Scott River Eases Groundwater Restrictions Amid Improving Conditions

In a significant development for water users in the Scott River watershed, California water officials have announced a suspension of groundwater curtailments, offering relief to local farmers and ranchers. This decision comes as river flows show promising signs of recovery, though officials remain cautious about fully lifting all restrictions.

The State Water Resources Control Board has issued an addendum to its previous curtailment orders, allowing for the resumption of groundwater pumping under specific conditions. This move is based on several encouraging factors:

1. An upward trend in flows at the United States Geological Survey (USGS) Fort Jones gauge
2. Favorable precipitation and flow forecasts
3. Uncertain water demand estimates

While this suspension provides much-needed flexibility for water users, it comes with important caveats:

• Groundwater users must notify the State Water Board staff via email upon resuming diversions
• All diversions must cease if the flow at the USGS Fort Jones gauge drops to or below the minimum flow requirement (e.g., 33 cubic feet per second for September)

Surface Water Restrictions Remain in Place

It’s crucial to note that surface water diversions in the Scott River watershed remain curtailed at this time. However, the Board is considering the possibility of expanding the suspension to include surface water rights.

To facilitate this decision-making process, surface water diverters interested in resuming irrigation are required to submit specific information to the State Water Board by September 9, 2024, including:

• Certification of efficient water use practices
• Estimated water diversion amounts for each remaining week in September
• Associated water rights for the desired surface water diversion

Erik Ekdahl, Deputy Director of the Division of Water Rights, emphasized the tentative nature of this decision. The State Water Board will continue to closely monitor flows, forecasts, and watershed conditions to determine if further adjustments to curtailments are appropriate.