The California State Water Board has issued new orders restricting water use in the Scott River watershed. This comes as river levels have dropped below minimum flow requirements needed to protect fish and the environment.
Key points to know:
- Both surface water and groundwater rights are being curtailed (restricted), except for essential uses.
- Water can still be used for basic health and safety needs, firefighting, minimal livestock watering, and some pre-approved local water conservation plans.
- Most water users must stop diverting water immediately, unless they qualify for an exception.
- Water users need to fill out an online form confirming they are following the order. However, those under evacuation orders due to the Shelly Fire have extra time to respond.
- The restrictions were delayed last week due to the wildfire, but are now needed as river flows continue to decline.
- The fire is now more contained and most evacuation orders have been lifted.
- Water users can apply for limited exceptions to continue some water use for critical needs.
- The goal is to protect river flows until water supply conditions improve, likely when fall rains arrive.
The Water Board recognizes the challenges posed by the active wildfire. They’ve extended deadlines for those evacuated and emphasized that water can still be used for firefighting efforts.
Water users are encouraged to check the Water Board’s website for more details and updates as the situation evolves. The restrictions will be lifted once river flows improve sufficiently.
https://www.waterboards.ca.gov/waterrights/water_issues/programs/drought/scott_shasta_rivers/scott_2024addendums.html
Order WR 2024-0024-DWR (Order Imposing Water Right Curtailment and Requiring Reporting for Surface Water Rights in the Scott River Watershed); and Order WR 2024-0025-DWR (Order Imposing Water Right Curtailment and Requiring Reporting for Adjudicated Groundwater Rights and Known Groundwater Diversions Associated with Parcels Listed in Attachment A in the Scott River Watershed).
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