Dinuba, CA – Although snowpack was below average this year within the Kings River watershed, spring runoff provided Alta Irrigation District (District) with enough water for a limited water run. The District relies on water supply information from state and local agencies when planning for water run. According to Bulletin 120 from the California Department of Water Resources (DWR), Kings River runoff is projected to end at nearly forty (40) percent of average. DWR’s water supply projections fell over 40 points since release of its first report in February. If dry weather continues for the remainder of the year, total runoff volume for the Kings River may be in the top five driest events.

When dry weather conditions are present, water run start and duration are influenced by May runoff. Currently, the District has water available for a 4-week water run, but more information is needed to determine a start date. The 2013 water run was the last time the District experienced similar water conditions – that water run lasted about thirty-five (35) days and started the last week of June. So, visit the District’s website over the coming weeks for updates about this year’s water run.