The manual snow survey taken at Phillips Station in the Sierra Nevada today revealed a water content of 97% of historical average – a strong showing, but not strong enough to significantly alleviate the water deficits of the past four years of drought.

The California Department of General Services today kicked off its new Water-Smart Renovation project in Capitol Park with a mulching demonstration on the East steps of the Capitol. The comprehensive plan, which includes turf removal and numerous water efficiency measures, is part of DGS’ efforts under Save Our Water’s “Fix it For Good” campaign.

The California Department of Water Resources and the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation on Monday requested a 60-day continuance in proceedings before the State water Resources Control Board regarding the California WaterFix water rights change petition. The agencies cited a need for more time to resolve opposition concerns.

On Tuesday, an environmental coalition opposed to the tunnels announced it had submitted its own request to the State Water Board, seeking to dismiss the entire change petition as incomplete.

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The Assembly Water, Parks and Wildlife Committee Tuesday passed AB 1588 (Mathis), an ACWA-supported bill that would facilitate low-interest loans and grants to eligible homeowners for drinking water needs and wastewater treatment. The bill now heads to the Assembly Appropriations Committee.

Legislation aimed at curbing excessive water use during droughts cleared the Senate Natural Resources and Water Committee on Tuesday. SB 814 by Sen. Jerry Hill (D-San Mateo) now heads to the Senate Judiciary Committee.

In separate March 24 letters sent by U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) and a Republican delegation in the House of Representatives led by Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy (CA-23), President Barack Obama was asked to direct federal officials to increase pumping in the Sacramento-San Joaquin River.

The State Water Resources Control Board is set to host a public workshop on April 20 to discuss potential modifications to the current Emergency Regulation for Statewide Urban Water Conservation in light of increased precipitation and improved drought conditions in some areas. ACWA members are strongly encouraged to attend the workshop and provide written comments by April 14.