be in moderate drought.

Even during epic floods, California is trying to prepare for the next drought by capturing water from this year's epic winter storms.

During the final statewide snow survey of the year, researchers at Phillips Station near Lake Tahoe recorded a snow depth of nearly five feet. That’s 241% of the May 1 average for this area.

After weeks of rain, the long-dry Tulare Lake is rising from the San Joaquin Valley floor, endangering farms, towns, livelihoods. Now record snow on the Sierra Nevada is melting. Will the Central Valley be ready?

California ended its voluntary statewide target, triggering concerns from experts that many water supplies remain depleted. Other drought measures remain in place.

Last week, Governor Gavin Newsom issued an executive order aimed at capturing more precipitation from recent storms and storing it in the state’s groundwater basins.

State officials say the urgency to store more water has vanished as storms swell reservoirs. The reversal is a victory for environmentalists, but they say the damage to salmon and native fish is already done.