Calendar year 2013 was the driest year on record for much of Northern and Central California. Storage in Folsom reservoir is below 20% of its storage capacity and there is no significant rain or snow forecast in the near future. If these conditions continue, in a matter of months the reservoir surface elevation is anticipated to drop to a level that will preclude upstream purveyors from diverting water from the reservoir. Continued drought conditions could significantly limit the City’s ability to divert water from the American River for treatment.
City Council will vote tonight on whether or not to implement Stage 2 of a Water Shortage Contingency Plan. Stage 2 would require all water customers to reduce usage by 20 to 30 percent and adhere to a variety of water conservation provisions. You can find more information about this and other items on tonight’s agenda at the Mayor & Council website.