Newsom issues order to capture, store water ahead of storms
Move is intended to replenish above-ground and groundwater storage that remains depleted after multiple years of drought
– Gov. Gavin Newsom issued an executive order Friday to maximize the capture and storage of excess water from an incoming atmospheric river expected to bring significant rainfall and mountain snow to Northern California, according to a press release from the governor’s office.
The order directs the Department of Water Resources and other state agencies to take action to divert and store additional water from the storm, including in the San Luis Reservoir south of the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. The move is intended to replenish above-ground and groundwater storage that remains depleted after multiple years of drought.
“It is more important than ever that we maximize every opportunity to recharge our groundwater supplies,” Newsom said. “As we anticipate rain and snow in Northern California, we are also preparing to use every last drop to boost our water supply for communities and farms throughout the state. By storing these stormwaters, we are creating a literal rainy day fund to help us recover from a multi-year drought and prepare for our hotter, drier future.”
Storm forecast and water supply concerns
The National Weather Service forecasts a moderate to strong atmospheric river beginning Friday and continuing into next week. Prolonged periods of rain and snow are expected, with the potential for flash flooding and rising creeks, rivers, and streams.
Above-average water years in 2023 and 2024 have helped replenish California’s reservoirs, but multi-year drought conditions continue to affect communities with vulnerable water supplies, agriculture, and the environment. The Department of Water Resources conducted its second snow survey of the season Friday, showing a snowpack well below average.
The latest climate projections indicate California could see a 10% reduction in its water supply by 2040 due to hotter and drier weather. State officials say the increasing frequency of extreme weather, including wildfires, underscores the need for continued adaptation efforts to maintain water resiliency.
Executive order aims to maximize groundwater recharge
The executive order removes regulatory barriers for local and regional agencies seeking to use existing state laws to maximize groundwater recharge. It builds on a 2023 executive order supporting groundwater replenishment efforts during last year’s winter storms, as well as subsequent legislation codifying those efforts into law.
The order also directs the Department of Water Resources and other agencies to ensure they are taking full advantage of winter storms to boost water storage. While some Southern California reservoirs remain at high capacity, officials say additional water storage in other reservoirs and replenished aquifers will help sustain future water supplies.
State investments in water storage and resiliency
California has invested more than $9 billion in water supply projects over the past three years. In 2024, the state reported its first increase in groundwater storage since 2019, which officials attribute to state and local efforts to capture more stormwater.
Since 2019, Newsom has allocated $1.6 billion for flood preparedness and response, part of a $7.3 billion investment package for water resilience. Previous state actions have included:
- Expanding groundwater recharge by 1.6 million acre-feet through executive orders and legislation.
- Streamlining groundwater recharge permits to allow for 1.2 million acre-feet of recharge.
- Investing in 67 stormwater projects to capture more water during major storms.
- Setting a goal to expand annual groundwater recharge by 500,000 acre-feet.
- Advancing infrastructure projects, including the Sites Reservoir, which will store up to 1.5 million acre-feet of water, and the Delta Conveyance Project, designed to improve water movement and access for 27 million Californians.
The state has also launched new data tools to track groundwater recharge efforts, conducting 16,000 miles of geophysical surveys and developing models to help local communities manage water resources.
Emergency response and preparation
State officials are deploying resources and personnel to communities in Northern California ahead of the storm system. Swift water rescue teams and additional fire engines have been sent to El Dorado, Nevada, and Glenn counties, with more resources expected as conditions develop.
On Thursday, Newsom directed the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services to coordinate with local agencies to provide emergency support. Residents are urged to take precautions ahead of the storm and stay informed.
For preparedness tips and updates, visit ready.ca.gov.
Too little too late for Governor Scumbag. Taxpayers have invested BILLIONS of dollars to fix the water issues and what do we get… empty dams, empty fire hydrants, people hired based on the color of their skin or what is in their pants. NewScum, worth about 17 million dollars. Just built a new mansion for himself.
Too little too late for Governor Scumbag. Taxpayers have invested BILLIONS of dollars to fix the water issues and what do we get… empty dams, empty fire hydrants, people hired based on the color of their skin or what is in their pants. NewScum, worth about 17 million dollars. Just built a new mansion for himself.